Items filtered by date: April 2025

Pain in the big toe can stem from medical conditions that affect the joints, bones, tendons, or soft tissue. One common cause of big toe pain is arthritis, which can lead to stiffness and swelling in the joint that connects the big toe to the foot. This joint, called the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint, plays a major role in walking and bearing weight. Gout, bunions, and sesamoiditis can also trigger inflammation and discomfort in the big toe. Trauma from sports injuries, including turf toe or a toe fracture, can result in lingering toe pain. Bursitis, the inflammation of fluid-filled sacs that cushion the MTP joint, may also contribute to tenderness and restricted motion. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of your big toe pain and determine the proper treatment plan. If you are experiencing this type of pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Cathy Coker, DPM of Arch Advantage Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

An ankle sprain injury occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, typically due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. This injury is frequent in sports and physical activities but can also result from uneven surfaces or wearing unsupportive footwear. The most commonly affected ligaments are on the outside of the ankle, which are more vulnerable when the foot rolls inward. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. To diagnose an ankle sprain, a podiatrist will perform a physical examination and assess the range of motion, stability, and tenderness. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI scan, may be used to rule out fractures or more serious ligament damage. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Cathy Coker, DPM from Arch Advantage Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

When a bunion becomes very large and the front of the foot curves inward sharply, a condition called metatarsus adductus, walking can become painful and shoes may no longer fit comfortably. In more serious cases like this, a special type of surgery can help. Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses tiny cuts and small tools to realign the bones of the big toe and reduce the bump. This approach can also help correct the inward curve of the foot. Because the incisions are small, there is usually less swelling, less pain, and a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery. If you have a painful bunion along with a curved foot shape, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to discuss if this surgical option is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Cathy Coker, DPM of Arch Advantage Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Dry skin on the feet and cracked heels can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Lack of moisture is a common cause, as the feet have fewer oil glands compared to other parts of the body. Standing for long periods, wearing open-backed shoes, and walking barefoot can increase the risk of dryness and thickened skin. Risk factors include aging, obesity, and prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, eczema, and thyroid disorders, can also contribute to excessive dryness and cracking. If left untreated, deep cracks may develop, increasing the risk of infection. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat this uncomfortable condition, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Cathy Coker, DPM from Arch Advantage Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Choosing the right footwear for weightlifting is essential for maintaining foot and ankle stability during heavy lifts. Weightlifting shoes differ from regular sneakers by offering a firm, non-compressible sole and an elevated heel. This enhances ankle mobility and allows for a deeper squat position, while keeping the foot stable. A proper lifting shoe minimizes excessive movement, which reduces the risk of rolling an ankle or placing undue pressure on the toes. Standard athletic shoes with soft soles can create instability, increasing the likelihood of foot fatigue and misalignment. Shoes with a secure strap system can further support the midfoot, preventing unnecessary shifting during lifts. People with existing foot concerns, such as flat feet or limited ankle mobility, may benefit from custom orthotics within their weightlifting shoes to ensure proper alignment. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and gait mechanics to help determine which footwear best promotes stability and reduces strain on your feet. If you experience foot pain after a weight-lifting workout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Cathy Coker, DPM from Arch Advantage Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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