Problems With Foot Bones

Problems with bones in the foot result in a number of foot disorders. These disorders cause pain and discomfort that may even lead to surgery. If pain in the foot is persistent, the best course of action is a visit to a podiatrist. If problems are diagnosed early, your physician may be able to employ a noninvasive approach to treatment.

Heel Spurs

• Heel spurs are calcium deposits that build up on the heel bone from overextension of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that stretches from the heel to the forefoot. This overextension is either caused by abnormally high arches or flat feet. The calcium builds up over time until a bony protrusion forms on the heel. This condition eventually causes a great deal of pain when pressure is applied to the heel. Treatments include arch support for those who develop heel spurs as a result of flat feet. For individuals with high arches, doctors often recommend stretching exercises or shoes with cushioning around the heels to absorb shock.

Bunions

• A bunion is a bump that forms on the side of the bone in the big toe. Bunions form over the course of many years as a result of the way people naturally walk or stand. At first the big toe leans toward the second toe, which throws off the alignment of the forefoot. After a while, a bump forms on the big toe's bone and gradually becomes larger. Symptoms such as redness, burning and numbness occur at the site of the bunion. Wearing shoes that crowd the toes often exacerbates symptoms. Treatments include changing footwear to looser shoes, padding the bunion and taking anti-inflammatory drugs. If pain is severe and noninvasive remedies have failed, surgical removal is an option.

Sesamoiditis

• Sesamoids are a set of small bones inside the tendons that go to the big toe from inside the ball of your foot. These bones work with the tendons to give the big toe more leverage. Whenever you push against the big toe during activities such as running or dancing, you use the sesamoids. Increased activity and pressure on the balls of your feet can cause these bones to become inflamed or fractured. If sesamoiditis is mild, your physician will likely recommend resting your feet to give the bones time to heal. Sometimes doctors prescribe a shoe pad or insert to help cushion the area. Another common treatment is applying ice to the area after vigorous activity to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Anti-inflammatories may be prescribed in some cases.