Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
A swollen big toe can develop due to several underlying conditions, each leading to discomfort and pain. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing inflammation and swelling. A toe fracture, which can happen due to trauma or accidents, may also result in swelling as the body reacts to the injury. Bunions are bony growths that develop on the joint at the base of the big toe and can cause the toe to swell and become misaligned. Gout, a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, is another common cause of a swollen big toe, often leading to intense pain and redness. If your big toe is swollen or you know you have any of the above foot conditions, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chico, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Fall prevention is essential for seniors, as falling can lead to serious injuries that impact their health and independence. Regular fitness activities that improve balance, strength, and flexibility can help seniors maintain stability and reduce the risk of falls. An eye exam is essential to ensure that vision problems, which can contribute to falls, are addressed. Seniors should also remove floor clutter and ensure their living space is free from obstacles like rugs or furniture that could cause tripping. Wearing supportive footwear, such as Velcro sneakers, provides better grip and stability compared to loose or high-heeled shoes. These simple yet effective steps can significantly lower the risk of falls, promote safety, and enhance the overall quality of life for seniors. If you are elderly or are caring for a senior citizen, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as part of a healthcare team who can effectively monitor foot health.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Thong V. Truong from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chico, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
