Marie-Christine Bourque podiatry clinic – Lévis Podiatrists and orthotics

Did you know that this type of pain is often related to unbalanced feet and legs?

Foot pain is very common, and often localized in the heel. The most common heel pain is plantar fasciitis. The forefoot is also often a source of pain. This pain is usually located on the soles of the feet just behind the toes. The term “metatarsalgia” encompasses the majority of these pains, which can then be more specifically classified according to the area affected and the source of pain or discomfort. Morton’s neuroma, hallux abducto valgus (foot bunion) and hammer toes are some of the most common disorders of the forefoot. The condition that affects the top and central portion of the foot often results from osteoarthritis. This osteoarthritis is normally the wearing down of the joints caused by a misalignment of the foot.

Ankle pain can be caused by an old injury such as an improperly healed sprain or fracture and/or a functional foot problem. The onset of...

Ingrown toenails are a frequent nail issue that can be extremely painful and even incapacitating. It's identified by a toenail that grows into the flesh and punctures it.

Ingrown toenails cause irritation and, in the worst-case scenario, infection, resulting in painful toes.

As a result, it is critical to address the problem as soon as possible in order to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control.

Let's look at the causes, symptoms, and remedies for ingrown toenails.

An ingrown toenail can be identified by a variety of symptoms. Inflammatory redness, pain when squeezed, and, in some circumstances, blood or pus on the side of your nail are all possible symptoms.

However, keep in mind that an ingrown toenail has three stages;

• First stage: there is a small inflammation and pain when pressed.
• Second stage: we observe an infection and the wound becomes more visible.
• Third stage:...

A viral infection is what causes a plantar wart, which is a skin lesion. It can either stay dormant for years or develop and spread quickly. It's a contagious skin condition that affects you and those around you.

The HPV, or human papillomavirus, creates these lesions. Despite the fact that it is a harmless virus, it is recommended that you get treatment as soon as possible to get rid of it.

The plantar wart frequently appears as a tiny, rough, spherical, and flat lump. It will manifest itself in a variety of ways.

• Appearance: it consists of spongy, brownish or yellowish tissue with small black dots;
• Size: it can measure from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter;
• Pain: plantar warts can be painful, even though they are uncommon. Friction or a pressure point can produce this type of pain, which can become severe;
• Posture problem: the foot pain caused by the plantar wart can lead to a foot positioning...

Diabetic foot develops as a result of the neuropathy that comes with poorly managed diabetes. When blood sugar levels are excessively high for an extended length of time, it impairs a person's neurological system.

The injury results in a lack of sensation in the lower limbs, among other things. Peripheral neuropathy is the medical term for this condition.

Blood vessel constriction is also caused by poorly managed blood sugar levels. Wounds and ulcers form more easily and heal more slowly as a result of inadequate circulation.

If left untreated, these two factors explain the dangers of a diabetic foot. A diabetic foot sufferer may have trouble recognizing a wound or a temperature change. As a result, individuals may be unable to discern between discomfort that requires the attention of a podiatrist or other health care provider.

Diabetic foot is a severe disease that can lead to gangrene and, in the worst-case scenario, amputation. That's...

Corns, calluses and severe corns are formations of dead flesh under the feet. They can be embarrassing for people when they walk or exercise.

Often, people with delicate feet tend to suffer more. However, this foot problem is easily treated.

It is common for an individual to develop skin problems. However, it is important to know the difference between the 3 pathologies described below.

• Corn: this is a localized area of skin that thickens a lot. When a cluster forms, it bores into the skin and causes pain similar to that of a pebble in a shoe.
• Callus: a corn has several names, like callosity or hyperkeratosis. It is characterized by an accumulation of excessive layers of skin and can form cracks in the heel if not treated.
• Severe corn: these are also corns, but in their case, they are more advanced. They are painful, with a brownish center. They develop because of excessive pressure on the skin that has thickened,...

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition. A strain or break in the plantar fascia, the fibrous band that supports the arch of the foot, is at the root of this condition.

Heel discomfort is the most prominent sign of this condition. It will be felt from the first steps in the morning or after a lengthy period of sitting.

You can find plantar fasciitis symptoms, causes, and remedies are listed below.

A person with plantar fasciitis will feel discomfort when they first walk in the morning, but it will subside over the day. They will also experience discomfort after sitting for an extended period of time.

Plantar fasciitis can also cause the following symptoms:

• Pain when palpating your arch or when pressing on your heel;
• Standing or walking causes pain, which might worsen over time;
• Tension on the outside of the foot, which can cause compensating foot and leg discomfort;
• A condition...

Do you ever get a pain in the foot that makes you feel like you have needles or pebbles in your shoes? If so, you may have metatarsalgia.

This is what we call the pain in the area of ​​the foot sole, between the arch of the foot and the toes. If you have metatarsalgia, you may experience pain in a very localized area or on your entire forefoot.

Metatarsalgia is basically caused by inflammation. Often, the patient who suffers will feel that their socks are always bunched up at the base of the toes. Sometimes they will even feel like they are walking with a pebble or needles in their shoe.

