Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe. As cartilage wears down, the joint can become stiff, painful, and difficult to move. Common symptoms include big toe pain, swelling around the joint, and reduced flexibility when walking. Symptoms may become more noticeable during activities that require the toe to bend, including walking, running, or climbing stairs. Some people also develop a noticeable bump on top of the joint.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing hallux rigidus. Previous injury to the big toe, repetitive stress, abnormal foot structure, and a family history of joint problems may contribute. Because symptoms can develop gradually, early evaluation is important. A podiatrist can examine foot movement, assess walking mechanics, and use X-rays when necessary. Repetitive forefoot pressure can also increase irritation.

Foot orthotics can help reduce stress on the big toe joint, particularly during the early stages of hallux rigidus. Depending on the individual foot structure, a podiatrist may recommend an orthotic device that supports alignment, limits painful joint motion, or redistributes pressure away from the affected area. Treatment may begin with a thorough examination and gait assessment, followed by footwear recommendations and a properly fitted orthotic. The podiatrist may also suggest activity changes and other conservative treatments. Orthotics do not reverse arthritis, but they may improve comfort and daily movement during everyday activities.

Early treatment can help manage hallux rigidus before stiffness and joint damage become more advanced. A podiatrist can monitor changes over time and adjust treatment. If you have hallux rigidus and want to explore using orthotics, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

Custom orthotics can be an important solution for reducing foot pain by targeting its structural causes rather than just the symptoms. When the feet are misaligned, excess strain develops in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often resulting in discomfort in the arches, balls of the feet, or toes. Orthotics are designed to match each foot’s natural shape, supporting proper alignment and evenly distributing pressure to ease pain and improve movement.

Foot pain is commonly caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, or biomechanical issues that place added stress on sensitive areas. By stabilizing the foot and restoring natural motion, custom orthotics help reduce strain, calm inflammation, and promote healing. Many patients experience lasting relief and greater comfort while walking, standing, or exercising.

Created from a detailed assessment using advanced imaging or casting, each pair of orthotics is tailored to your individual needs. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you contact our office for an evaluation and treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hot Springs, AR .

Foot wounds require prompt medical attention because they can become more serious if they do not heal properly. Even a small cut, blister, or sore may develop into a larger problem when bacteria enter the damaged skin or healing is delayed. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve damage face a greater risk of complications, because they may not notice an injury right away. Pressure on the feet from walking and standing can also slow the healing process. Since the feet support the body's weight every day, wounds often need careful monitoring to prevent infection and protect healthy tissue. A professional evaluation is important to determine the severity of the wound and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early podiatry care may also help reduce the risk of long-term complications and preserve foot health.

Symptoms of a foot wound vary depending on the cause and its severity. Many people notice redness, swelling, or pain around the injured area. Others experience drainage or skin that does not appear to be healing as expected. In some cases, an open sore may become deeper or show signs of infection over time. Delayed healing should never be ignored because it may indicate an underlying medical condition or reduced blood flow to the area. Persistent wounds can interfere with walking, limit daily activities, and increase the risk of more serious foot problems. Prompt evaluation allows treatment to begin before the wound becomes more difficult to manage.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating wounds that affect the feet and ankles. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the wound, checks circulation, and looks for signs of infection or tissue damage. Treatment focuses on promoting healthy healing, protecting the affected area, and addressing conditions that may slow recovery. Ongoing monitoring also helps identify changes early and supports better long-term foot health. If you are experiencing a foot wound, delayed healing, or signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can turn a short walk into an unpleasant experience. Each time your heel hits the ground, a heel strike sends force through the heel and ankle. Pain begins when tissues or bones cannot handle that force well. One cause is plantar fasciitis, irritation of the strong band along the bottom of the foot. Another cause is Achilles tendinitis, an irritation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Either problem can result in pain, stiffness, or swelling. 

Other foot problems can make the heel hurt while walking. A stress fracture is a small crack in the heel bone, caused by repeated high-impact activity. A pinched nerve near the ankle can also cause pain, tingling, or numbness around the heel. An irritated fluid-filled sac, called a bursa, near a tendon can hurt. Shoes that lack proper support can add heel strain. A sudden increase in running, jumping, or long-distance walking can do the same. Severe pain after an injury, an inability to bear weight, or major swelling deserves prompt medical attention. Because several problems cause similar symptoms, the location and pattern of pain matter. 

A podiatrist can examine your foot, watch how you walk, and ask when the pain began. Imaging can identify a fracture or hidden problem. After finding the cause, the podiatrist can create a plan that protects the injured area and improves foot support. Treatment options include custom orthotics, a walking boot, or a night splint. An injection might be considered for certain inflammation. Surgery is reserved for select cases that do not improve with other care. A podiatrist can also check your shoes and explain safe activity changes. Early evaluation is essential because walking on an injured heel can limit movement and make pain harder to manage. If you have heel pain while walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM of Arkansas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Toe pain can make standing, walking, and other daily activities uncomfortable. Pain can develop after an injury or a change in normal activity. Foot and toe problems can cause pain, stiffness, or swelling. Changes in sensation can also occur. A toe injury can happen after a fall or direct impact. Repeated pressure from certain activities can also irritate the toes. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can contribute to discomfort by placing added pressure on sensitive areas of the foot.

The location and type of toe pain can provide useful clues about its cause. Pain around the big-toe joint can be related to joint problems or irritation from pressure. Swelling can develop after an injury and make movement difficult. Some patients notice numbness or tingling along with pain. Changes in skin color or temperature can also occur with certain foot problems. Pain can affect the way a person walks, which can place extra stress on other areas of the foot. Persistent symptoms deserve evaluation, especially when pain limits normal movement or becomes more severe.

A podiatrist can evaluate toe pain by examining the painful area and checking how the toes and foot move. The evaluation can include questions about recent injuries, activity changes, and when symptoms began. A podiatrist can also assess shoes to determine whether their fit is contributing to pressure or discomfort. Treatment depends on the cause of the pain and the structures involved. A podiatrist can address problems affecting the joints, nails, or surrounding tissues and recommend treatment that supports comfortable movement. Early evaluation can help prevent a minor problem from becoming more difficult to manage. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM of Arkansas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.