Foot Conditions

There are more than 300 different foot conditions. Some are inherited, but for most people, foot problems stem from the impact of years of use. Many common foot conditions are treated successfully through non-surgical methods. More serious foot conditions require advanced treatment. Whether you have minor foot pain or a more serious foot condition, the specialists at the Southwest Ankle and Foot Center in Tucson, AZ can help.

Learn about Conditions of the Foot

Our feet are very complex. They house a quarter of the bones in the body, as well as a network of muscles, ligaments and joints. They are also vulnerable to injury and disease. Learn more about foot anatomy and common foot conditions such as bunions, fractures, hammertoes, claw toes, interdigital neuroma and plantar fasciitis.

Foot Pain

Research shows that only a fraction of those suffering from foot pain seek professional help. A common misconception is that sore feet are normal; they are not. Just as you would visit your dentist for a toothache, you should see a foot specialist if you suffer from sore or aching feet. The cause of your foot pain may be due to problems with biomechanics, inappropriate footwear, infection or injury. Chronic foot pain can also be a sign of systemic disease.

If you suffer from chronic foot pain or have a foot condition that prevents you from walking or running, we encourage you to seek professional help. Our surgeons and specialists are experts in the management of foot problems. They are trained to make diagnoses and provide treatment for common and complex foot conditions.

Toe Deformity and Instability

Deformity of the lesser toes, particularly of the second toe, is sometimes related to instability. This abnormality, which ranges in severity from synovitis of the metatarsophalangeal joint to dislocation and chronic deformity (hammertoe, claw toe, or crossover toe), has become a well-recognized problem. Generally, lesser toe deformities occur in women who wear constrictive high-heeled shoes and athletes with chronic overuse and hyperextension of the toes. Abnormalities of the greater toe, such as in Hallux valgus, are often associated with instability.

The Development of Foot Conditions

Older people are at a greater risk of developing serious foot conditions. By the time we reach the age of 50, our feet have covered a lot of distance, making them more prone to injury and disease. Clinical studies show that by the age of fifty, we are 80% more likely to develop arthritis in the foot and ankle as well as being 100% more likely to develop toe and joint deformities.

As we age, our feet tend to spread and lose the fatty pads that cushion the bottom of the feet. If we are carrying extra weight, this can also affect the bone and ligament structure. Orthopedic foot specialists are qualified to treat arthritis and other complex foot conditions that develop with age.

Working feet absorb heavy loads during long periods of standing, lifting, jumping and climbing. Nearly 20% of all workplace injury claims are relate to injuries of the feet and toes. Research has shown that workplace foot problems, including those related to ill-fitting or inappropriate footwear, are common. We treat work-related foot problems with advanced tools and techniques that help strengthen and condition the feet.

The Southwest Ankle & Foot Center in Tucson, AZ

At the Southwest Ankle and Foot Center, treatment is available for many common and complex foot conditions. We provide surgical and non-surgical treatment for bunions, toe deformities, diabetic foot disorders, tumors, arthritis, tendon problems, fractures, dislocations and more. Visit the Southwest Ankle & Foot Center in Tucson, AZ.