A bunion is a structural deformity of the foot that develops at the base of the big toe joint. It occurs when the joint shifts out of alignment, as the big toe leans toward the smaller toes. This change creates a visible bump on the side of the foot that can become painful over time. Bunions often develop gradually and may worsen without proper care. Common causes include genetic foot structure, wearing improper footwear, and repetitive pressure on the forefoot.

Early symptoms of a bunion include mild swelling, redness, and tenderness surrounding the joint. Many individuals notice a burning sensation or numbness in the affected area, especially after long periods of standing or walking. As the condition progresses, the joint may become stiff, and the shape of the foot can begin to change. Shoes may feel tighter, and irritation from friction can lead to additional discomfort. Recognizing these early signs is important for preventing further progression.

Risk factors for bunions include inherited foot mechanics, flat feet, and abnormal gait patterns. Wearing narrow or tight-fitting shoes that crowd the toes can increase pressure on the joint and accelerate deformity. Occupations or activities that place repeated stress on the forefoot may also contribute. Over time, these factors can lead to joint instability and worsening alignment of the big toe.

Managing bunions in the early stages focuses on reducing pressure and improving foot support. Wearing properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box can help minimize irritation. Orthotic support may improve alignment and reduce strain on the joint. Early intervention can slow progression and improve comfort. If you are noticing early stages of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact David K. Morris, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Foot pain can be a sign of arthritis, a condition that causes inflammation and damage within the joints. The feet contain many small joints that work together to support movement and balance, making them vulnerable to arthritic changes. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis are common types that affect the feet. Each type has a different cause, but all can lead to discomfort and reduced mobility if not treated properly.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that develops as cartilage wears down over time. This leads to joint stiffness, pain, and reduced flexibility. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation, swelling, and joint deformity. Psoriatic arthritis is linked to psoriasis and results in joint pain along with skin changes. Each form of arthritis can affect the toes, midfoot, or ankle, depending on the severity and progression.

Symptoms of arthritis in the feet often include joint pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Some individuals notice warmth surrounding the joints or a grinding sensation with movement. Pain may worsen after activity or long periods of rest. Over time, joint damage can lead to changes in foot structure, making it more difficult to wear shoes comfortably or maintain normal activity levels.

Risk factors include aging, autoimmune conditions, and previous joint injuries. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and slow progression. Treatment may involve wearing supportive footwear, orthotics, and medical management to reduce inflammation and improve function. If you have symptoms of arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Foot skin irritation can interfere with daily activities and often signals an underlying dermatological condition. The feet are exposed to constant pressure, moisture, and friction, which makes them more vulnerable to irritation. Atopic dermatitis and dyshidrotic eczema are two common conditions that affect the skin on the feet. These conditions involve inflammation and can lead to recurring discomfort if not properly addressed. Early recognition is key to maintaining healthy skin and preventing complications. Symptoms of foot irritation vary but often include itching, redness, and scaling. Some individuals experience painful cracks or peeling skin, while others develop small blisters that may leak fluid. Dyshidrotic eczema typically presents with clustered blisters that cause burning or itching sensations. Atopic dermatitis often leads to dry and inflamed skin that may thicken over time. These symptoms can worsen with heat, moisture, and repeated friction. Common causes of foot skin irritation include stress, which can weaken the immune response and trigger flare-ups. Diet also plays a role, as poor nutrition may reduce the skin's ability to repair itself. Shoe and sock materials can irritate the skin, especially when they restrict airflow or trap sweat. Repeated exposure to these factors can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to chronic irritation.

Risk factors include prolonged use of tight footwear, high humidity, sensitive skin, and a history of allergic reactions. Individuals who are active or spend long hours on their feet may be more prone to irritation. Preventive care and proper treatment can improve skin health and reduce symptoms. If you are dealing with irritated skin on your feet, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Choosing the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Running shoes are designed to support the foot during repetitive impact, but the best choice depends on individual foot biomechanics. This includes how the foot moves during walking or running, known as pronation. Understanding whether a person has overpronation, supination, or neutral pronation helps guide proper shoe selection. Each pattern affects how weight is distributed across the foot and how forces are absorbed.

Symptoms of improper shoe selection may include arch pain, shin discomfort, or recurring injuries. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively, placing strain on the arch and inner ankle. Supination, also known as underpronation, happens when the foot rolls outward, reducing shock absorption and increasing stress on the outer foot. Neutral pronation represents a balanced movement where weight is distributed evenly, allowing for efficient stride and reduced strain.

Risk factors for choosing the wrong running shoes include lack of knowledge about foot structure, improper fitting, and selecting shoes based only on appearance. Runners who train on hard surfaces, such as pavement, require road running shoes that provide cushioning and support. Stability running shoes are recommended for individuals with overpronation, as they help control excessive inward motion. Neutral running shoes are designed for those with balanced foot mechanics and provide flexible cushioning without added correction.

The cause of many running related injuries can be traced to mismatched footwear and poor biomechanical support. Proper assessment of foot type and gait is key to selecting the right shoe. This can improve alignment, reduce stress, and enhance overall comfort. Understanding foot biomechanics empowers runners to make informed decisions and maintain long-term foot health. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions and guide you on how to choose shoes that are right for you.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. 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 Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.