Hammertoe and bunion surgery are common procedures used to correct deformities in the toes and forefoot. A hammertoe occurs when a toe becomes bent at the middle joint. A bunion is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe due to joint misalignment. Surgery is often recommended when pain, stiffness, or difficulty wearing shoes are caused by these deformities. Recovery is an essential part of the process and requires careful attention to protect the surgical site and promote proper healing.

After surgery, symptoms such as swelling, discomfort, and limited mobility are expected during the early stages of recovery. The foot may appear red or tender, and walking may be restricted depending on the procedure performed. Controlling swelling is a key focus, as excessive inflammation can delay healing. Elevating the foot and following post-operative instructions can help manage these symptoms. It is also important to monitor for signs of infection, including increased redness or drainage, and report concerns promptly.

Risk factors that may affect recovery include poor circulation, underlying health conditions, and not following care guidelines. One of the most important steps is keeping the foot clean and dry. Avoiding moisture helps prevent infection and protects surgical dressings. Patients are often advised to avoid getting their feet wet until cleared by their provider. Wearing proper shoes that provide support and limit pressure on the surgical area is also critical. Ill-fitting footwear can disrupt healing and cause unnecessary strain.

Successful recovery depends on a combination of rest, proper hygiene, and gradual return to activity. Following medical guidance ensures that the corrected alignment is maintained and complications are minimized. Rehabilitation may include gentle movement and supportive devices as healing progresses. If you have had hammertoe or bunion surgery, it is suggested you consult with your podiatrist for additional recovery guidance. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. 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 Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pediatric flat feet refer to a condition where the arch of the foot is not fully formed or appears to collapse when standing. This is a normal stage in early development, as infants and toddlers naturally have flat feet. The arch begins to develop between the ages of three and six as the foot structure matures. By adolescence, typically around age 14, the arch reaches full development in most individuals.

Symptoms of flat feet in children are often mild, but can become more noticeable as activity levels increase. Some children experience foot fatigue, arch discomfort, or ankle instability. Signs may include inward tilting of the ankles, uneven walking patterns, or complaints of leg or foot pain after exercise. While many children remain symptom free, others may develop issues that affect mobility and comfort.

The causes of flat feet are often related to genetics and biomechanics. Children with a family history of flat feet are more likely to develop the condition. Flexible joints, ligament laxity, and muscle imbalances can also influence arch formation. Additional risk factors include excess body weight and prolonged standing on hard surfaces without proper footwear support.

Walking barefoot can support natural muscle strengthening during early childhood, especially on safe and soft surfaces. It allows the foot to move freely and develop strength. However, proper shoes are important for protection and support during daily activities. Early awareness of symptoms can help prevent long term complications. If your older child has flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice on shoe guidance and management tips tailored to your child’s needs.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of growing straight outward. This problem most frequently affects the big toe and can be very painful. Causes include trimming the nails too short, rounding the corners of the nail, and wearing tight-fitting shoes. Genetics may also play a role. As the nail presses into the toe, the area becomes irritated and inflamed. Inflammation is the body's response to irritation. It includes redness, swelling, and tenderness. Pain can become more intense while walking, standing, or wearing shoes that press against the affected toe.

As an ingrown toenail worsens, symptoms become more severe. The skin along the side of the nail can become swollen, red, and painful to the touch. The nail may appear to curve downward into the skin. In some cases, an infection develops. Signs of infection include drainage, pus, and increased swelling. The toe can also feel warm and become more sensitive when walking. People with diabetes should pay close attention to an ingrown toenail because reduced circulation and nerve damage can make foot problems more serious. Prompt evaluation is important when signs of infection are present or when pain continues to increase.

A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail with a thorough examination of the affected toe. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. A podiatrist may carefully remove the section of nail that is growing into the skin. For recurring cases, part of the nail may be permanently removed to prevent future problems. When infection is present, treatment includes addressing the infection and reducing inflammation. This foot doctor can also identify factors that contributed to the problem and recommend methods to help prevent it from returning. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage linked to prolonged blood sugar changes, and the feet are often affected first. Early signs may be easy to ignore, such as tingling, burning, pins-and-needles sensations, or unusual numbness in the toes. Some people feel sharp, shooting pain, while others notice their feet seem less sensitive to heat, cold, or minor injuries. This loss of feeling can be especially concerning because cuts, blisters, or pressure spots may go unnoticed, and worsen over time. Muscle weakness in the feet can also change the way a person walks, leading to balance problems or foot shape changes. Because these symptoms may develop gradually, many people do not realize nerve damage is progressing. Early evaluation can help identify the problem and reduce the risk of serious complications. If you have unusual foot symptoms and diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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