A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe where the joint begins to shift out of place. This change occurs as the top of the toe lean toward the others. This process creates a visible prominence that can become painful. Bunions often develop slowly and may start with…
Bunions are large bony bumps at the base of the big toe. Medically known as hallux valgus, a bunion is a misalignment of the metatarsophalangeal joint, or big toe joint. The misalignment will generally worsen with time if left untreated. The exact cause of bunions is unknown, with genetics seen as a potential cause. High…
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid that forms crystals in the joints. It often affects the big toe, because this joint experiences pressure and tends to be cooler, which encourages crystal formation. Symptoms include sudden severe pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness that can limit movement. Risk factors…
Gout, typically found in diabetic patients, is an unusually painful form of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. The condition typically strikes the big joint on the big toe. It has also been known to strike the knees, elbows, fingers, ankles and wrists—generally anywhere that has a functioning, moving joint….
If you’re suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn’t wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your specialist for treatment and guidance through the healing process.
An avulsion fracture in the foot occurs when a strong pull from a tendon or ligament causes a small piece of bone to separate from the main bone. An avulsion fracture often happens during quick movements, such as twisting the foot or rolling the ankle. It is common among football players, ballet dancers, gymnasts, and…
One out of ten broken bones is reported to be in the feet. When an object crushes, bends, or stretches the bone beyond acceptable ranges, bones break. A break in the foot is either a fracture or a straight break. The location of any break can tell you how the break happened. Toes, for instance,…
An isolated medial malleolar fracture is a break in the inner part of the ankle, at the bony bump on the inside called the medial malleolus. The word isolated means the fracture occurs on its own, without other parts of the ankle being broken. This injury often happens from a sudden twist, fall, or direct…
The ankle is a hinged synovial joint made up of three bones: the tibia (shin bone), the fibula (outer ankle bone), and the talus (between the heel and leg). These three bones are bound, supported, and stabilized by strong, fibrous bands of tissue called ligaments. A break in an ankle bone can be either traumatic or stress related….
Swollen feet and ankles can be a warning sign of diabetes-related foot problems. High blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to poor circulation and fluid buildup in the lower legs. This swelling, called edema, can make shoes feel tight and walking uncomfortable. Diabetes can also cause nerve damage, known as neuropathy, which…
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