• Burning sensation at the front of the foot
• Swelling of the front part of the foot
• Swelling on the front and top of feet
• Calluses on the front part of the feet
• Difficulty crouching down on bent toes
• Twinge in the foot...

When you place your foot on the ground, do you feel discomfort beneath your heel?

Seeing as calcification under the calcaneus is quite common, Lenoir's thorn might be the disease that affects you.

The heel spur, known as Lenoir's thorn, is a bony protrusion on the inside of your heel. This anatomical structure can be seen by X-ray.

People with this condition frequently experience pain in their heels while taking their first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long period. They may also notice a painful spot in their heel, such as a spur.

Imaging is usually used to detect this structure. It is very difficult to feel by touch.

Let's take a look at what makes heel spurs develop, as well as the therapies that can help you get rid of the discomfort they produce.

Heel spurs usually do not cause any symptoms.

When walking or standing for lengthy periods of time, the majority of persons with this...

Is it difficult to walk on your foot because of a deformity in the big toe area? Is your big toe extending from the base due to the same deformity? Do you have pain and inflammation in your joints?

If this is the case, consult a podiatrist right away because you most likely have a bunion (hallux valgus).

Don't be deceived if the bunion appears to be painless at first.

Hallux valgus can produce a variety of unpleasant symptoms, ranging from minor aches and pains to ingrown toenails and mobility issues.

Here's a rundown of the signs and symptoms of a bunion:

• The appearance of a hump at the base of the big toe caused by a common joint displacement
• Beginning of the displacement of the big toe towards the 2nd toe
• Appearance of joint stiffness and pain when moving straight
• Having trouble putting on shoes (widening of the forefoot)
• Second toe deforms and becomes clawed or...

Is there little or no curve in your foot arch? Do you get foot or joint discomfort when you stand? Flatfoot might be to blame for these problems.

Flatfoot is the collapse of the arch of the foot, as the term implies. Flatfoot is most visible when standing or walking, and it can cause serious postural issues. Fortunately, there are treatment options for treating this condition.

Flat-footed people may feel localized pain in the plantar area. However, this disease can have postural, musculoskeletal, or articular consequences.

The following are some of the most frequent symptoms of flat feet:

• Pain in the arch of the foot
• Joint pain in the ankles
• Change in the shape of the foot
• Feeling of imbalance on uneven ground
• Inward tilting of the heel and knees
• Ducking" gait
• Knee pain
• Lower back pain in the lumbar region

If flatfoot is not...

Unlike the flat foot, which is intended to be supple and flattened, cavus foot is excessively arched and rigid. This foot problem is characterized by a pronounced curvature from the top of the secondary foot to the plantar arch that is very high. 

It is also possible to observe a tightening between the heel and forefoot. This results in a curled appearance of the affected feet.

Cavus foot is not always a major source of pain as soon as it appears. However, if the deformity increases and the foot becomes more rigid, the arched foot can cause serious discomfort. 

Initially not very burdensome, advanced stage cavus foot can compromise the quality of life of individuals suffering from it. 

In addition to causing pain in the plantar arch, hollow foot usually leads to the following symptoms: 

• Plantar arch curvature more pronounced than normal
• Hump on the top of the foot corresponding to the...

Overuse of the tendon that links the calf muscle to the heel can lead to Achilles tendinitis. As a result, Achilles tendinopathy is a frequent issue among runners. This disease causes discomfort that rises at the start of activity and diminishes afterwards.

Are you an athlete who regularly gets discomfort in the rear of the ankle when training? Do you have muscular stiffness that lasts throughout the day when you get up? Have you seen a suspicious lump on the rear of your Achilles tendon recently?

You almost certainly have Achilles tendinitis if you experience the aforementioned.

The Achilles tendon, also known as the calcaneal tendon, is one of the largest and most active tendons in the human body. When it gets inflamed, it affects the entire body. Achilles tendinitis can take two forms: the acute form and the chronic form.

The following are the most common symptoms seen in people with acute Achilles tendinitis:

• A...

Do you suffer from foot pain that resembles electric shocks in the forefoot, followed by numbness in your toes? If you experience this, it can be symptoms caused by neuroma, also known as Morton’s neuroma.

This problem is due to a thickening of the nerves located between the toes, as a result of compression or friction. This leads to inflammation, numbness, burning or a sensation of small electrical discharges felt in the toes.

Although there is no outward sign of this condition, neuroma triggers several uncomfortable sensations in different areas of the foot.

• Numbness and tingling in your toes
• Sensation of burning in the forefoot
• Sensation of having a bunched up sock under your toes
• Sensation of small electrical shocks in your toes
• Toe cramps

These symptoms are aggravated if you remain standing for long periods of time or if you wear narrow shoes that are not...

Trichophyton fungi are what causes an athlete's foot - a dermatological infection. This foot fungus thrives in the spaces between the toes, where moisture tends to build up.

The fungus that causes athlete's foot is very infectious and may be found in locations like locker rooms and public swimming pools.

