A bunion causes a bony bump to develop at the base of the big toe. This bump forms when the big toe gradually shifts toward the smaller toes, causing the joint to move out of alignment. Over time, the joint may become enlarged, making it more noticeable and often painful. Bunions can develop due to inherited foot structure, abnormal foot mechanics, or long-term pressure on the joint. Common bunion symptoms include foot pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing certain types of shoes. As the condition progresses, the big toe may continue to drift inward, leading to increased discomfort and changes in foot shape.

Although bunions develop slowly, they can significantly affect daily activities and overall foot health. Many people experience pain while walking, standing, or exercising. In some cases, the joint may become stiff, limiting the normal movement of the big toe. Severe bunions can also place pressure on neighboring toes, sometimes causing additional foot problems, such as corns, calluses, or overlapping toes. Because bunions do not typically improve on their own, professional evaluation is important when symptoms begin to interfere with mobility or quality of life. Early diagnosis can help determine the severity of the condition and identify the most appropriate treatment options.

A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who can diagnose and treat bunions at every stage of development. During an evaluation, a podiatrist will examine the foot, assess joint alignment, and may use imaging studies to better understand the condition. Treatment recommendations are based on the severity of symptoms and the impact on daily activities. Options may include custom orthotics, footwear modifications, padding, or surgical correction for advanced cases. Seeking timely podiatry care can help relieve discomfort, improve foot function, and reduce the risk of further joint deformity. If you are experiencing bunion pain, swelling, difficulty walking, or changes in the alignment of your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact John Jachimiak, DPM of Boulder County Foot & Ankle. 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 Boulder, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It handles significant force while walking and especially when running. This makes it vulnerable to injury when movement mechanics are abnormal. While most stress travels in a straight upward and downward direction, unusual side-to-side or forward and backward motion can place added strain on the tendon. This may happen when a person changes the way they walk or run. Reasons include pain, weakness, poor recovery, or altered movement patterns after an injury. The Achilles tendon does not respond well to twisting, compression, or abnormal directional stress, which can increase the chance of ongoing irritation or repeat injury. Proper healing after an Achilles problem is important to restore normal movement and reduce unnecessary strain on healing tissue. Identifying abnormal gait patterns can play a key role in prevention and recovery. If you have Achilles pain or concerns after an injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact John Jachimiak, DPM of Boulder County Foot & Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toes, usually caused by direct impact or repeated stress. It often appears with symptoms consisting of sudden pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Some people notice the toe looks misaligned or feels tender when touched. This injury can happen from stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object, or from overuse in sports. Risk factors include weak bone density, wearing poor footwear, and active lifestyles that involve running or jumping. Healing time varies, but most cases improve over several weeks with proper care and protection. A podiatrist can confirm the fracture with imaging, ensure proper alignment, and guide treatment to avoid long term problems. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you to an appropriate treatment plan.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact John Jachimiak, DPM from Boulder County Foot & Ankle. our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the foot, especially the joint at the base of the big toe. It develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals within the joint. This can lead to sudden and severe pain, along with redness, swelling, and stiffness. Many people notice that attacks begin quickly, often at night, and can make even light pressure feel unbearable. Risk factors include diet, genetics, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. During gout flare-ups, the joint may appear swollen and warm, and movement can become limited. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through examination and testing, then provide treatment to reduce inflammation and protect joint health. Gout can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact John Jachimiak, DPM from Boulder County Foot & 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 Boulder, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.