Items filtered by date: November 2025

Choosing the right shoes plays an important role in easing bunion pain. A bunion develops when the top of the big toe shifts toward the lesser toes, as the base of the toe shifts out of alignment. This results in a bony bump that can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Shoes that are narrow or have pointed toes squeeze the forefoot and press against the bunion, which increases pain and can force the smaller toes to bend. To reduce pressure, shoes should have a wide toe box that gives the toes space, and low heels under two inches that help distribute weight evenly across the foot. Materials like soft leather or flexible fabric can reduce rubbing against the deformity. Added shoe depth allows room for calluses, corns, or inserts that support proper alignment. A podiatrist can guide you in finding appropriate shoes and orthotics to manage the condition. In more severe cases, surgery may be an option if conservative measures do not provide relief. If you have painful bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. 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 Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe can cause significant pain and difficulty walking. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the site of the break, along with difficulty in moving the toe or bearing weight. In some cases, the toe may appear crooked or out of alignment. The most common causes of a broken toe are direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object on it, or sports-related injuries. High-impact activities and wearing improper footwear can also increase the risk. A podiatrist can diagnose a broken toe through a physical exam and X-rays. Treatment typically involves buddy taping the broken toe to a neighboring toe for support. In more severe cases, a splint or surgery may be needed to realign the bones and ensure proper healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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