Bunions are a common foot deformity where the joint at the base of your big toe becomes enlarged and shifts outward. This misalignment can lead to a visible bump on the side of the foot and discomfort during daily activities. Early signs of bunions include redness, swelling, thickened skin, and tenderness around the big toe joint. As the condition progresses, pain may worsen, and wearing shoes can become increasingly uncomfortable. Bunions can be caused by genetics, wearing improper footwear like tight or high-heeled shoes, flat feet, or arthritis. The pain can feel like a persistent ache or sharp discomfort when walking or standing for long periods. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the bunion and provide relief through conservative treatments like padding, orthotics, footwear changes, and anti-inflammatory therapies. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropirate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Statesville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Unpleasant foot odor, cracked heels, and changes in skin or nails are common concerns that can signal underlying issues. Foot odor often results from bacteria mixing with sweat, especially in tight or non-breathable shoes. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus can worsen odor and cause scaling, peeling, or thickened nails. Cracked heels, on the other hand, often develop from dry skin, prolonged standing, or wearing open-back shoes. They may start as small splits but can deepen and become painful or infected if not treated. Changes in foot appearance, such as redness, thick nails, or skin irritation, should not be ignored. Good hygiene, moisturizing regularly, and wearing proper footwear can help prevent many of these problems. However, if symptoms continue or become more severe, especially if you have diabetes or circulation issues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert evaluation and treatment.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Some athletes continue to feel ankle pain long after a sprain has healed. This ongoing discomfort can be caused by hidden damage inside the joint, like scar tissue or small tears. When rest, targeted exercises, and other treatments do not bring relief, a procedure called arthroscopic surgery may be helpful. It uses tiny tools and a camera to look inside the ankle and fix the problem without large cuts. This kind of surgery can reduce pain and help athletes get back to their sport more safely and comfortably. If you are still having ankle pain after a past injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to explore the best options for healing, which may include arthroscopic surgery.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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