A lump on top of the foot can develop for many reasons, and it is important to have it examined to identify the cause. The human foot contains 26 bones, along with joints, tendons, and soft tissues, all of which may be involved. A soft, fluid-filled lump on top of the foot may be a ganglion cyst, often forming near tendons or joints. A lipoma is a harmless fatty lump beneath the skin. Hard lumps may result from bone spurs, which are bony overgrowths linked to arthritis or repetitive pressure. Fractures, including small stress fractures, can also create a painful bump in response to injury or overuse. Gout, which occurs when uric acid crystals collect in a joint, often produces a swollen, tender lump near the big toe. Other causes include tendonitis, bursitis, bunions, or, in rare cases, rheumatoid nodules or benign tumors. A podiatrist can examine the lump, determine its cause, and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include surgery. If you have an unexplained lump on top of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A stress fracture in the foot is a small, hairline crack in a bone, often caused by repetitive impact or overuse. This type of fracture commonly affects the metatarsals, navicular, or heel bone and can lead to localized pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Most foot stress fractures respond well to non-weight-bearing rest and protective footwear, such as a walking boot or stiff-soled shoe, to reduce pressure during healing. In some cases, a cast or crutches may be needed to keep weight off the affected foot. If the fracture does not heal with conservative care, surgery may be required. This usually involves using screws or pins to hold the bone in place. Recovery can take several weeks, and imaging may be used to confirm healing before resuming activity. If you experience foot pain after repetitive activities like running or participate in certain sports, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain from running often results from repeated stress on the foot. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves strain on the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects to the heel. Other causes of heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, heel stress fractures, or joint and nerve irritation. People with flat feet or high arches may be more prone to heel pain, especially if they wear shoes without proper support. Running on hard surfaces, increasing mileage too quickly, or having poor foot alignment can also add pressure to the heel. A podiatrist can examine the foot and determine the exact source of pain. Based on the diagnosis,  this type of doctor may recommend a gait analysis, custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or surgery, in severe cases. Early attention to heel pain can help prevent long-term damage. If you experience heel pain from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors 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 contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot disorders in the elderly population are common due to natural aging, changes in biomechanics, and the long-term effects of chronic conditions. As people age, their feet may lose strength, flexibility, and cushioning. This process increases the risk of developing arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, and poor circulation. Biomechanical changes can alter walking patterns, leading to instability and discomfort. These issues can impact mobility, independence, and overall well-being. A podiatrist can assess the feet, diagnose underlying problems, and provide personalized treatment, including custom orthotics and footwear recommendations. If you are experiencing any foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Two conditions that can cause foot pain in child runners are Sever’s disease and Iselin’s disease. The first condition, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, affects the growth area at the heel where the Achilles tendon inserts into the bone. It causes heel pain that worsens during running, tenderness under the heel, and sometimes limited ankle bending. Sever's disease often emerges during rapid growth or when training intensity increases suddenly. The second condition, Iselin’s disease, involves pain at the base of the fifth metatarsal, caused by repetitive stress and tension on the growth plate. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area. Both conditions are linked to overuse, tight muscles, faulty foot alignment, and wearing improper or worn‑out footwear. A podiatrist can evaluate your child’s foot structure, gait, and shoe fit to determine a solution. If your child has sustained a foot injury from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.