A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint gradually moves out of its normal position. As the big toe shifts toward the second toe, the joint begins to stick outward and can become painful. This change can make standing, wearing shoes, and walking more difficult. The skin over the bump can become red, swollen, and tender. Some people also notice stiffness in the big toe or have trouble moving the joint through its full range of motion. As the bunion becomes larger, it can affect balance and change the way weight is placed on the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the joint and determine how much the bunion is affecting foot function.

Several factors increase the chance of developing a bunion. Family history plays an important role because foot shape can be inherited. Arthritis can also affect the joint and contribute to the deformity. Wearing shoes that squeeze the toes into a narrow space can place added pressure on the joint and increase discomfort. Shoes that lack proper support can place extra stress on the front of the foot while walking. A podiatrist performs a physical examination and studies the position of the bones in the foot. X-rays are frequently used to measure the alignment of the joint and to help guide treatment decisions.

Treatment depends on the severity of the bunion and the amount of pain it causes. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and reduce pressure on the joint. Padding or splints can also help protect the affected area and improve comfort. When the bunion becomes severe and limits daily activities, surgery can correct the position of the joint and relieve pain. Early evaluation allows a podiatrist to monitor changes in the bunion and recommend treatment before the condition becomes more disabling. If you have symptoms of bunions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM of Detroit, MI. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that develops when too much uric acid builds up in the body. Uric acid is a natural waste product that usually leaves the body through the kidneys. When levels become too high, tiny crystals can collect inside a joint and trigger sudden pain, swelling, and redness. The joint at the base of the big toe is affected most often, although gout can also involve the ankle. A flare-up can begin without warning and cause pain that disturbs sleep or limits normal daily activities. Without proper treatment, repeated attacks can damage the affected joint and reduce comfort while walking.

Several factors increase the risk of gout. These include a family history of the condition, excess body weight, and certain medical conditions. A diet that is high in purines also raises uric acid levels. Purines are natural substances found in foods like anchovies, bacon, and sardines. Beer and other alcoholic drinks can also increase the chance of painful gout flares. A podiatrist can examine the affected foot, review your medical history, and order imaging or laboratory testing when appropriate. Gout symptoms can resemble those of an infection or another type of arthritis. For that reason, identifying the true cause allows treatment to begin promptly.

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, protecting the affected joint, and lowering the chance of future attacks. A podiatrist can recommend a treatment plan and work with other healthcare providers when additional medical management is needed. Regular follow-up visits help monitor joint health and evaluate your progress. Patients also benefit from guidance about healthy eating patterns, weight management, and limiting foods and drinks that increase uric acid levels. These steps can reduce the frequency of gout attacks and help protect the joints from lasting damage. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips and help in managing this chronic condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heel becomes dry, thickened, and unable to stretch properly under pressure. This condition often affects the outer edges of the heel where the skin expands during standing and walking. Without adequate moisture and elasticity, the skin splits, creating visible cracks that can deepen over time. Cracked heels are a common foot concern and can range from mild dryness to painful fissures that interfere with daily movement.

Symptoms typically begin with dry and rough skin that may appear flaky or scaly. As the condition progresses, the skin thickens and forms calluses around the heel. Visible cracks may develop, sometimes accompanied by redness or irritation. In more advanced cases, the fissures can become painful and may even bleed, especially when pressure is applied during walking. If left untreated, deep cracks can increase the risk of infection and further skin breakdown.

Several risk factors contribute to the development of cracked heels. Prolonged standing, especially on hard surfaces, places repeated stress on the heel. Wearing open-backed or poorly fitting shoes can allow the heel to expand excessively, leading to skin splitting. Dry climates, dehydration, and inadequate foot care also play a role. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or skin disorders, may be more prone to severe dryness and cracking.

The primary cause of cracked heels is a combination of dry skin and mechanical pressure. Prevention focuses on consistent foot maintenance, including regular moisturizing, gentle exfoliation, and wearing supportive footwear. Keeping the skin hydrated helps maintain flexibility and reduces the risk of fissures. If cracked heels are present or worsening, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Everyday foot care is an important part of maintaining overall health and mobility. The feet contain numerous bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments that work together to support the body during standing, walking, and other daily activities. Because the feet absorb significant pressure throughout the day, even minor problems can affect comfort and movement. Common foot concerns include calluses, corns, nail problems, and heel pain. Ignoring these issues may lead to discomfort that interferes with work, exercise, and everyday routines. Paying attention to foot health can help identify concerns early and support long-term mobility.

Foot problems can develop gradually and may not always cause immediate symptoms. Changes in foot shape, skin condition, or walking patterns can sometimes indicate an underlying issue. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet or participate in regular physical activity may place additional stress on the feet and ankles. Over time, this strain can contribute to pain, fatigue, and reduced function. Certain health conditions may also affect circulation and sensation in the feet, increasing the importance of regular foot evaluations. Because healthy feet are essential for balance and movement, addressing concerns before they become more serious can help preserve overall quality of life.

Podiatric care focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, gait, and overall foot health to identify problems that may be affecting comfort or mobility. Professional care may help manage common issues such as foot pain, skin concerns, and nail disorders while supporting proper foot function. Regular podiatric evaluations can also help detect changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. By promoting healthy feet and addressing concerns early, podiatric care can play an important role in maintaining an active lifestyle. If you are experiencing foot pain or other foot-related concerns, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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