Items filtered by date: July 2025

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out as the top of the toe leans inward. This condition develops gradually due to pressure and the misalignment of the foot bones. Causes include genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, and certain foot types. Risk factors include arthritis, flat feet, and occupations that require long hours of standing. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose bunions and offer treatment options, such as custom orthotics, footwear recommendations, or surgery, if needed. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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

Foot pain can stem from several common conditions, including plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and bunions. Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes, often due to overuse or poor footwear. It is one of the most common causes of foot pain, affecting over two million Americans each year. Tendonitis, especially in the Achilles or peroneal tendons, results from repetitive stress. Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, often due to genetics or wearing improper shoes. These conditions can cause sharp or aching pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking. You may notice redness, a bump near a toe, or discomfort that worsens with activity. A podiatrist may recommend orthotics, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, or, in severe cases, surgical correction. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. 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 Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain from running often results from repeated stress on the foot. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves strain on the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects to the heel. Other causes of heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, heel stress fractures, or joint and nerve irritation. People with flat feet or high arches may be more prone to heel pain, especially if they wear shoes without proper support. Running on hard surfaces, increasing mileage too quickly, or having poor foot alignment can also add pressure to the heel. A podiatrist can examine the foot and determine the exact source of pain. Based on the diagnosis,  this type of doctor may recommend a gait analysis, custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or surgery, in severe cases. Early attention to heel pain can help prevent long-term damage. If you experience heel pain from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Taking care of the feet is especially important for individuals living with diabetes. High blood sugar over time can damage nerves and reduce blood flow, making it harder to feel injuries and for wounds to heal. A small cut or blister can turn into a serious infection, if left unnoticed. Dry skin, thick nails, and poor circulation can also contribute to foot problems that may not be immediately painful. Checking the feet every day for changes in color, swelling, or sores can help catch problems early. Wearing well-fitting shoes and keeping the skin clean and moisturized are simple steps that make a big difference. Regular foot exams by a podiatrist can also help prevent more serious complications. If you have diabetes and notice any signs of irritation, numbness, or changes in the skin of the feet or nails, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle. This can lead to tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain in the foot and ankle. Causes include hindfoot deformities, diabetes, hypothyroidism, excess weight, and excessive use of alcohol or tobacco. These factors can increase pressure around the nerve or contribute to nerve damage. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition using physical exams and imaging, then recommend treatment such as bracing or custom orthotics. If you are experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.