Sesamoiditis causes pain beneath the big toe due to irritation or injury of the sesamoid bones, which are two small, round bones located under the head of the first metatarsal. These tiny bones are embedded in a tendon and assist with weight-bearing and toe movement. When exposed to repetitive stress, direct trauma, or altered foot mechanics, they can become painful, especially during walking or when wearing thin-soled or high-heeled shoes. Sesamoiditis more commonly affects dancers, joggers, and people with high arches or bunions. Symptoms include toe pain that gets worse with pressure, and swelling, warmth, or redness may occur near the joint. A podiatrist can perform an exam to pinpoint areas of tenderness and assess the structure of the foot. Imaging may be used to rule out fractures or other joint conditions. Treatment often involves changes in footwear and the addition of custom orthotics to reduce pressure on the sesamoids. In severe or prolonged cases, surgery may be recommended. If you are experiencing pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Swelling in the feet can result from various factors that affect circulation and fluid balance. Long periods of sitting or standing can lead to fluid buildup due to reduced blood flow, causing discomfort and puffiness. Certain medical conditions, including heart, kidney, or liver disease, can contribute to swelling by affecting the body's ability to regulate fluids. A high salt intake may also cause water retention, leading to noticeable swelling in the lower extremities. Blood clots can obstruct circulation, resulting in one-sided swelling accompanied by pain or redness. Additionally, wearing tight footwear restricts movement and can worsen fluid accumulation. A sedentary lifestyle may also contribute to poor circulation, increasing the risk of swelling. If you notice your feet and ankles are swollen, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's toe is a foot condition where the second toe is longer than the big toe due to a shorter first metatarsal bone. This structural difference can alter weight distribution, placing extra pressure on the ball of the foot. Causes of Morton's toe are primarily genetic, as the condition is inherited. This imbalance can lead to foot problems like calluses, metatarsalgia, and improper arch support. It may also contribute to pain in the ankles, knees, and lower back due to changes in walking mechanics. Relief options include wearing shoes with proper arch support, using orthotic inserts, and choosing footwear with a roomy toe box. If this condition is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you on relief options, including stretching and strengthening exercises that can help improve foot stability. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.