Podiatry

Care and Treatment of Foot, Ankle and Leg Disorders

St. Mary’s Physician Associates’ podiatrists specialize in diagnosing, treating and helping to prevent the occurrence of problems and diseases that affect a patient’s feet, ankles and related structures of the leg.

We treat many conditions including:

Arch Problems

There are many possible causes of arch pain, including weight gain, age, overuse, and physical stress. If the pain does not improve or gets worse, it’s time to see a doctor. Not addressing the problem could lead to more serious issues.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a common condition affecting 15 to 25 percent of people at any one time. The fungal infection usually begins between the toes and can spread to other parts of the body and other people. Symptoms include a scaly rash that causes itching and burning. Typically, athlete’s foot can be treated by antifungal medications.

Bone Spurs

Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are bony growths that develop on the edge of a bone. The primary cause of bone spurs is joint damage associated with osteoarthritis. Some bone spurs cause no symptoms and do not require treatment. If treatment is necessary, it will depend on where the spurs are located and how your health is affected.

Bunions and Hammertoes

Both bunions and hammertoes are common conditions of the foot. Bunions are formed when the big toe pushes against the next toe due to wearing tight shoes, foot stress or arthritis. The skin over the bunion might become red and sore and may present additional symptoms of bone deformity, pain and stiffness. Hammertoe is a deformity of the joint of the second, third, fourth or fifth toes. This abnormal curling can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop. The affected toe or toes can be painful or hard to move.

Diabetic Foot Care

A common and costly complication of diabetes, foot ulcers can easily be prevented through self-examination and proper foot care. Learn more.

Flat Feet

Flat feet occurs when the arches on the inside of your feet either don’t develop properly or become flattened due to an injury, obesity, or simply age. Oftentimes there is no pain associated with flat feet, but if you are experiencing pain, it’s time to see a doctor.

Fracture Care/Surgery

Fractures and injuries to the foot bone, such as a broken foot, can cause great discomfort; however, the seriousness of a broken foot varies. Fractures can range from tiny cracks in your bones to breaks that pierce the skin. Treatment is dependent on the site and severity of the injury.

Neuromas

Neuromas, specifically Morton’s neuroma, are a painful condition causing sharp, tingling, burning pain in the ball of your foot and numbness in toes. Treatment may include steroid injections or surgery, if deemed necessary.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Treatment includes pain relievers, physical therapy or arch supports.

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are growths typically appearing on the heels of the feet caused by HPV, which is a virus that enters the body through cuts, breaks or weak spots on the foot bottom. Most plantar warts aren’t a serious health concern and eventually go away on their own. If necessary, plantar warts can be treated at home or possibly removed by a doctor.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon causing pain and tenderness just outside the joint. In most cases, treatment includes rest, physical therapy and pain relievers. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Toenail Problems (Bunions, Nail Fungus, Ingrown Toenails)

Problems with your toenails can be caused by physical activity, heat and moisture, and rubbing on your shoes. They may cause pain, itching and discoloration. These issues are not serious, but should be addressed.