Possible Causes of Lower Leg Pain

Lower leg pain can stem from various causes, including muscle strains, shin splints, or injuries to the Achilles tendon. Conditions like tendonitis, stress fractures, or circulation problems such as deep vein thrombosis may also lead to discomfort. Pain can vary from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations depending on the underlying issue. Common symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking or standing. Achilles tendon injuries, in particular, often cause pain along the back of the leg, near the heel, and may worsen with physical activity. Rest is essential to manage lower leg pain. If your pain is persistent or worsens, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

  • Repetitive stress or overuse

  • Sudden increase in activity levels

  • High impact injury

  • Calf muscle tightness or weakness

  • Altered foot biomechanics

  • Heel bone spurs

  • Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

  • Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

  • Chronic heel and calf pain

  • Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

  • A popping or snapping sensation

  • Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

  • Ankle and calf stiffness

  • Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

  • Swelling

  • Difficulty walking 

Treatment

  • Resting the affected leg

  • Applying ice 

  • Compressing the foot and ankle

  • Elevating the injured leg 

  • Wearing orthotics

  • Low impact exercises

  • Stretches

  • Strengthening exercises 

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

  • Cortisone injections

  • Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Heel Pain

Heel pain can range in severity from mild and annoying to severe and debilitating. Usually caused by an injury, heel pain can become chronic if it's left untreated. There are many different types of injuries that can bring about heel pain. When describing your pain, it is important to note the location and type of pain, as well as when the pain started and what activities make it better or worse. 

Perhaps the most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to repetitive overuse or trauma. This condition causes stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel. The pain is usually at its worst when you take your first few steps after a period of rest, like when you first get up in the morning. Plantar fasciitis is also sometimes accompanied by bone spurs, calcium deposits on the heel bone that can cause sharp pain that gradually evolves into a dull ache. Other possible causes of heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, heel fractures, bursitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and Sever’s disease. 

Although treatment for heel pain depends on the underlying cause, most treatments involve resting, icing, and elevating the affected foot. Your chiropodist will also typically suggest that you wear more comfortable, supportive shoes or orthotics to help your heel heal. Over-the-counter pain medications are usually sufficient to manage heel pain. For more information about heel pain, please consult with a chiropodist.

Common Causes of Heel Pain in Children

Heel pain in children can arise from various conditions, each affecting their ability to play and stay active. One common cause is Sever's disease, an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel that often occurs during periods of rapid growth, causing pain and discomfort during physical activity. Achilles tendinitis is another contributor, resulting from overuse or strain of the Achilles tendon, causing pain at the back of the heel. Plantar fasciitis, though less common in children, can occur and is characterized by pain in the bottom of the heel, especially after periods of rest. Additionally, fractures from sports injuries or falls can lead to significant heel pain. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can determine the cause and treat it accordingly.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

  • Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs

  • Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness 

  • Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time 

  • Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking

  • Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel

  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs. 

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Broken Toe

Broken toes are a serious injury that requires prompt medical care. A toe bone can fracture following a sudden, traumatic injury, such as dropping a piece of furniture on the toe or stubbing it. If a toe bone has broken, you may hear a cracking sound at the time of injury. Shortly afterward, you will likely experience throbbing pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected toe. In more severe cases, the broken bone may be displaced and resting at an odd angle, or it may be poking through the skin. A severe injury requires immediate medical care. 

A chiropodist can diagnose a toe fracture by taking your medical history, examining the toe, and taking an X-ray. The right treatment for you will depend on the severity of the injury. Less severe fractures are usually treated conservatively. You will likely be asked to rest the affected foot. The chiropodist may buddy tape your broken toe to the toe right next to it in order to keep the broken toe in the right position for healing. Icing the affected toe and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication can help reduce pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reset the bones. Sometimes, medical hardware like pins or screws is needed to help the toe heal properly. 

Proper healing is very important, as a broken toe that does not fully heal or that doesn’t heal correctly can cause osteoarthritis later on in life. Your toe will likely be tender and swollen for several weeks following the injury. You will typically need to rest the toe for one to two months before resuming your usual activities. If you suspect that you may have broken your toe, please schedule an appointment with a chiropodist near you. 

 

Have I Broken My Toe?

Identifying a broken toe can be essential for seeking timely treatment. One of the most immediate signs is intense pain, often sharp and worsening with movement or pressure. The affected toe may appear swollen, and its size can noticeably change compared to the others. Additionally, the shape of the toe may be altered, appearing crooked or misaligned. Discoloration is another key indicator as bruising or redness surrounding the injury can signal trauma. Some people may also experience difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to consult a chiropodist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care. Timely intervention can facilitate proper healing and prevent complications, ensuring a quicker return to normal activities. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat a broken toe.

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

  • Throbbing pain

  • Swelling

  • Bruising

  • Cracking sound at the time of injury

  • Difficulty bearing weight on the toe

  • Difficulty walking

  • Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

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

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that can affect the foot. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid levels become excessive, this substance can create crystals in the joints, causing severe pain, intense swelling, redness, and warmth. Typically this occurs in the big toe joint. 

