A bunion develops when the big toe gradually shifts out of normal alignment, creating a noticeable bump near its base. Several factors can increase the likelihood of this condition. Family history plays a major role, as inherited foot structure may make some people more prone to joint instability. Footwear that crowds the toes or places repeated pressure on the front of the foot can worsen mechanical stress, over time. Flat feet or abnormal walking patterns may also change how weight is distributed across the joint. Inflammatory joint conditions can weaken support around the area and contribute to progression. Women are affected more often, partly due to both foot structure and footwear habits. A podiatrist can assess alignment, movement, and pressure patterns to guide treatment decisions. If you notice big toe shifting or joint pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. Attacks often begin suddenly and may cause intense pain, redness, and swelling that can become severe within hours. The affected joint may appear shiny, swollen, and extremely tender. Flare-ups make walking or even light pressure from a bedsheet uncomfortable. Gout can develop when the body produces too much uric acid or cannot remove it efficiently. Diet, dehydration, and taking certain medications are risk factors. Obesity and family history may also contribute. Some people experience repeated flares that can eventually damage the joints if left untreated. A podiatrist can evaluate the symptoms, examine the affected joint, and may recommend imaging or laboratory testing to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment often includes medication to reduce inflammation and lower uric acid levels, along with guidance about long-term prevention strategies. If you suspect you have gout in your big toe or ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, most often between the toes. It usually begins with itching, redness, and a burning feeling that can worsen after wearing shoes for long periods of time. The skin may appear dry, cracked, or flaky, and in some cases small blisters can form. This condition develops when fungus grows in warm, damp environments, such as sweaty socks or shared surfaces like locker rooms. Simple habits like using clean towels and changing socks often can help reduce risk, but infections can still occur. Without proper care, symptoms may spread or lead to secondary skin problems. A podiatrist can identify the infection, determine its severity, and provide targeted treatments that clear the fungus and protect the skin. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Morton’s neuroma and traumatic neuromas are painful nerve conditions that can affect the feet in different ways. Morton’s neuroma develops when a nerve becomes thickened from repeated pressure or irritation, usually between the third and fourth toes. Many people describe burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the feeling of standing on a pebble while walking. A traumatic neuroma forms after a nerve has been injured by surgery, a deep cut, or direct trauma to the foot. As the nerve heals abnormally, it may create sharp pain, sensitivity, or electric shock sensations. Although these conditions involve different causes, both can interfere with walking and daily activity. A podiatrist can examine the foot, identify the affected nerve, and use imaging studies or diagnostic testing to confirm the condition. Treatment may include orthotics, footwear changes, injections, medication, or surgery, when symptoms become severe. If nerve pain in the foot continues to worsen, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our doctors of Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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