Athlete's foot is a difficult condition to treat, and it frequently recurs. If left untreated, it can extend to the sole of the foot, resulting in bacterial infection and problems.

It can spread to the nails in advanced stages, causing them to stiffen and discolor. Athlete's foot can also produce discomfort in other parts of the body, such as the groin or hands.

Let's look at how to spot this problem and what you can do to avoid it.

Athlete's foot is a skin infection that mostly affects the toes. Tinea pedis symptoms are generally more unpleasant than painful, but they should never be overlooked.

An athlete's foot...

If you suffer from a nail infection like nail fungus (onychomycosis), don’t let this problem go untreated. Most often affecting the big toe, it is a fungal infection that causes pain and that is very difficult to treat.

However, if you take the time, it is possible to get rid of it. Read on for further information on nail fungus.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection, that is, caused by fungi. It causes different symptoms in the affected individual. The main symptoms associated with this podiatric problem include:

• Nail discoloration (it becomes white, yellow or brown)
• Nail that grows thicker, curls up or changes shape
• Nail that breaks more easily
• Painful, infected nail
• Residue under the nail

As mentioned below, it is very difficult to rid oneself of an infection like onychomycosis. So, as recommended by podiatrists, if you suffer from any of these symptoms, do not hesitate...

Osteoarthritis of the big toe is a degenerative condition that causes joint hardening and a progressive loss of mobility, which may be quite painful.

The most prevalent type of joint deterioration is osteoarthritis. The metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe is affected by hallux rigidus.

If the big toe osteoarthritis is not treated, the front of the foot loses mobility and eventually freezes.

This disease can cause discomfort and deformity, making it difficult to wear shoes.

Osteoarthritis of the big toe, like many foot diseases, is simpler to treat if caught early.

Learn about the warning symptoms of hallux rigidus and how to avoid it by developing good habits.

The consequences of a hallux rigidus issue might be so severe that surgery is required.

This is why it's critical to recognize the signs and symptoms of big toe osteoarthritis.

The presence of hallux rigidus may be indicated by the...

The inflammation of the sesamoid bones under the metatarsal head near the big toe is known as sesamoiditis.

This plantar condition, which is more frequent among dancers and runners, produces discomfort and limits movement flexibility.

Although sesamoiditis is relatively simple to cure on its own, it is critical to detect the warning symptoms before it worsens.

Here are the symptoms, causes and medical treatments for sesamoiditis in the foot.

The sesamoids are interesting little bones that aren't formally part of the human skeleton. They aren't related to anything else in the musculoskeletal system save a tendon and a joint.

Despite their small size, they can cause physical and mechanical pain.

In sesamoiditis, they are the cause of symptoms like:

• Swelling of the affected area
• Pain under the base of the big toe that gets worse when walking
• Redness or bruising of the...

Whether due to premature joint degeneration or a disease of the immune system, foot arthritis is a very uncomfortable condition.

Arthritis is usually characterized by musculoskeletal pain accompanied by day-to-day difficulties in mobility.

Joints like knees, hips and ankles are particularly vulnerable to this condition.

Currently, there is no single medical solution that completely cures foot arthritis. 

However, by acting from the onset of the first symptoms, it is possible to reduce the impact of the ensuing complications. 

Let’s examine what causes this degenerative disorder and how to effectively relieve it.

When arthritis affects the feet, it generally takes two forms: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition caused by an autoimmune disease where heredity can be an aggravating factor. 

This form of arthritis affects people...

Subungual hematoma is a fairly frequent toenail injury caused by an accumulation of blood following a sudden or repeated shock.

Although toenail hematomas are typically benign, they can become extremely painful and possibly indicate the existence of a more serious issue.

It's critical to understand how to detect a traumatic nail condition in order to get the help you need.

So, let's look at the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for a toenail hematoma.

Subungual hematoma is a very straightforward to recognize condition since it usually arises after a blow or a squeeze.

It can be recognized based on signs like:

• Sharp pain in the affected toe
• A discoloration of the nail towards blue, purple or black
• A pulsating or throbbing sensation in the affected area
• A toe that is sensitive to touch
• Swelling of the painful toe
• A sore nail that...

Blisters are a watery lesion that occurs when the skin of the foot is exposed to friction or irritating pressure.

While it is common knowledge that wearing new shoes causes blisters, other factors can also influence the development of blisters.

Let's learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for persistent foot blisters.

When a blister develops on the foot, it usually affects specific parts of the skin that come into contact with the shoe.

The same is true for the heel, big toe, upper arch, and forefoot:

• The heel: Blisters on the heel are common due to the impact of an ill-fitting or new shoe.

• The big toe: A painful blister might form on the big toe if the shoe does not allow enough room for the toes.

• The top of the arch: Athletes who run are more likely to develop this form of blister under the foot.

• Forefoot: Blisters on the forefoot, whether...

Normally, the big toe has a limited range of motion. However, a joint obstruction can occasionally induce knee discomfort, heel pain, and ankle sprains.

This is known as hallux limitus.

Without therapy, functional hallux limitus can progress to hallux rigidus, a potentially crippling type of big toe osteoarthritis.

Learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for functional hallux limitus before permanent harm occurs.

One of the risks of hallux limitus is that it is difficult to identify in its early stages.

Because it affects the big toe, it is likely to have symptoms comparable to other diseases.

In order to obtain treatment as soon as possible, you should identify the following symptoms: 

• The buildup of corns and calluses on the inner side of the big toe
• Significant discomfort in the big toe and surrounding area
• Pain in the knees
• Tension in the sole of...

Toenail trauma can result from a variety of causes, including a blow, a crush, or a foreign body.

Even if toenail trauma is benign in the majority of cases, there is always the danger of lifelong abnormalities.

It is advised that toenail trauma be treated as soon as possible to reduce the cosmetic hazards connected with it.

Given how similar this sort of damage can be to a tumor under the toenail, it should be given considerably more attention.

Toenail trauma is the nail's reaction to an unusual shock or force, as the term indicates.

The following symptoms appear after an accident that causes a subungual hematoma:

• A buildup of blood in the shock-affected nail tissue
• A change in the color of the nail to dark purple or blackish blue
• Pain that lasts for a long time or throbs
• Partial or total nail detachment in the weeks following the traumatic incident

Other...

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body's essential organs, epidermis, and musculoskeletal components.

As a result, poorly regulated blood glucose levels frequently result in the development of a plantar lesion that is diagnosed as a diabetic foot ulcer.

Although ulcers are a common consequence of diabetes, they can be avoided.

Here are the symptoms, causes, and treatments for a diabetic foot ulcer to assist you in avoiding this condition.

The feet of a diabetic should always be monitored because of their fragility.

The ulcer usually appears in the following plantar regions:

• Between the toes or on the outside of the toes;
• On the top of the foot or in the center of the plantar surface;
• Near the malleolus;
• On the large toe's side;

It is also vital to pay attention to the warning signs of the problem while considering the locations that are prone...

The bunionette, also known as quintus varus or tailor's bunion, is a toe deformity caused by a deformation of the 5th metatarsal bone.

Mirroring the bunion of the foot (hallux valgus), the bunionette causes a deviation of the last toe that makes it difficult to put on the shoe.

This foot condition, if not treated properly, can cause extreme discomfort and consequences, which can be life-threatening in some cases.

It's important to understand the conditions surrounding a quintus varus in order to see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

You can find the symptoms, causes, and remedies for a bunionette here.

Even though the bunionette is easy to identify from other toe abnormalities like hallux valgus or hammertoes, knowing how to recognize it is vital for preventing further complications.

This type of metatarsalgia provides esthetic discomfort as well as a variety of symptoms, including:

• Noticeable pain...

Heel bursitis (also known as calcaneal bursitis) is a painful disease that can make daily activities difficult. This foot condition arises when a bursa, a sac that secretes synovial fluid and serves to lubricate the joint between the bone and the tendon, becomes inflamed.

Although heel bursitis is usually harmless, it is nonetheless painful and uncomfortable. If you believe you have it, you should get assistance as soon as possible. You'll be back on your feet in no time with the correct intervention at the right moment!

However, some people, particularly athletes, continue to participate in sports despite chronic bursitis. This might aggravate the bursitis, producing extra foot discomfort and worsening the inflammation.

PiedReseau explains the many methods for detecting, treating, and avoiding this condition.

To determine when to see a podiatrist, you must first understand the most common symptoms of bursitis. Keep a close eye on the...

Foot capsulitis is a type of metatarsalgia in which the joint capsule of the metatarsal bones is inflamed.

Although it is more prevalent in the shoulder, knee, or elbow, it is probable that it might also happen in the foot.

Let's look at what causes foot capsulitis, how to cure it, and what symptoms it triggers.

While we are all too familiar with the problems that capsulitis in the shoulder may cause, its plantar equivalent can be just as bad.

The following symptoms are commonly associated with capsulitis in the foot:

• A burning sensation under the toes in the front area of the foot;
• Numbness in the forefoot;
• A feeling of a lump under the forefoot;
• Putting weight on the front half of the foot becomes difficult;
• Pain in the phalanges (toes);

The symptoms indicated above should be closely monitored since if not addressed promptly, they can lead to serious...

Plantar fibromatosis is a thickening of the aponeurosis tissue in the arch of the foot.

Plantar fibromatosis often manifests as tiny lumps.

Although it is typically harmless, it can cause pain when walking and can make it difficult to move.

It's critical to understand the signs in order to detect it before it becomes a serious issue.

The following are the symptoms and treatments for plantar fibromatosis.

Plantar fibromatosis, which mostly affects the arch of the foot, is considered benign until proven otherwise.

It is commonly linked to the following symptoms:

• A hard growth in the arch of the foot that may stay the same size or expand 
• Other protrusions identical to the first one forming beneath the foot
• Walking pain might occur in various circumstances (with or without shoes)

Fibrosis, while not extremely limiting, can lead to a multitude of problems if...

The hallux, commonly known as the big toe, is an important part of the lift and mobility that the foot offers to the body.

