A bunion is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned, and the tip of the toe gradually shifts toward the others. This condition often develops when the foot rolls inward, as seen with flat feet, placing extra stress on the joint, and it can be worsened by wearing tight or pointy shoes that crowd the toes. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and limited motion of the toe joint that may affect walking and daily comfort. Risk factors include family history, foot structure, and long-term footwear choices. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend custom orthotics, footwear changes, or advanced treatment options. If you have symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Granite State Podiatry Associates. 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 Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain can weaken muscles and reduce joint control, making exercises an important part of recovery. Gentle range of motion movements, like slowly drawing the alphabet with the toes, can help restore mobility without placing excess stress on healing tissues. Stretching the calf muscles may reduce stiffness around the ankle and improve flexibility while walking. As strength improves, controlled exercises like heel raises help rebuild stability by engaging the muscles that support the ankle joint. Balance activities, including standing on one foot, are often used to improve coordination and reduce the risk of repeat sprains. These exercises should progress gradually, since pushing too quickly may delay healing or cause further injury. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability and recommend exercises that match the stage of recovery, while monitoring for ligament damage or joint problems. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, treatment, and exercise options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Ankle pain is a common condition that can limit mobility and affect daily activities. It refers to discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in or around the ankle joint, and may develop suddenly or over time. Causes of ankle pain include infection within the ankle joint which can lead to redness, warmth, and severe discomfort. Arthritis is another frequent cause resulting in joint inflammation, reduced motion, and ongoing pain. Blockage of blood vessels in the leg can also contribute to ankle pain by limiting circulation and slowing healing. A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle through a detailed exam and diagnostic imaging to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may include medication therapy, supportive devices, or management of circulation issues. If ankle pain is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment solutions. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Testing for peripheral artery disease focuses on blood flow to the feet, toes, and ankles. Changes in circulation can affect skin temperature, nail health, healing, and walking comfort. During an exam, a podiatrist checks how well blood is reaching the feet and toes, skin color, and temperature to look for reduced flow. In-office tools allow listening to blood movement and comparing pressure between the ankle and toe, which helps identify peripheral artery disease later in the visit. Findings guide decisions about monitoring, further testing, or surgery when circulation is severely limited. Assessment is important for people with slow-healing sores, numbness, or color changes in the feet. A podiatrist explains results, tracks changes over time, and helps lower the risk of wounds, infection, and loss of limb affecting the feet. For help with foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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