A bunion is a bony bump that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint shifts out of alignment. Over time, the toe drifts toward the others, creating pressure, swelling, and discomfort that can make walking or wearing shoes difficult. Genetics, flat feet, arthritis, or years of wearing tight footwear can all contribute to their development. While bunions often progress slowly, they can interfere with mobility, if left unaddressed. Wearing wide shoes, adding protective padding, and using custom orthotics may reduce pressure and ease pain. Anti-inflammatory medication can also bring relief during flare-ups. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to correct the alignment. Taking steps early helps preserve comfort and function. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or changes in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for guidance and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Patricia A. Kirk, DPM of Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It may appear suddenly, causing intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. The skin may look shiny and feel extremely tender, making even the touch of a sheet unbearable. Common causes include a diet high in purines, obesity, certain medications, and genetic factors. Gout attacks can last for days or weeks and may recur if not properly managed. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through physical examination, review of medical history, and tests such as joint fluid analysis or blood work. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, dietary guidance, and long-term management strategies to reduce uric acid levels. Preventive care and lifestyle changes are essential to avoid future flare-ups. A podiatrist can also help rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for accurate diagnosis and care.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. 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 Lexington, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Do your feet and ankles ache for hours after exercise? Do your feet feel stiff and inflexible? Stretching reduces the risk of injury and improves strength and flexibility in other parts of the body, so why not your feet? Since the foundation of our stability and balance originates in the feet, stretching the feet and ankles can become an important addition to your daily routine. A simple ankle stretch involves sitting in a chair with one leg crossed over the other and gently pulling your ankle upwards and downwards several times, using your hands or a band to assist. A similar stretch can be performed with your feet and toes. To learn more about the various stretches for your feet and ankles, talk to a podiatrist today.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Basketball is fast-paced and demanding, making the feet and ankles especially vulnerable to injury. The constant running, jumping, and quick direction changes place significant stress on these areas, often leading to sprains, fractures, or tendon injuries. Ankle sprains are particularly common when a player lands awkwardly after a jump or rolls the foot on another player’s shoe. Stress fractures in the foot bones may also develop from repetitive impact on hard courts. Overuse injuries, such as Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, are frequent in athletes who train heavily without adequate rest. Even minor issues like blisters or bruised toenails can sideline a player, if not properly managed. Early evaluation and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications. Wearing protective footwear, strength training, and proper warm-ups can reduce the risk. If a basketball injury is causing pain in your feet or ankles or limiting performance, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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