Bunions

A bunion is a “bump” on the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint near the base of the big toe that forms when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. Because the MTP joint supports the body’s weight while walking, bunions can be extremely painful if left untreated. Bunions can also form on the outside of the foot along the little toe. Dr. Harry Cotler and his team here at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center in Soldotna, AK treat this condition regularly.

 

There is evidence that shows that bunions are genetic and can be inherited, they can also result from various foot injuries or any birth deformities. Studies have also shown that bunions occur nearly 10 times more frequently in women. It has been suggested that wearing tight-fitting shoes, especially high-heel and narrow-toed shoes can greatly increase the risk of bunions. Some common symptoms of bunions include:

• Development of a firm  bump on the outside of the foot
• Thickening of the skin at the base of your big toe
• Persistent or intermittent pain
• Redness, swelling or pain at or near the MTP joint
• Corns or other irritations caused by the overlap of the first and second toes
• Restricted or painful motion of the big toe

Treatment for bunions varies depending on the type and severity of each individual case. If we are able to catch the bunion early enough, it can be treated with padding or medications but if it goes untreated it can result in surgery. Contact us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center today to begin the process of treating your bunions!

Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a condition that causes a burning, stabbing or aching pain in your foot, just beneath the toes in the metatarsal region of the foot. Metatarsalgia pain is often related overuse from walking or running. At Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center, we often see athletes who participate in high-impact sports suffering from this condition. In most cases, the pain occurs over a period of several months rather than suddenly.

 

Persistent stress can lead to chronic irritation and inflammation of the bone covering and adjacent to tissues. The following factors are said to contribute to metatarsalgia:

• High level of activity
• Improper biomechanics
• Unusual foot shape
• Tight Achilles tendon
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Ill-fitting footwear

This condition is possible to treat. Through regular icing and pressure bandages, metatarsalgia is reversible. Our team may also suggest that you not put any weight on your foot for a period of time. However, if your pain is severe or ongoing, it may be time to see us. Other treatment options include modification of footwear or insoles, use of metatarsal pads and arch supports.

 

Call our office in Soldotna, AK at (907) 260-3668 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler or visit www.hcotler.com for more information about Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center. 

Vascular Examination - PAD

Here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot care, we strive to be at the forefront of the podiatry profession. We do so through continuing education programs and keeping up with the latest technological advances. One of the technologies that we’re using at our Soldotna, AK practice is a vascular examination tool. This great device allows us to better diagnose Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

 

PAD is a lower extremity disorder in which plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to the rest of your body. This plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue and other substances. When the plaque builds up in the body’s arteries, it can harden and narrow the arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the other organs in your body, especially to the legs and feet. For those wondering what the symptoms of PAD are, patients often report the following:

• Cramping pains in the legs or hip muscles while walking
• Burning or aching in the feet and toes while at rest
• Cooling of the skin in specific areas of the legs or feet
• Color change in the skin
• Sores on the feet and toes
• No pulse in the feet

Our non-invasive vascular exam is a simple test. Dr. Harry Cotler will place blood pressure cuffs on your leg at different levels. This will measure your blood pressure and obtain an image of the pulse wave form. This will show Dr. Cotler whether or not there is evidence of PAD.