Podiatry Blog | Foot Doctor Kentucky

Webbed Toes Explained

Tuesday, 22 July 2025

Webbed toes, also known as syndactyly, occur when two or more toes are joined by skin, soft tissue, or bone. This condition develops during fetal growth when the toes fail to separate completely. The exact cause is often unknown, though genetic factors or certain medical syndromes may contribute. Risk factors include a family history of syndactyly and genetic conditions affecting limb development. While webbed toes may not cause pain or limit function, some individuals seek treatment for cosmetic or functional reasons. A podiatrist can assess the condition and recommend options such as surgery. If you or your child have webbed toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore personalized and professional treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors 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 offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About Bunionette Deformity

Tuesday, 15 July 2025

A bunionette, sometimes called a tailor’s bunion, is a bony bump that forms along the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. It occurs when the fifth metatarsal bone shifts outward while the toe is angled inward, causing pressure and discomfort. This deformity is often linked to genetics, foot structure, or shoes that are too tight across the toes. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and pain that worsens with activity or certain footwear. Over time, the area may become increasingly irritated, especially if the bump rubs against the inside of the shoe. Early treatment may involve changing to wider shoes, using padding, or trying orthotics to reduce pressure. If pain persists despite these efforts, surgical options may be considered to realign the bone. If you are experiencing discomfort near your smallest toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the best course of care.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors 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 offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail Fungus Is a Common Infection

Tuesday, 08 July 2025

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection that causes discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the nail. It often starts as a white or yellow spot under the nail and can spread, if left untreated. Risk factors include increasing age, excess weight, diabetes, psoriasis, and a weakened immune system. Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and can be difficult to eliminate without medical care. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, trim affected nails, and provide antifungal treatments or advanced therapies to restore nail health. If you notice changes in your toenails or have persistent foot infections, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert care and personalized treatment to improve nail appearance and overall foot health.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors 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.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Monday, 07 July 2025

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

Identifying a Toe Fracture

Tuesday, 01 July 2025

A toe fracture is a break in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by trauma such as stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on it, or sports injuries. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. The affected toe may appear crooked or misaligned. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays to confirm the extent and location of the break. A podiatrist can assess the injury and recommend appropriate care, which may include splinting, protective footwear, or, in some cases, surgery. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist promptly to ensure proper healing and to avoid long-term complications.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

Throbbing pain
Swelling
Bruising on the skin and toenail
The inability to move the toe
Toe appears crooked or disfigured
Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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