Lumps on the toes can develop for several reasons and may vary in size, texture, and level of discomfort. Some lumps grow slowly over time while others appear suddenly after irritation or injury. A common cause is a bunion or bunionette, which forms when the toes shift and creates a bony bump. Ganglion cysts may also appear near the joints or tendons and feel like soft, fluid-filled swellings under the skin. Corns and callouses can sometimes look like small lumps because the skin thickens in response to pressure from shoes. In some cases, a lump may develop from arthritis in the toe joint, which can create bony enlargements that feel firm and tender. Other possibilities include gout deposits, small benign growths, or inflammation of the surrounding tissues. A podiatrist can examine the toe and may use imaging to determine the exact cause of the lump. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include footwear changes, padding, medication, or other corrective care. If you notice a lump on your toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner 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 Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery uses small incisions and specialized instruments to treat certain conditions while reducing disruption to surrounding tissue. Instead of a large surgical opening, the surgeon works through tiny entry points using precise tools and imaging guidance. This approach may lead to less swelling, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activity for some patients. Minimally invasive techniques are sometimes used to correct bunions by reshaping the bone through small openings in the skin. They may also be used to treat certain hammertoe deformities or remove bone spurs that cause joint irritation. Because the incisions are smaller, surrounding muscles and soft tissues may experience less trauma during the procedure. However, not every condition is appropriate for this type of surgery, and proper evaluation is important before treatment is considered. When ongoing foot or ankle pain affects mobility, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to discuss diagnosis and available treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner 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 Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is a thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping by transferring force from the leg to the foot. One key mechanical property of the tendon is strength. The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in the body and can handle high levels of force during daily movement. Another important feature is elasticity, which allows the tendon to stretch slightly and then return to its original shape. This ability helps store and release energy when the foot pushes off the ground. The tendon also has stiffness, which allows it to move force efficiently from the calf muscles to the foot. However, repeated stress or tight muscles can place extra strain on the tendon and lead to injury. If you experience heel or tendon pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, often starts slowly, but can become stubborn, over time. Mild cases may respond to topical care, but thicker, discolored, or spreading infections often need a different approach. Oral treatment is sometimes recommended when multiple nails are involved, the nail is significantly thickened, or previous treatments have failed. These medications work from the inside out, reaching the nail through the bloodstream to target fungus beneath the nail plate. Because nails grow slowly, treatment usually continues for several months while healthy nails replace damaged nails. Oral therapy is not right for everyone and requires proper evaluation, including review of medical history and monitoring, when appropriate. Used correctly, it can improve nail appearance, comfort, and long-term results. If toenail fungus is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

For more information about treatment, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner 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 contact our office located in Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.