September 2022

A bunion is a bony bump that can develop on the side of the big toe. If a patient does not respond to more conservative treatments to correct this deformity, then a surgical procedure might be recommended in some cases. Following the surgical procedure, your podiatrist may advise that some kind of physical therapy is performed. Cryotherapy, or cold therapy, might be recommended where the intention is to decrease swelling in the affected area. Potential physical therapy options might also include some kind of gait training, where a physical therapist helps you walk normally or correct any limping tendencies. Lastly, proprioceptive balance training might be another form of physical therapy that is meant to improve and increase stability. If you have bunions and want to learn more about physical therapy following a surgical procedure, contact a podiatrist today.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. 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 one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a nerve condition that causes severe pain in the ball of the foot. It usually involves damage to the nerves that run between the third and fourth toes. Some link the feeling to that of having a small pebble in their shoe. The tissue around the nerve becomes thickened which can cause burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes. Morton’s neuroma may also cause numbness and tingling. Many believe that wearing high-heeled shoes is a factor in the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some relief may be found by switching to footwear with a lower heel and a wider toe box. Other treatment options include rest, pain medication, orthotics, and injections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If the pain in the ball of the foot persists or gets worse, it is wise to visit a podiatrist for an exam as well as more advanced treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Reflexology is a popular form of foot therapy. It is performed by applying pressure to certain reflex points on the feet which are connected to specific organs. Patients have noticed their ailments may be diminished as a result of having this type of therapy done, and it may produce a healing response in the overall body. Some therapists lightly touch the heels and surrounding areas and may pull on the toes. Having a massage performed is another form of foot therapy. This targets the tissues to relieve tension in the muscles and may possibly improve circulation. The benefits of reflexology can include boosting the immune system, balancing the body’s energy, and reducing toxins in the body. There are additional bonuses for both types of therapies, and if you would like more information, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine which is right for you.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many people believe when their foot fits into a sneaker or shoe, it is a perfect match. This may not necessarily be true because there are many factors to consider in shoe size. These can include finding the right shoe length in addition to the proper width and volume. It is suggested to have a thumbnail space between the end of the longest toe and the top of the shoe. This can be checked by standing in the shoes with the foot as far back as possible and this often provides an accurate measurement. The space in the top of the shoe can allow room for the feet as they swell during the day. The width of the shoe is just as important and when this is perfect, the foot will fit snugly across the middle of the shoe. The volume of the shoe indicates the foot sliding into the shoe easily and there is no pressure felt on top of the foot. If you would like more information about how to fit shoes properly, please contact a podiatrist who can help you with any questions you may have.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.