Dropping a heavy object on your toe, or stubbing it against a piece of furniture, are common reasons to experience a broken toe. Pain is generally the first symptom that is noticed, and it can be difficult to walk. Additionally, many patients notice their toe is swollen and bruised, and it is often painful to wear shoes. The affected foot may feel better when it is elevated, and this can help to diminish a portion of the swelling. As the healing process occurs, it may be beneficial to perform stretches and exercises that can promote rebuilding and strength. Toe curls can be effective in strengthening the toes, in addition to the overall foot. This is done by curling the toes, followed by stretching them back as far as possible. Many patients choose to pick up a towel from the floor with their toes, which can help to strengthen the top of the foot. If you would like to know how to perform additional exercise after a broken toe has healed, please consult with a podiatrist. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are a foot deformity that often develop gradually, leading to pain and changes in toe alignment. The most noticeable symptom of a bunion is a hard, bony bump on the side of the big toe that may become red, swollen, and tender from pressure inside shoes. As the bunion progresses, the big toe shifts inward toward the second toe, sometimes crossing over or under it, which can cause stiffness and difficulty in moving the joint. Pain at the base of the toe is common, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Bunions may also lead to irritation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac, resulting in bursitis, or displacement of the sesamoid bones under the big toe joint. Causes of bunions include inherited foot structure, arthritis, and frequent use of shoes that lack adequate support or have a narrow, pointed toe box, such as high heels or flip-flops. If you are experiencing pain from a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Every foot type requires the right support to stay healthy and comfortable. People with flat feet often need firm arch supports that help distribute weight evenly and prevent excess strain. Those with high arches usually benefit from cushioned supports that absorb shock and reduce pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. Individuals with normal arches are best served by moderate support that maintains balance and stability. While store-bought inserts may offer temporary relief, they are not designed for the unique structure of your feet. Custom orthotics created by a podiatrist provide precise correction, improved alignment, and long-lasting comfort. They can also help prevent problems, such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and joint pain. If you are experiencing discomfort or want to protect your foot health, visiting a podiatrist for an evaluation and discussing custom orthotics is suggested.

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts are not just for cushioning the soles; they are about supporting the foundation of our body - our feet. The advantages extend far beyond immediate relief from discomfort. These personalized solutions, that Our doctors can prescribe, can significantly impact a person’s posture, alleviate pain in various parts of the body, and even enhance athletic performance.

As we lace up our shoes each day, having the right support can make a world of difference. Custom orthotics are like tailored suites for our feet, offering a bespoke solution to address our unique biomechanical needs. They provide stability where it is lacking, correct imbalances, and ensure that every step is a confident and pain-free one. 

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts offer long-term health benefits. By addressing issues such as overpronation or underpronation, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, etc. orthotics can help prevent injuries and mitigate the progression of existing conditions. It’s an investment not just in the present, but in the future health of your feet and consequently, your overall well-being. 

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.