You may be at an increased risk of developing gout if you are a middle-aged man or postmenopausal woman, have family members who have had gout, drink alcohol, take certain medications, or have a medical condition like high blood pressure, kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea. Gout may also be more likely to develop if you consume a diet high in sugars or purines, a substance that turns into uric acid when it breaks down. Foods high in purines include organ meats, red meat, oily fish, certain vegetables, beans, and mushrooms. 

Gout that is left untreated can become chronic and lead to arthritis. Gout can be treated by a chiropodist. Treatment options may include taking medications to relieve pain and prevent future gout attacks, modifying your diet, and reducing alcohol intake. For more information about gout, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Facts About Tophaceous Gout

Tophaceous gout is a severe form of gout that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints and soft tissues, forming hardened lumps called tophi. These lumps can cause noticeable swelling and excruciating pain, which often leads to reduced mobility and increased joint stiffness. Tophaceous gout typically attacks the big toe and develops in people who have had untreated or poorly managed gout for years. Symptoms of gout include sudden intense pain, redness, and warmth surrounding the affected joint. Over time, repeated flares can lead to the formation of tophi, which may cause permanent joint damage if left untreated. A chiropodist can help manage the foot-related symptoms of gout by offering treatment options, advice on lifestyle changes, and suggestions for footwear to minimize discomfort. Managing uric acid levels and receiving regular care can prevent gout from progressing to more serious stages. If you have toe pain related to gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice on relief solutions.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Gout?

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of gout include: 

  • Sudden and severe pain

  • Swelling

  • Redness

  • Warmth 

  • Joint stiffness

  • Joint deformity

Diagnosis

A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid. 

Treatment

Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.  

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

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Toe Pain

The toes are hard at work every time you stand, walk, run, hop, skip, or jump. They help to push the foot off the ground and to keep you balanced. When a toe is in pain it can negatively impact your normal daily activities. Among the numerous causes for toe pain, the chief one is trauma, such as stubbing a toe or dropping something heavy on it. This often causes severe bruising and affects your ability to bear weight. Other common causes of toe pain are bunions, hammertoes, nerve damage, and toenail problems. In addition, toe pain can be caused by gout (a type of arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, or warts. Further causes include toenail infections, ingrown toenails, and athlete’s foot infections. Treatment by a chiropodist varies according to the underlying cause of the pain. In case of a broken or severely bruised toe, the remedy is usually to brace or splint the toe. Certain medications can be prescribed to relieve pain and injections may be administered. X-rays and imaging tests may be performed to determine the cause and severity of the toe pain. Custom orthotics may also be prescribed and fitted to counteract toe deformities or other problems. If your toe pain continues or worsens, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options. 

Causes of Black Toenail After Running

Running is a fantastic exercise, but it can sometimes lead to toenail injuries or loss, particularly among those who run frequently or wear ill-fitting shoes. Repeated pressure or trauma, often from shoes that are too tight or a long downhill run, can cause blood to pool under the nail, turning it black. In severe cases, a black toenail may become painful and detached from the nail bed. Other causes of black toenails include fungal infections, which thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty running shoes, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. While mild cases may resolve on their own, a chiropodist can evaluate the cause and offer treatment options. These might include draining built-up blood, addressing fungal infections, or recommending better-fitting footwear to prevent future issues. If you have a black toenail related to running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

Toe pain is common and can have a variety of causes. Causes can range from a broken toe to an ingrown toenail. Many types of toe pain can be corrected, but any toe pain that inhibits your activities for an extended period should be discussed with a chiropodist. If you suffer from toe pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your feet.

Common Causes of Toe Pain 

  • Trauma or fracture
  • Cuts, sores, or bruises
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout
  • Turf Toe
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Blisters
  • Corns
  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Plantar warts
  • Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Toe Pain

  • Toe deformity
  • Burning
  • Numbness
  • Toenail deformity
  • Wart or ulcer
  • Swelling
  • Redness

When to See a Chiropodist

  • Bleeding or severe swelling
  • Trauma, such as a broken bone
  • Discoloration or extreme swelling
  • Inability to bear weight
  • Persistent pain
  • Wounds that won’t heal

Diagnosis of Toe Pain

A chiropodist can conduct a thorough examination of the painful toe or toes in order to determine the best course of treatment. The exam may include assessing the tenderness of the area, taking an X-ray or other diagnostic test, or assessing your gait and range of motion. A discussion of what led to the advanced pain issue may follow. Included will likely be a health history, as well as a list of medications you are taking and other previous injuries you may have sustained.

Treatment for Toe Pain

With such a wide range of possible causes for toe pain, treatment can be varied in scope and length. Sometimes, the chiropodist will recommend lifestyle and activity changes. In cases of trauma or other injuries, X-rays or imaging tests will likely be used to determine the severity of the problem, particularly if any bones have been broken. Treatment may also include injections of pain-relief medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Certain injuries will require the splinting, bracing, or wrapping of injured toes. Orthotics or special shoes may be prescribed in cases of bone deformities and gait issues. Removal of warts, calluses, and corns may be needed. In other cases, such as with patients who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing treatment may be required to avoid more serious problems. 

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