Bunions develop when the joint at the base of the big toe gradually changes position. The big toe leans toward the smaller toes, creating a noticeable bump along the inside of the foot. This change may cause pain, redness, and swelling around the joint. Some people notice stiffness when bending the big toe. Others feel pressure while wearing shoes, especially those with narrow toe areas. Family history and foot structure influence the development of bunions. Arthritis may also affect the joint and increase discomfort. A bunion sometimes makes walking difficult because the big toe helps support the body with each step. The bump itself is not simply extra bone. It reflects a change in the position of the joint beneath the skin.

A podiatrist examines the foot to determine how the bunion affects movement and comfort. The examination includes checking toe alignment, joint flexibility, and areas of tenderness. X-rays may show the position of the bones and the extent of the change. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure and improving daily comfort. A podiatrist may recommend shoes with enough room around the toes. Custom orthotics may help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Protective padding may reduce rubbing against the bunion. The podiatrist also evaluates nearby toes for changes caused by crowding. Treatment choices depend on symptoms rather than the size of the bump alone. Regular evaluations help track changes in joint position and walking comfort.

Bunion discomfort sometimes leads patients to shift their weight while standing or walking. These changes may place additional strain on other parts of the foot. A podiatrist studies the patient's walking pattern and recommends support suited to their needs. Follow-up appointments assess pain, skin irritation, and joint movement. Although noninvasive treatment does not straighten the underlying bones, it may relieve symptoms and support comfortable activity. Increasing pain or difficulty finding comfortable shoes deserves another thorough examination. Early attention helps patients understand their options and address problems before daily activities become harder. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Vadim Glukh, DPM of North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Cracked heels, also called heel fissures, develop when dry, thickened skin around the heel begins to split. Calluses may form along the edge of the heel, and deeper cracks can become uncomfortable or increase the risk of infection. Several factors can contribute to cracked heels. Dry climates and colder winter weather may make the skin more likely to crack. Frequently wearing backless shoes can also create thickened skin around pressure points of the heel. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces may contribute to the problem. Cracked heels can affect anyone, although age and certain medical conditions may increase the likelihood of developing dry skin.

Sometimes, cracked heels are connected to an underlying health or skin problem rather than weather or footwear alone. Eczema can cause dry, cracked skin and may affect the feet. Diabetes and psoriasis can also contribute to heel problems. Other possible causes include hypothyroidism, an autoimmune disorder, and infections like athlete’s foot. Because several conditions can produce dry or damaged skin, identifying the reason for recurring heel cracks is important. People with diabetes should be particularly careful with cracked heels because skin damage can create additional concerns. Severe cracks or heel fissures that do not improve should receive professional medical attention.

A podiatrist can examine cracked heels and determine whether pressure, footwear, or an underlying medical issue may be contributing to the problem. Professional evaluation is especially important when the cracks become deep or painful. A podiatrist can also check for signs of infection and determine whether another foot condition is affecting the skin. Treatment can be based on the severity and cause of the heel fissures rather than simply addressing their appearance. Proper footwear and supportive heel cushioning may also be recommended as part of professional care. If cracked heels become painful, persistent, or concerning, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Vadim Glukh, DPM from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Toenail fungus is an infection that affects the nail plate or the nail bed. It develops when fungi enter through a crack in the nail or skin. The infection can make a toenail thick, brittle, or crumbly. Some nails may turn yellow or white, and develop an unpleasant odor. Toenail fungus can begin in one nail and spread to others, if it is not treated. The infection can also trigger infectious skin lesions on other skin areas.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing a fungal nail infection. Walking barefoot in damp public areas can expose feet to fungi. Wearing tight shoes may trap moisture around the toes, creating an environment where fungi can grow. Older adults may have a higher risk because nails can become thicker and circulation may change with age. People with diabetes, a weakened immune system, or athlete’s foot are more likely to develop toenail fungus.

Symptoms can develop slowly, so the infection may be easy to overlook. Affected nails may become thick, rough, or separated from the nail bed. The skin around the nail can become irritated or tender. A podiatrist will examine the nail and may collect a small sample to confirm that fungus is causing the changes. Treatment options include trimming and thinning the nail, prescription antifungal medication, or other care. Keeping feet clean and dry also helps reduce recurrence.

Toenail fungus is treatable, but it often requires patience because healthy nails grow slowly. A podiatrist can create a treatment plan based on the severity of the infection and your foot health. Early care may help prevent the fungus from spreading to other nails or skin. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Vadim Glukh, DPM of North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects children and can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced joint movement. When inflammation involves the feet and ankles, children may experience swollen and tender joints, difficulty walking, and reduced participation in play or sports. Foot and ankle disability can develop when inflammation affects joint function and changes normal movement. Risk factors may include immune system dysfunction, family history of autoimmune disease, and genetic influences. Early evaluation can protect mobility and quality of life.

A podiatrist starts by examining the child’s feet, ankles, footwear, and activity level. The examination may include a gait assessment and review of medical information from the child’s healthcare team. If additional support is needed, custom foot orthotics may be recommended. These devices are designed around the child’s foot structure and symptoms. Orthotics can help stabilize the feet, distribute weight more evenly, and support comfortable movement during activities.

For children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, properly fitted orthotics may reduce mechanical stress around painful areas and improve how forces move through the feet and ankles. Better pressure distribution can make walking more comfortable and may reduce strain associated with swollen and tender lower joints. Orthotics do not treat the underlying inflammation, but they can complement medical care by supporting mobility and function. A podiatrist may also recommend supportive shoes, activity changes, and regular follow-up.

Improving comfort can help children participate more confidently in school, exercise, and other activities. Because children grow quickly, orthotics should be checked regularly for fit and effectiveness. If your child has foot pain from this or any other foot or ankle condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if orthotics can provide the relief that is sought.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Vadim Glukh, DPM from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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