Many people may attribute foot pain to their shoes, especially if it occurs around their toes. However, there are many causes for foot or toe pain that should be treated by a doctor. If you have pain and notice a bump on your foot or toe, you should make an appointment with a podiatrist in Kenosha, WI for a diagnosis. A small problem can grow into a large medical expense, so it is better to be safe than sorry early on.
Sources of Foot Pain
Foot pain has many causes, including arthritis, deformities, and injuries. Some of the foot problems diagnosed by a podiatrist may include gout, bunions or corns. Diagnosing the source of the issue is the best way to prevent a recurring problem from ever coming back.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis caused when uric acid builds up in joints. Usually, the big toe joint is one of the first places it may be noticed. The joint of the toe will be swollen, red and painful to the touch. If you notice swelling around the toe or ankle joint, you can apply ice to bring down the swelling until you have a chance to see a doctor.
Bunions
A bunion forms when the big toe joint is crooked and the toe is turned inwards slightly. There are many causes for bunions, including arthritis, damaged caused by trauma, or wearing shoes that are too tight around the toes. In some cases, a podiatrist may have even to treat a bunion surgically.
Corns
Corns are caused when dead skin cells build-up due to friction or compression of the bony areas of the toes. They can appear on the tops, sides or even in between the toes and are often caused by shoes that are too tight or wearing socks that bunch around the toes and cause friction. The best way to have corns removed is to go to a professional podiatrist.
It is important to take care of your feet, which includes trimming the toenails properly, wearing the correct size shoes, and seeking treatment for foot problems in a timely fashion.