The hallux, together with the heel and fifth toe of the foot, provides strong support for a person standing.

When the big toe fractures, the entire stability of the posture is compromised.

Because the foot and toes have such a complicated bone network, it might be tough to figure out what's wrong.

Here are the signs and symptoms of a broken big toe, as well as the best therapies for it.

When a foot trauma happens, it's helpful to know how to tell the difference between a sprain and a fracture, especially if the pain is coming from the big toe.

A hallux fracture is indicated by the following symptoms:

• Sharp pain that doesn't go away
• Difficulty putting weight on the sore toe
• Swelling of the big toe
• A red, yellow, blue or black...

Raynaud's disease is an arterial illness that affects the feet and hands' tiny arteries.

When the body gets chilly, this two-stage condition causes blood vessels to constrict more aggressively, resulting in numbness in the extremities.

Raynaud's syndrome isn't usually excruciatingly unpleasant.

It can, however, lead to severe repercussions if not handled effectively.

The disease is divided into two stages: the primary stage and the secondary stage.

Read on to learn more about the causes of Raynaud's disease and the treatment options for its patients.

There are two stages to this circulatory problem.

Visual signs are evident in the primary stage, but bodily symptoms are not visible.

However, Raynaud's disease will become Raynaud's syndrome in the secondary stage, and physical symptoms will occur. As a result, the signs are easier to spot.

The primary stage of Raynaud's syndrome affects...

Inflammation of the panniculus, a fatty layer under the epidermis, causes heel panniculitis, a dermatological disease.

To treat both your heel and your skin, this inflammatory condition frequently necessitates the help of a podiatrist and a dermatologist. However, panniculitis can affect any fatty tissue in your body.

This skin disease can be very uncomfortable and might make it difficult to go about your regular activities. PiedReseau tells you more about this condition and how to fight it.

The development of nodules under the skin is the most common sign of panniculitis. Although benign, these tumors should be constantly monitored.

The nodules, which resemble balls and are sensitive to touch, create abnormalities in the afflicted skin area. Heel panniculitis, for example, can make it difficult to walk about and create a lot of foot pain.

Other symptoms associated with nodules in the foot...

When the foot is exposed to a succession of microtraumas or a sudden severe shock, it results in subluxation, or the cuboid syndrome.

Many sportsmen and dancers suffer from cuboid subluxation because of the circumstances in which it develops.

Because the symptoms of cuboid syndrome can be quite similar to those of other plantar diseases, it's crucial to understand the differences.

Let's look at what causes whole or partial dislocation of this bone portion of the foot, as well as how to cure it.

The foot is an anatomically complex structure.

So, before we go into the specific reasons for cuboid syndrome, it's helpful to understand what to expect when it's subluxated.

The foot is normally split into two sections: the forefoot and the rearfoot.

The phalanges, the 14 tiny bones that make up the toes, articulate the forefoot.

The tarsus is made up of seven bones that make up the...

An inflammatory problem prevalent in athletes, goose foot tendonitis affects the three tendons that connect together inside the knee.

This type of tendonitis affects the three muscles that help stabilize the knee in flexion, which can make the pain particularly debilitating.

Due to its mobility-sensitive nature, goose foot tendonitis requires rapid medical intervention.

Here is what we know about goose foot tendonitis and how to manage it while protecting yourself from relapses.

Similar to knee osteoarthritis or patellofemoral syndrome, goose foot tendonitis develops gradually.

The symptoms associated with it are generally localized as follows:

• Severe pain felt 4 or 5 centimetres below the knee, just above the tibia
• Discomfort that worsens while walking, climbing or descending
• Swelling in the joint area
• Formation of a nodule in the affected area (ball of scar...

Genu valgum, commonly known as knock-knees, are generally present from childhood.

The varum knee, unlike the valgus knee, shows in youngsters as a cowboy-like outward deviation of the joint.

The valgus knee, on the other hand, produces inward movement of the knees.

If left untreated, this condition makes it difficult to move the legs and feet. It can eventually damage the joint cartilage, resulting in knee osteoarthritis.

This is why detecting symptoms and implementing a customized treatment plan are critical for this condition.

Valgus knee is seen as a juvenile physiological abnormality.

At birth, most infants will have some outward deviation of the lower limbs.

Later on, this deviation will tend to be reversed in the first years of life. Genu valgum is the medical term for this condition.

However, if the axial deformity of the lower limbs continues throughout maturity, it becomes more...

Toenail paronychia is a bacterial infection that produces stabbing pain and pus buildup near the toenail.

Acute paronychia is caused by a bacterial infection, like staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus, while chronic paronychia develops slowly as a result of the candida bacteria.

In the case of acute paronychia, it should be treated by a health care expert, such as a podiatrist, as soon as possible due to the fast progression of symptoms.

This article explains what paronychia is and how to cure it.

Although paronychia is most frequently associated with the fingers, it can also be a toe infection.

From inoculation to the need for treatment, paronychia usually goes through 3 phases, which are listed below:

• The inflammation phase: The infection is still reversible at this point, but it must be treated quickly to avoid consequences.

