About.com

4 Problems that Can Cause Painful, Deformed Toes

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:32:14 +0000

We may not think of our toes as being important -- but in fact they are very important to healthy foot functioning. Our toes, like other parts of the feet, are complex structures that absorb ground pressure and help us balance as we walk and run. Many of the problems that affect toes are caused by abnormal foot anatomy. Over time, these abnormalities may lead to permanent changes in a toe's appearance, such as a hammer toe or a bunion. For a look at four of the most common toe problems, along with photos of each see: What's Wrong with My Toes?

Spring and Summer Foot Health

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:01:01 +0000

Warm weather and outdoor fun can be tough on your feet. Spring sports, whether you're wearing running shoes or cleats, can bring an increased risk of tendonitis and heel pain (plantar fasciitis). To read more about the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, also known as heel pain syndrome, including how it's treated, see: Heel Pain.

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What to Expect with Bunion Surgery

Wed, 15 May 2013 14:13:42 +0000

A bunion, known medically as hallux valgus, is a very common foot problem that's often a source of recurring pain. Even when a bunion is not acutely painful, it can make wearing shoes uncomfortable when the bump on the side of the foot presses against the shoe. The bump is the result of changes to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, one of the five joints that flex and extend the toes. A bunion usually occurs at the first MTP, also known as the big toe joint. A bunionette, or tailor's bunion, occurs at the 5th MTP joint on the little-toe side of the foot.

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8 Painful Foot Conditions

Sat, 11 May 2013 10:05:09 +0000

Many of us have experienced the ache of a sprained ankle or the searing pain of a stubbed or broken toe. Aside from acute injuries such as these, some of the most common painful conditions that affect the foot and ankle include...Read More

Foot and Ankle Stretching Exercises

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:55:34 +0000

Spring time outdoor activities and sports bring an increase in lower leg, foot, and ankle injuries. If you are recovering from a sprain, tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis, your doctor may have recommended stretching of the affected area after a few days of rest. Gentle, non-weight bearing stretching or range of motion exercises help to maintain or increase healthy range of motion of a joint and can also help to ease pain.

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Reducing the Risk of Stress Fractures with Calcium and Vitamin D

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:42 +0000

A stress fracture is a type of bone fracture caused by a gradual weakening of the bone, resulting in a hairline crack. It is most often associated with athletic activity, especially when there has been an increase in intensity. Stress fractures can be an issue with nearly any activity--even intense walking can cause a stress fracture of a foot or leg bone under the right conditions. Another group subject to a higher-than-normal incidence of stress fractures are military recruits going through basic training.

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Pain on the Top of the Foot

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:27:32 +0000

Q: I recently started getting pain on the top of my foot that hurts most when I'm wearing shoes and walking or running. What could be causing this?

A: Pain on the top of the foot could be related to a few different problems. The tendons that cross over the top of the foot and can develop tendonitis. The protective fluid-filled sac that surrounds these tendons can become inflammed, causing pain and swelling. This can occur from overuse, which creates strain on a tendon, or it can occur from chronic rubbing against the tendon from a tight shoe. Tendonitis on the top of the foot is often related to a high-arched foot type or other problems with foot biomechanics (function). Learn more: Foot and Ankle Tendonitis.

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Coping with a Bunion

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:56:42 +0000

A bunion deformity is a common foot concern, especially because it can be a source of significant pain. The characteristic bump on the side of the big toe can enlarge over time as the big toe drifts toward the second toe. In most cases, a bunion develops due to faulty foot biomechanics or functioning as we stand and walk, which are hereditary.

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Big Toe Joint Pain

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:22:44 +0000

Even though the joints of the toes are small, they are important for healthy foot functioning, and they also endure significant weight-bearing stress. The first metatarsophalangeal joint (1st MTPJ) is the joint that connects the big toe to the first metatarsal bone of the forefoot. There are six foot-related problems that frequently occur at this joint, which can be possible causes of pain. Read more...

Spring 2013 Trends in Athletic Shoes

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:22:52 +0000

This year, sneaker shoppers will have an amazing array of bold-colored, high contrast shoes to choose from. The trend in artfully designed athletic shoes continues, as well as the shift toward light-weight minimalism that doesn't sacrifice durability or function. Athletic shoe companies are striving to make their shoes lighter but even better than before at withstanding the pressures of high-impact activities. Another enduring trend is the functionality of the upper part of the shoe, which has evolved towards being breathable, yet waterproof and allowing for more efficient temperature and moisture regulation. In other words, we can count on these shoes to stink less, last longer, perform better and look good doing it. Before you shop, be sure to check out Choosing the Right Athletic Shoes, for helpful hints on finding the right fit. Photo Courtesy of Pricegrabber.com

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