Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the small bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help with balance and movement, but can become irritated from repetitive pressure, high-impact activities, or wearing shoes that lack proper cushioning. Dancers, runners, and athletes who frequently push off from the ball of the foot are more prone to developing this condition. Symptoms may include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsens during activity. Resting the foot and wearing supportive footwear with cushioned insoles can help relieve discomfort. In some cases, activity modification and targeted stretches are recommended to prevent recurrence. Paying attention to early signs can help you avoid more serious injury and prolonged healing time. If foot pain interferes with daily movement, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

During pregnancy, many women notice their feet feeling larger or wider. This change is often due to hormonal shifts that relax ligaments, causing the arches to flatten and feet to spread. In addition, weight gain and fluid retention can lead to swelling, discomfort, and balance changes. Common foot conditions during pregnancy include flat feet, overpronation, and heel pain. Some women may also develop varicose veins or experience leg cramps and aching feet. A podiatrist can provide supportive care through custom orthotics, footwear advice, and treatment for pain or swelling. If you are pregnant and experiencing foot changes or discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Ankle bursitis is the inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs called bursae that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near the ankle joint. It is often caused by repetitive motion, prolonged pressure, injury, or wearing poorly fitting shoes. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, warmth, and limited movement in the ankle area, making walking and physical activity uncomfortable. A podiatrist can diagnose ankle bursitis through a physical exam and imaging, then develop a personalized treatment plan. Care may include rest strategies, wearing proper footwear, orthotics, anti-inflammatory therapies, and targeted exercises. If you are experiencing persistent ankle pain or swelling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor 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 office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In certain types of foot surgery, small bones in the front of the foot need to be realigned to reduce pain and improve function. These procedures are often done through tiny incisions, which is called minimally invasive surgery. One of the challenges in this approach is making sure the angle of the bone cut is just right, especially when the surgeon cannot see everything directly. To help with this, some surgeons now use digital angle-measuring tools. These tools provide real-time feedback, allowing for more precise adjustments during the procedure. The goal is to improve the outcome, reduce healing time, and lower the chance of needing further corrections. Using this kind of technology can support better results, especially for people with bunions or other forefoot problems. If you are considering foot surgery and want to understand your options, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can explain the approach that fits your needs.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense joint pain, often starting in the big toe. It happens when there is too much uric acid in the body, which can form sharp crystals in the joints. These crystals lead to swelling, redness, and severe tenderness that may appear without warning, often overnight. Certain foods and drinks, such as red meat, seafood, and alcohol, may increase the risk of a flare-up. Gout attacks can become more frequent or affect other joints, if left untreated. Managing the condition involves lifestyle changes, staying hydrated, and, in many cases, medication to control uric acid levels. Wearing comfortable shoes and avoiding excess pressure on the affected foot can help during flare-ups. If you are experiencing sudden joint pain or swelling in your toe or foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and care plan.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.