• The "colonization" phase: This stage of infection is...

Clubfoot is either a congenital malformation or a prenatal deformity that develops during the child's development.

The so-called idiopathic clubfoot affects the structures of the foot directly, despite the fact that it is normally well-managed. As a result, it is likely to repeat on a regular basis.

It's thus critical to keep an eye out for signs of recurrence including overpronation, postural issues, and even difficulty learning to walk.

All of the information you'll need to understand more about clubfoot is provided below.

Idiopathic clubfoot and positional clubfoot are the two of the most common kinds of clubfoot.

Idiopathic clubfoot is a real congenital deformity of the foot that affects the surrounding musculoskeletal tissues, with a strong hereditary component in some cases.

Positional clubfoot, on the other hand, is not genuinely malformed. The infant's foot is retained in an odd posture during its growth in...

A painful compression of the tibial nerve is what characterizes a tarsal tunnel syndrome.

The tibial nerve extends from the back of the calf to the heel and sole of the foot and is encased in the tarsal tunnel, a fibrous canal.

When the tissues around this canal become inflamed, they might expand and compress it, causing the tarsal tunnel syndrome pain.

Let's take a look at the signs and symptoms of this foot problem, as well as the remedies available.

It is critical to understand the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome in order to get treatment as soon as possible.

The following symptoms are caused by tibial nerve neuralgia:

• Weight bearing and wearing particular shoes exacerbate pain on the inside of the ankle;
• Discomfort that fades with rest;
• A tingling or burning feeling beneath the foot, particularly when walking;
• An increase in the stiffness of the foot...

Also known as runner’s knee, patellofemoral syndrome is a condition resulting from a malfunction of the internal structures of the knee and femur.

This pathology is common among athletes and is even more painful when the kneecap is subjected to repeated stress.

If left untreated, patellofemoral syndrome can cause premature wear and tear of the cartilage and may result in irreversible damage.

Let’s look at its characteristics, what triggers its appearance and how to prevent it.

A kneecap condition like patellofemoral syndrome triggers symptoms that may be similar to those of other conditions.

That’s why it is so important to be able to distinguish them correctly.

Usually, patellofemoral syndrome manifests itself by these symptoms:

• Dull pain in the front of the knee, which can extend deep into the kneecap
• Discomfort that occurs during physical activity and persists...

Muscle cramps are rather common and may occur for many reasons.

Sudden involuntary contractions of one or more muscles is what constitutes a cramp as we know it.

While short-lived, a muscle cramp generates significant pain, especially in the area of the calf.

Although the contractions in these muscles are typically benign, it isn't always the case.

We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the symptoms, causes and remedies of muscular cramps.

In most situations, there is no need to be alarmed about the existence of muscular cramps. On the other hand, it is the nature of the accompanying symptoms that must be investigated.

For example, we are considering signs like:

• Muscle cramps in the calves or under the feet;
• Frequent or long-lasting cramping episodes;
• Muscle weakness;
• Loss of sensation before or after a cramp attack.

If you discover...

Plantar fissures appear mainly on the heel and forefoot.

They occur as a result of pressure on the soles of the feet. 

Thus, it is not altogether wrong to associate plantar fissures with other dermatological foot problems like corns and calluses. 

Nevertheless, plantar fissures can be distinguished from these dermatoses, particularly by the locations where they appear.

Untreated fissures can sometimes result in uncomfortable complications. 

It is therefore advantageous to be able to identify them in order to avoid unnecessary inconveniences.

Here are some of the characteristics of plantar fissures.

The result of friction or inadequate pressure on the sole of the foot, plantar fissures progress through different stages before becoming a real problem.

The following indications are warning signs that plantar fissures may appear:

• A corn builds up in the heel area and...

The heel is crucial for maintaining bodily equilibrium and it is exposed to extremely high pressure in order to complete this process.

The skin of the heel is normally not subjected to excessive pressure when the body is correctly balanced. However, in certain situations, the skin on this region of the foot isn't properly stressed, or your skin is extremely sensitive to external factors.

This imbalance, when combined with friction and dryness of the heel, results in cracks.

The cracks, which are initially superficial, might later develop into very severe wounds and infection.

This skin condition can cause pain and discomfort, making walking difficult.

Heel cracks should be treated carefully, even if they are typically straightforward to cure.

Cracked heels can go through several phases before they become a concern, even if they appear to be innocuous. Knowing how to detect the signs might help you intervene before...

Even healthy feet are susceptible to trauma and the accompanying damage. What about foot deformities, though?

In fact, under the required circumstances, any foot can develop a deformity. Let's take a look at some of the disorders that might cause misshapen feet, as well as some of the treatment options available.

It is vital to distinguish the many types of foot deformities before describing the symptoms that can overwhelm a patient with plantar abnormalities.

There are seven different types of plantar abnormalities that can affect adults:

• The flat foot: The flat foot has a sagging arch, unlike the usual, healthy foot. Almost everyone has this type of foot during early childhood.

