Items filtered by date: April 2024

If you have a bump forming at the base of your big toe or experience discomfort while wearing certain shoes, you might be dealing with a bunion. This foot deformity, medically known as hallux valgus, develops gradually due to various factors. Included are genetics, wearing tight or high-heeled footwear, rheumatoid arthritis, or Marfan's syndrome, which causes a loosening of joints. Symptoms of a bunion are a noticeable bump, pain, and redness of the big toe. Corns or calluses, limited toe movement, and a burning sensation or numbness may also occur. While initial treatment involves wearing proper footwear, more severe cases may require custom orthotics, toe spreaders, or surgery. A podiatrist can offer guidance on ways to manage symptoms, prevent further complications, and determine if surgery is needed to realign the toe and alleviate pressure on the joint. If you have a bunion that is causing pain or impeding daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor 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 office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space on the inside of the ankle. It typically affects individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive ankle motion or those with foot deformities such as flat feet. Symptoms may include pain, burning, tingling, or numbness along the inner ankle and the sole of the foot. Left untreated, tarsal tunnel syndrome can lead to complications like muscle weakness or atrophy in the foot. Management often involves conservative measures such as rest, orthotic devices, and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate symptoms and reduce nerve compression. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome and provide appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester,  can contribute to pain in the front of the foot. This discomfort is mostly because of natural weight gain and the resulting increase in pressure on the feet. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy cause the ligaments in the body to relax and stretch in preparation for childbirth, which can lead to a spreading of the feet and a decrease in arch support. This combination of factors can strain the forefoot and lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, which results in pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot or heel. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can provide personalized advice on how to manage this pain. Suggestions may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and engaging in gentle foot exercises. If you are pregnant and experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, or unguium, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails, often leading to discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nails. The condition is caused by various types of fungi, primarily dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes or communal bathing areas. Risk factors for toenail fungus include poor hygiene, wearing tight-fitting shoes, walking barefoot in public places, and having a weakened immune system. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include nail scrapings or clippings for laboratory testing. Podiatrists can offer various treatments for toenail fungus, including topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal drugs, laser therapy, and surgical nail removal, in severe cases. If you have signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

When dealing with corns on the feet, it is important to prioritize safe removal techniques, particularly if you have underlying health conditions, like diabetes. Seeking professional help from a podiatrist is essential, especially if the corns are painful or if there are concerns about infection or other complications. A podiatrist may use various methods for safe corn removal, including trimming them with a small knife or applying salicylic acid patches to soften them. These procedures are performed in a controlled medical setting to minimize the risk of infection. Additionally, the podiatrist may address underlying structural issues that can contribute to corn formation, such as bunions or hammer toes. It is important to refrain from attempting corn removal yourself, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation problems. If you have a problem with a corn on the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for its safe removal.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor  will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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