Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, while the tip of the toe angles inward toward the other toes. This misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the toe. Symptoms often include redness, tenderness, and a visible bump at the joint. Risk factors for bunions include wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes, particularly high heels, which put pressure on the toes. Genetics can also play a role, as bunions often run in families. Other factors, such as arthritis or foot deformities, can increase the likelihood of developing bunions. To prevent bunions, it is important to wear shoes that fit properly, provide enough toe room, and offer proper arch support. Regularly stretching and strengthening the feet can also help reduce the risk of bunions and alleviate discomfort if they develop. If you have the beginning signs of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief, and additional prevention strategies.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle arthrodesis, or ankle fusion, is a surgical procedure that permanently joins the bones of the ankle joint to eliminate pain and improve stability. It is typically recommended for individuals with severe arthritis, post-traumatic damage, or deformities that make walking difficult. When cartilage wears away, bones rub against each other, causing chronic pain and inflammation. Fusion stops this movement, relieving pain but reducing ankle flexibility. Candidates for ankle arthrodesis often include those with end-stage arthritis, previous injuries, or failed ankle replacements. While traditional open surgery is an option, minimally invasive techniques using small incisions and screws have improved recovery times and reduced complications. Although mobility is somewhat limited after fusion, many patients experience significant pain relief and improved quality of life. If chronic ankle pain is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can determine if ankle arthrodesis is the right solution for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cleft foot, also known as ectrodactyly, is a rare congenital deformity where the middle toes and metatarsals are absent, creating a split appearance. The condition often results in a V-shaped gap in the foot, and the number and placement of toes can vary. It may occur in one or both feet and is sometimes accompanied by similar anomalies in the hands, known as cleft hand. Cleft foot is uncommon, affecting roughly one in 90,000 births. Its exact cause is unknown but is believed to result from genetic mutations, sometimes linked to syndromes like ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia-cleft syndrome, or EEC. Treatment often involves surgical correction to improve functionality and appearance, along with targeted exercises and, in some cases, custom orthotics to aid mobility. If you suspect cleft foot in your newborn, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist as quickly as possible for expert care.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.