It is generally easy to notice a bunion when it has developed on your foot. A bunion is a bump that forms on the side of the big toe that can make wearing shoes difficult for the majority of the day. A common reason why bunions can form is from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in.  Additionally, they may form from genetic reasons. If the bunion grows, it can change the shape of the foot, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. Ballet dancers are often at risk of developing bunions because of the constant stress the feet endure while practicing specific poses. Pregnancy can lead to the formation of bunions, which may come from hormonal changes that can affect the feet. Mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the bunion, and this can be helpful in protecting it against friction that can come from wearing shoes. If you notice a bump has formed on your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and offer you correct treatment methods.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

If your child has a red, blistering rash on their feet, a sore throat, and a fever, they may be suffering from hand, foot, and mouth (HFM) disease. HFM is a viral infection common in early childhood. It is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids. The blisters associated with HFM disease are typically red with a small, fluid-filled bubble on top, although they can also be flat. These blisters may peel, leaving behind ulcers. HFM blisters often appear on the soles of the feet. While HFM usually clears up on its own, your child may experience pain or discomfort from HFM blisters on their feet. Keeping their feet clean and applying antibiotic ointments over popped blisters can help prevent infection. If your child has a rash or blisters on their feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet are often referred to as the foundation of the body. Unfortunately, they can undergo stress throughout the day from completing daily activities. Research has shown it can help to keep the feet limber when stretching techniques are frequently performed. Many stretches take a few minutes to complete, however the benefits are worth the wait. When the calves are stretched it often positively affects the heel and the bottom of the foot and their flexibility. This can be accomplished by sitting down with your feet stretched out before you, slightly grabbing the toes if you are able, all while keeping the toes in an upward position. then you can rest and repeat. Another great stretch is accomplished when a towel is placed around the feet, and you gently pull the feet toward you. Many patients enjoy the benefits of performing a foot roll. This is done by rolling the sole of the foot on a tennis or golf ball, and an effective stretch can be felt in the entire foot. There are numerous foot stretches that can be practiced daily, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you would like to learn more on how to implement new stretches into your daily routine.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.