Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out as the toe shifts inward. They often result from genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, flat feet, or arthritis. Bunions are more common in women, likely due to fashion footwear like high heels and pointed shoes. Over time, the misalignment worsens, leading to pain and inflammation. Symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the foot, swelling, redness, soreness, and limited movement of the big toe. It may feel like a dull, aching pain that worsens with walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist may suggest shoe modifications, padding, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery, called a bunionectomy, may be necessary to realign the toe joint.  If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Gregory Kranzusch, DPM of Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in St. Charles, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet are common during late pregnancy and are often caused by edema, which is the buildup of fluid in the lower limbs due to increased pressure from the growing uterus. However, swelling can also signal more serious conditions. Preeclampsia may cause sudden or severe swelling along with high blood pressure. Peripartum cardiomyopathy, a rare form of heart failure, and deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot in the leg, are medical emergencies. A podiatrist can help monitor swelling, recommend supportive footwear, suggest exercises, and identify signs that need urgent care. If you notice unusual or painful foot swelling during your pregnancy, it is strongly suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist for expert guidance and relief options.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Gregory Kranzusch, DPM from Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in St. Charles, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can interfere with your ability to walk comfortably and stay active. It often develops from overuse, wearing poor footwear, or an underlying condition such as plantar fasciitis. The discomfort may appear gradually or suddenly, especially after periods of rest. Choosing supportive shoes with proper cushioning can reduce strain on the heel. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and the bottom of the foot may also help improve flexibility and ease tension. Resting the foot is a common first step when pain appears. In some cases, custom orthotics or other conservative treatments may be necessary to address the root cause. Persistent or worsening heel pain should not be ignored, as it can affect your balance and overall mobility. If heel pain is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Gregory Kranzusch, DPM of Foot and Ankle Center of St. Charles County. 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 our office located in St. Charles, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.