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Arch pain is the term used to describe pin under the arch of the foot. Arch pain is common in people with flat feet. When this occurs it means the person has some inflammation in the mid foot. The arch is supported by a tight band of tissue called the Planter fascia, running from the toes to the heel bone. When this is inflamed it is known as Plantar Fasciitis
Metatarsalgia This is pain across the heads of the metatarsals, otherwise known as the balls of your feet. Often due to a collapse of the transverse arch. A metatarsal pad will often help to reform the arch, giving relief. Sometimes with severe rheumatoid arthritis, where the metatarsals and forefoot is deformed, then surgery is indicated. Seek the advice of one of our Podiatrists/Chiropodists Morton’s metatarsalgia (neuroma) This is pain from pressure on a 3rd and 4th metatarsal heads causing the nerve to become irritated, causing the surrounding tissues to thicken. The pain is worse when narrow tight shoes that press on the toe area are worn. Causes are thought to be wearing tight fitting shoes, wearing high heels over 2 inches. Increased risk: There are certain conditions which increase the risk of developing this:
Treatment
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Bunions
Otherwise known as Hallux valgus, is a bony deformity where the big toe points towards the other toes on the same foot, making the side of the foot stick out. Along with changing the shape of the foot is causes swelling pain and tenderness around the big toe.
Why do bunions occur?
It is believed that there is a family history associated with developing bunions, though wearing badly fitting shoes at the front of the foot is thought to make the condition worse. In some cases rheumatoid arthritis and gout may also be responsible.
How are bunions treated?
We are here to advice you. Please contact us if you wish to see one of our podiatrists.
Non- surgical treatments are tried first:
Hallux rigidus
This is commonly known as arthritis if the big toe. Its main feature is stiffness, so the ability to turn the big toe upwards is lost, and there may be a bony bump on the top of the big toe which may rub on shoes. Sometimes people then walk on the outer side of their foot to relieve the pain, but this often leads to pain in the rest of the foot.
Why does it develop?
It just does! In a few people it may be caused by another medical problem such as an infection or gout.
How can I help?
Managing hallux rigidus
Pain killers can help, such as paracetamol, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Because the toe is more painful when lifted upwards when walking a stiffer soled shoe may be more helpful, so that it does not bend when walking, or a rocker device can be made for you by our team. If the toe still remains painful it can be injected with a steroid mixed with local anaesthetic to reduce the inflammation inside the joint. However this only gives temporary improvement.
If none of the above treatments work then surgery can be an option, however this would need to be discussed with your GP.
Also see:
Plantar Fasciitis
General Foot Conditions and Care
Fungal Nail and Athletes Foot
Please read our disclaimer.
Otherwise known as Hallux valgus, is a bony deformity where the big toe points towards the other toes on the same foot, making the side of the foot stick out. Along with changing the shape of the foot is causes swelling pain and tenderness around the big toe.
Why do bunions occur?
It is believed that there is a family history associated with developing bunions, though wearing badly fitting shoes at the front of the foot is thought to make the condition worse. In some cases rheumatoid arthritis and gout may also be responsible.
How are bunions treated?
We are here to advice you. Please contact us if you wish to see one of our podiatrists.
Non- surgical treatments are tried first:
- Pain killers
- Orthotic devices
- Bunion pads
Hallux rigidus
This is commonly known as arthritis if the big toe. Its main feature is stiffness, so the ability to turn the big toe upwards is lost, and there may be a bony bump on the top of the big toe which may rub on shoes. Sometimes people then walk on the outer side of their foot to relieve the pain, but this often leads to pain in the rest of the foot.
Why does it develop?
It just does! In a few people it may be caused by another medical problem such as an infection or gout.
How can I help?
- Keep fit and active
- Wear shoes that are comfortable and fit your feet
- Don’t get overweight
Managing hallux rigidus
Pain killers can help, such as paracetamol, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Because the toe is more painful when lifted upwards when walking a stiffer soled shoe may be more helpful, so that it does not bend when walking, or a rocker device can be made for you by our team. If the toe still remains painful it can be injected with a steroid mixed with local anaesthetic to reduce the inflammation inside the joint. However this only gives temporary improvement.
If none of the above treatments work then surgery can be an option, however this would need to be discussed with your GP.
Also see:
Plantar Fasciitis
General Foot Conditions and Care
Fungal Nail and Athletes Foot
Please read our disclaimer.