December 2020

The joint that is affected by a bunion is located on the side of the big toe. A bunion appears as a large, bony protrusion, and it can occur for different reasons. These can consist of genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Common symptoms that are typically associated with bunions can include swelling, redness, and toe pain. Many patients notice that there are corns and calluses that form on top of the bunion. This can be a result of excess friction that is caused by shoes rubbing against the bunion. It is beneficial to wear larger shoes that can accommodate the bunion, as this may provide mild relief. If you notice an abnormal bump on your big toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this ailment and offer you treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot & Ankle. 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 our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Patients who experience gout attacks are aware of the severe and debilitating pain this condition may cause. It is considered to be a form of arthritis and typically affects the joints in the big toe. Some of the symptoms that are generally associated with gout include swelling on or near the affected joints, and it may often feel warm when touched. Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream, which is referred to as hyperuricemia. It may occur from genetic reasons, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These can consist of red meat, shellfish, and drinks that have an elevated sugar content. Additionally, existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and poor kidney function, may play significant roles in developing gout. If you are afflicted with this type of arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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