• The cavus foot: A so-called "hollow" foot is characterized by an arch that is too pronounced. Although it is regularly associated with genetic factors, hollow foot is also found in athletes or in association with neurological...

Lower back pain (also known as lumbago) is becoming increasingly common. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes (NIH), roughly 4 out of 5 people will suffer low back pain at some point in their lives. It is also one of the world's major causes of stopping work.

Low back discomfort affects your lumbar vertebrae, as the name implies. There are 5 in total, and the lumbar is beneath your ribs, near the bottom of your spine. This sort of discomfort can also impact the sacrum, which links your tailbone to your spine.

The pain may spread to your buttocks, thighs, knees, legs, and feet in certain situations. The fact that we are bipedal, among other factors, helps explain this sort of discomfort. In reality, our spines were intended for four-legged creatures, but evolution has led to back issues.

Although lower back discomfort generally goes away on its own, podiatric therapy may be required to resolve this issue, which can...

Do you ever feel pain in your toes? Are you afraid the contracture will get progressively worse? If you answered yes, you may be suffering from hammer toe.

Hammer toes, claw toe or mallet toe are characterized by a contracture of the toe. The curvature of the affected toes gives the impression that your toes take the shape of an inverted V or hook. However, it is a problem that can be corrected.

A very large number of men and women suffer from hammer toes. This deformation of the toes can be divided into 3 categories. In addition to hammer toes, we find claw toe and mallet toe.

• Hammer toes: of the three occurrences, this is usually the most problematic contracture. The top of the toe’s joint is pushed upwards and rubs against the top of the shoe, causing pain. Wearing shoes then becomes increasingly uncomfortable and walking is very painful. A podiatrist can help you correct the problem with small silicone orthoses designed for your toes....

The primary goal of plantar orthotics is to improve the function of your foot in order to correct various biomechanical flaws or posture issues. They are used to compensate for certain deficiencies in your foot. Because they are custom designed specifically for your condition, the orthosis is perfectly adapted to the shape of your foot to optimize its function.

In addition to relieving any pain you may experience, a custom-made foot orthosis is adapted to the morphology of your feet, and redistributes the pressure exerted on them. It can therefore be used to treat many pathologies and deformities. Remember that the health of your feet is important to be able to perform your daily activities.  

To ensure your orthotics treatment provides effective results, the podiatrist will have to evaluate you and design a custom casting of your feet. You will be cared for during all stages of the process, to ensure you receive the correct orthosis, which you can...

Cortisone injections, sometimes referred to as “cortisone infiltration,” are often a beneficial podiatry treatment used to relieve acute or chronic pain related to various musculoskeletal issues. Actually, cortisone is a hormone frequently used as an anti-inflammatory to relieve certain joint pains, rashes, inflammation or swelling.

Learn more about cortisone injections, an effective treatment with numerous benefits, but which must generally be used in the short term, with care and discernment, by a healthcare professional.

An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) is an inflammation caused by a portion of a nail (usually on the big toe) penetrating the surrounding skin.

While usually minor, it is nonetheless a common nail problem that can result in pain and inconvenience in your daily life. If the ingrown toenail is not treated, it may lead to inflammation and exacerbate the pain in the foot.

Do not worry, however, as there are a variety of useful therapies available to help you get rid of ingrown toenails and get your feet back on track. Learn more in this article. 

Medical nail clipping is one of the most traditional nail care procedures. Nail clipping is a common solution for ingrown toenail problems that is performed by a podiatrist or a specialized nurse (assistant). Professionals in the field of foot care can customize a cut to your nail's condition.

Nail care, on the other hand, is more than simple nail trimming, as antibiotic creams or baths can...

Plantar warts are common skin lesions that can be quite unsightly. They are often harmless, although they can be infectious and unpleasant.

In reality, these growths on the foot might cause bleeding or create other issues such as irritation, pain, or infectious cellulitis in the long run.

Furthermore, if you are diabetic, elderly, or immunosuppressed, your plantar warts are more likely to cause problems.

Fortunately, plantar warts may be treated in a variety of ways to reduce the risk of infection and consequences. Let's have a look at those.

Your podiatrist can write you a prescription for painless wart treatment at home. The majority of these medicines are used topically.

Prescription medication care can:

• Treat plantar warts at home;
• Treat plantar warts completely painlessly.

However, this type of treatment...

• Is usually longer lasting;
• Must be...

Performed by a podiatrist, foot care includes many treatments and assessments aimed at preventing pain, reducing restrictions and promoting comfort. They can even be performed at home by a specialized caregiver.

A versatile professional, the podiatrist uses a variety of treatments to the benefit of your feet:

• Physical treatments;
• Pharmacological treatments;
• Orthopedic treatments;
• Surgical treatments.

A number of cases require foot care to be performed in a professional clinic. Therefore, the podiatrist and their team can provide you with a complete service to prevent and treat your foot pathologies. Naturally, all of this is done with clean, sterilized equipment.

Read on to learn more about the different treatment options.

Among the common foot treatments performed in podiatry you can find:

• The application of special creams;
• The prescription of...

