Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition characterized by episodic narrowing of the blood vessels in response to cold or stress, leading to reduced blood flow. This typically affects the fingers and toes, causing them to turn white, blue, and then red as blood flow returns. The exact cause is not well understood, but it involves overreaction of the blood vessels to cold or emotional stress. When the toes are affected, the reduced blood flow can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling. During an episode, toes may feel cold and painful, and, as circulation improves, they may throb or swell. To manage Raynaud's phenomenon, it is important to keep the feet warm and avoid triggers such as cold temperatures and stress. Wearing warm socks and footwear, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can help prevent episodes. In severe cases, medications may be prescribed to improve blood flow. For persistent or severe symptoms, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease, a common cause of heel pain in growing children, involves inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. This condition occurs during periods of rapid growth, typically affecting active children aged eight to 14. The growth plate, or epiphyseal plate, is an area of developing cartilage tissue at the end of long bones. In Sever's disease, repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping causes inflammation and pain in the heel. Factors such as tight calf muscles, flat feet, or high arches can worsen the condition by increasing tension on the growth plate. Understanding the anatomy of the growing heel and the mechanical stresses involved is vital for identifying and managing Sever's disease. Rest, stretching exercises, and wearing supportive footwear are effective measures to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Pregnancy is a time of profound physical changes, and foot pain can be a common discomfort experienced by many expecting mothers. Several factors contribute to foot pain during pregnancy, including weight gain, hormonal changes, and the body's altered center of gravity. As the uterus expands and the baby grows, additional pressure is placed on the feet, leading to swelling and discomfort. Hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of relaxin, can loosen ligaments and joints in the feet, making them more susceptible to strain and injury. Furthermore, changes in posture and gait due to the shifting center of gravity can put added stress on the feet, leading to pain and fatigue. Additionally, pre-existing foot conditions, such as flat feet or overpronation, may become more problematic during pregnancy. While foot pain during pregnancy is often temporary and resolves after childbirth, supportive footwear, practicing regular foot exercises, and elevating the feet can help alleviate discomfort and promote foot health. If you have developed foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects joints, frequently targeting the feet and ankles. Common symptoms include swelling, pain, and inflammation in the affected joints. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining, leading to chronic inflammation that can damage the joints and surrounding tissues over time. As a result, the foot and ankle joints often become swollen and painful, which can make walking and standing uncomfortable or even debilitating. The swelling is often symmetrical, meaning it typically affects the same joints on both sides of the body simultaneously. Treatment may include medication to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression. Targeted stretching to maintain joint function and orthotics to support the joints and alleviate pressure are other possible measures. Regular visits to a podiatrist, or foot doctor, are important for those with RA to monitor their foot health. If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and the associated swelling in the feet and ankles, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diagnosing Achilles tendon ruptures involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests. The Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. A rupture occurs when this tendon tears, often due to sudden or forceful movements during sports or activities that place excessive stress on the tendon. Symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture typically include a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle or calf, accompanied by swelling and difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe. While this injury can happen to anyone, factors such as age, sports participation, and pre-existing foot problems like flat feet or tendonitis may increase the risk. Treatment options include conservative measures like immobilization to more advanced options, like surgical repair for severe cases. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.