Toe pain can make standing, walking, and other daily activities uncomfortable. The big toe is especially important because it helps support balance and movement. Pain can develop from an injury or a problem affecting the joint. Arthritis can cause stiffness and discomfort at the base of the big toe, making walking more difficult. Gout can also affect this joint when uric acid crystals build up and trigger painful inflammation. Other causes include an ingrown toenail, a fracture, or a bunion. A bunion forms when the bones at the base of the big toe shift out of alignment.

Sports and repeated stress can also lead to toe pain. Turf toe occurs when the big toe bends upward too far or becomes jammed. Running and repeated jumping can place added stress on this joint. Another problem is sesamoiditis, which involves irritation around the small bones beneath the big toe. This condition can affect runners and dancers. Toe fractures can occur after kicking a hard object, dropping something heavy on the foot, or repeatedly stressing the toe. A podiatrist can evaluate how toe pain affects foot movement, balance, and the way a patient walks.

Podiatric care can focus on movement problems that contribute to discomfort in the toe and nearby joints. A podiatrist can examine the foot, ankle, and lower leg to determine whether limited motion or poor joint mechanics are adding stress. Treatment can include gentle joint mobilization, guided stretching, and strengthening exercises when appropriate for the cause. A podiatrist can also assess walking patterns and determine whether movement elsewhere in the lower body is affecting the foot. Severe pain, recurring symptoms, or difficulty completing daily activities deserves careful evaluation. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. 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 contact our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Trail running can be peaceful, exciting, and demanding on your feet. The right trail-running shoes can improve comfort and control when pavement gives way to dirt. Road-running shoes can work on a smooth park path, but they are not built for loose gravel, roots, or sharp rocks. Trail shoes have deeper tread for grip, stronger materials for protection, and a firmer base for stability. Some also have a rock plate, which is a thin layer inside the sole that shields the foot from pointed objects. It is important to choose a shoe that matches the ground you expect to cover.

Fit matters as much as trail type. Your toes need room to spread, yet your heel should stay secure on climbs and descents. A shoe that is too short can press the toes against the front, especially when running downhill. A loose shoe can let the foot slide and create painful rubbing. Cushioning should feel comfortable without making the shoe unstable. Heel-to-toe drop means the height difference between the heel and forefoot. A podiatrist can explain which drop, support level, and shoe shape best fit your feet and running style.

Light-trail shoes suit packed dirt and well-kept paths. Rugged-trail shoes provide more grip and protection on rocky or muddy routes. Off-trail models are built for rough ground where stability matters most. No shoe prevents every injury, so notice pain, numbness, or repeated blisters. A podiatrist can examine your feet, study how you run, and identify problems that affect shoe choice. The foot doctor can also recommend inserts made for your needs and guide a safe return to running after an injury. Bring your current running shoes because their wear pattern can offer useful clues. If you have foot pain after trail running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment tips and guidance on what shoes to purchase.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Aging feet deserve a little extra care and attention, especially because foot problems can become more common as we get older. Changes in the feet may affect comfort, balance, and mobility, making everyday activities more difficult. Common concerns include arthritis, bunions, and neuropathy, while dry skin may become cracked and toenails may gradually become thicker. Swelling can also develop and make shoes feel uncomfortable. A podiatrist can also provide helpful guidance and identify concerns before they become more serious.

With age, several natural changes can affect the health of the feet. The skin may become thinner and less flexible, while the natural cushioning under the feet may decrease. Vision changes or difficulty bending and reaching the feet can make routine foot care more challenging. As a result, thick toenails, small cuts, or other concerns may go unnoticed.

Certain factors can make foot problems more likely. Shoes that do not fit properly may cause discomfort and affect stability, while worn soles can reduce traction. Loose footwear and uneven walking surfaces may also increase the chance of slipping or falling. Limited mobility, diabetes, and neuropathy can create additional concerns. A simple daily routine can make a meaningful difference. Gently wash and dry your feet, apply moisturizer to dry areas while avoiding the spaces between the toes, and wear supportive shoes that fit comfortably. Keeping walking areas clear can also help create a safer environment.

A podiatrist can provide personalized care to help keep aging feet healthy and comfortable. During an examination, the podiatrist may review your symptoms, examine your skin and toenails, and check circulation, sensation, and the way you walk. Treatment depends on your individual needs, and may include wound care, orthotics, or exercises to improve strength and stability. If you have foot pain or notice other changes in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

If you need your feet checked, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Toenail fungus develops when fungi infect a toenail and begin changing its color, thickness, or texture. The infection usually starts near the edge or corner of the nail and can spread across it. Signs include yellow or white discoloration, thickening, and brittle or crumbly edges. The nail can also become difficult to trim. In more advanced cases, it can lift away from the nail bed or break. Pain is not always present at first. However, a thickened nail can press against the inside of a shoe and make walking uncomfortable.

The fungi linked to athlete’s foot cause many toenail-fungus infections. They grow well in warm, dark, and damp places. The infection from athlete’s foot can spread to a toenail or from one nail to another. Risk factors include damaged nails, sweaty feet, and wearing tight or non-breathable shoes. Shared areas like swimming pools and changing rooms can also expose feet to fungus. Toenail fungus can spread between people through direct contact or shared surfaces. Several other nail problems can resemble a fungal infection, so getting the correct diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can examine the affected nail and determine whether fungus is responsible for the changes. When the diagnosis is uncertain, testing a small nail sample can help confirm the cause. Treatment can involve antifungal medication applied to the nail or prescription antifungal tablets for more severe infections. Toenails grow slowly, so a clear, healthy-looking nail can take many months to replace the damaged nail. A podiatrist can also monitor progress and address thick or painful nails that interfere with shoes or walking. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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