Having your children’s feet evaluated by a competent foot care professional will ensure proper management of any foot pathology that may worsen over the years.

Thus, when taken care of early enough, it is possible to improve your child’s postural development by evaluating and correct any foot issues for the rest of their lives!

Comprehensive biomechanical examinations are carried out in a podiatric clinic in order to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition. It is thus possible to establish the best possible treatment plan. During your visit, podiatric doctors who provide advanced expertise will evaluate you.

A complete examination done in a podiatric clinic includes:

A musculo-skeletal ultrasound of the foot is a medical imaging technique used to examine pathologies that affect soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons, nerves and muscles. Complementary to the clinical examination, a foot ultrasound provides an accurate diagnosis and is used to design a more structured treatment plan for patients.

A foot ultrasound is an imaging technique that does not use radiation, and is completely safe. Children, adults and seniors can all benefit from this service, regardless of their physical condition.

Easily administered, a foot ultrasound provides results almost equivalent to those of an MRI, ensuring rapid diagnosis and management of the condition.

Ultrasound-guided injection can be used to deliver treatment directly to the affected area.

It may contain an anti-inflammatory solution, similar to the cortisone injection in the foot.

Ultrasound-guided injections, however, are more typically utilized to guide a medical practitioner during surgery on minor foot structures.

This type of infiltration not only relieves pain in pathologies including osteoarthritis of the big toe, plantar fasciitis, Morton's neuroma, and other plantar ailments, but it also allows for viscosupplementation and hyaluronic acid injection into particular joints.

This treatment offers pain alleviation that is both effective and safe.

Discover what makes this modern process unique, as well as how it can be beneficial for you.

Podiatrists can work safely and efficiently with ultrasound injection.

Although such a guiding device is occasionally required for cortisone injection in the...

Minimally invasive and highly effective, the therapeutic laser is a modern treatment for foot pain.

The laser treatment performed in the clinic relies on technology that thoroughly heals the damaged tissue through photobiomodulation.

This method accelerates the body's natural healing process, similarly to ShockWave therapy.

The therapeutic laser treatment provides relief from chronic pain, acute pain as well as post-surgery complaints.

This treatment uses safe beams of light, also known as high-power laser therapy.

When these light beams hit the skin, they penetrate the structures at the surface. Adding slight pressure may also allow the laser to reach deeper into the affected tissues.

Once they have penetrated the epidermis, the beams of radiation that reach the tissue are absorbed by melanin and hemoglobin.

As a result, the patient feels almost immediate relief when this energetic phenomenon is then...

ShockWave therapy was first used to break up kidney stones.

This therapeutic technology, however, has been adapted to other medicinal purposes as well. Nowadays, podiatrists use it in the clinic to treat difficult-to-repair musculoskeletal injuries.Acoustic waves are at the core of the ShockWave therapy. Through a sequence of high-speed shocks, it strengthens the body and aids in the recovery of painful foot disorders. Most notably, it is used to treat plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and heel spur.

In the case of ShockWave therapy, the podiatrist treats plantar conditions with a special device that includes an applicator.

When the applicator emits a high-intensity pulse, it is transmitted through the skin to the tissue that requires treatment.

By inducing microtrauma around the affected region, this technique aims to cause an inflammatory response in the body.

While it may appear counterproductive, it is a powerful...

Therapeutic taping consists of adhesive bandage that is strategically applied to specific areas in order to increase muscle tone or reduce pain associated with certain movements. Contrary to popular belief, therapeutic taping helps more than just for athletes.

While its use is widespread among runners and tennis players, therapeutic taping is also suitable for the general population. It is efficient for relieving very specific joint and muscle pain, however therapeutic taping cannot be applied just anywhere at random.

That's why it's important to trust a qualified professional such as a podiatrist to perform the taping. If you have been struggling with muscle pain or tension for some time, therapeutic taping may be right for you.

Taping is often used in addition to physiotherapy and plays a therapeutic role for many people.

This comes in 3 types: athletic taping, neuro-proprioceptive taping and finally therapeutic or compressive...

Podiatrists are trained to perform foot mobilizations. They are able to perform an articular evaluation of your feet as well as any symptoms felt. Following this evaluation, the podiatrist designs a personalized treatment plan to improve the articular architecture of your feet.

The podiatrist performs gentle and precise foot manipulations to help improve your feet’s functioning and alleviate your pain. You will thus benefit from optimal biomechanics. Your feet will be better adapted to your daily activities: walking, running, golf, etc.

Postural evaluation is a valuable tool for a complete and accurate evaluation. This computer-assisted system analyzes the light reflected by the body in order to detect any anatomical variations indicative of various pathologies of the feet and the body, without the use of radiation, waves or any other processes that may be harmful to your health. CryoVizion allows the podiatrist to conduct a preliminary objective evaluation of the patient and follow their progress while being treated with plantar orthotics.

Postural imaging makes it possible to:

• Help establish an accurate diagnosis
• Customize treatment for maximum benefit
• Show the benefits of a treatment
• Show how a plantar orthosis is helping your posture
• Measure the feet in a qualitative and quantitative manner