April 2023

A bunion is a bony bump that can develop on the side of an individual’s foot. Most commonly, the bunion develops on the inside of the foot near the big toe. However, a bunionette,, or tailor’s bunion, may develop on the outside of the foot near the pinky toes. Patients often ask about what exactly causes a tailor’s bunion. The answer is that there are a wide variety of different nuanced causes of a bunionette. First, a bunionette might develop when the feet do not function properly, causing the metatarsal bones to essentially separate. Second, the structure of the feet may change when an individual engages in new physical activities and sports. Third, bunionettes might also be caused by a hereditary disposition that is passed down through genetics. If you are someone living with a bunionette, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. 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 one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Experiencing heel pain while walking is a common complaint. The three most common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis, bursitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis is when the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue running on the sole from the heels to the toes, becomes inflamed or sustains micro tears. This band supports the arch of the foot and absorbs shock when running, jumping, and walking. Bursitis is the swelling and inflammation of the bursa, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis involves irritation and inflammation of the tendon that runs from the calf muscle to the heel bone. All three conditions may result from overuse or wearing shoes that do not fit properly. For these and other causes of heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people have endured injuries that leave wounds, and this can often affect the feet. Practicing good wound care techniques is essential in having the wound heal properly. Many wounds require the dressing to be changed several times per week, and it is helpful to follow specific procedures to ensure that this is properly done. It can begin with having a bag close by in which the old dressing and gloves can be disposed of. The wound is then cleaned by washing it with lukewarm water. This is followed by applying the new dressing, and making sure it completely covers the wound. If the wound emits an odor, or if the skin surrounding it becomes red and heated, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you on correct wound care treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people take their feet for granted until they begin to hurt. The feet are the foundation and carry the entire weight of the body, making it possible to walk, run, and jump. Having foot cramps can wreak havoc on the day. They can cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to walk. A common reason why foot cramps may happen from wearing shoes that are too tight. This may cause limited movement in the feet, possibly leading to foot and muscle cramps. Dehydration may be another reason why foot cramps may occur. Lack of water may cause the muscles to malfunction, and this may also result in foot cramps. This type of foot pain may be avoided when a routine stretching and exercise regime is practiced. Strong foot muscles help to keep the body balanced, and it is beneficial to avoid overstretching, which may lead to foot fatigue. If you have foot cramps, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer you the correct relief options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.