Non-diabetic foot problems are common and can affect comfort and daily activity. Foot odor is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat. Toe jam, or gunk, can build up between the toes and may lead to irritation or infection. Cracked heels develop when the skin becomes dry and splits, sometimes causing pain with walking. Additionally, friction blisters form when shoes rub against the skin, creating fluid-filled areas that can break open. These issues may seem minor, but they can worsen if ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the skin, nails, and foot structure to find the cause of foot pain and provide proper treatment. Care may include debridement, topical therapy, or footwear guidance. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Christian Smith, DPM from UTOEpia Foot and Ankle Specialist. 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A tailor’s bunion, also called a bunionette, is a bony enlargement that develops at the base of the fifth toe along the outside of the foot. This condition can cause redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain that worsens while wearing shoes or walking for long periods of time. The area may appear enlarged or irritated from rubbing against footwear. Some patients notice burning discomfort or thickened skin over the bump. Tailor’s bunions often develop because of inherited foot structure, abnormal pressure on the foot, or shoes that are too narrow in the toe area. Over time, the fifth toe may begin to shift inward as the bump becomes more noticeable. A podiatrist can evaluate the alignment of the foot and determine the severity of the deformity. Treatment may include wearing wider footwear, padding, targeted exercises, or anti-inflammatory care to reduce irritation and pressure. In more severe cases, surgery may be considered to correct the deformity. If you have a tailor’s bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Christian Smith, DPM of UTOEpia Foot and Ankle Specialist. 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Finding the right running shoe begins with understanding your foot type and gait. Pronation refers to how the foot rolls inward during movement. Neutral pronation occurs when weight is evenly distributed, providing balanced support. Overpronation happens when the foot rolls inward excessively, increasing strain on joints. Supination occurs when the foot rolls outward, reducing shock absorption. Stability running shoes are designed to support overpronation by controlling motion and improving alignment. Neutral running shoes provide cushioning and are best for those with balanced gait or mild supination. Risk factors for improper fit include foot structure and activity level. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, recommend proper footwear, and help with  injury prevention tips. If you enjoy running and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat foot and ankle conditions and guide you on what type of running shoes to buy.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Christian Smith, DPM from UTOEpia Foot and Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Foot and ankle injuries are common in athletes, but they do not occur the same way in men and women. Differences in anatomy, muscle strength, joint flexibility, and movement patterns can influence how stress is placed on the lower extremities. For example, women may be more prone to certain ligament strains due to joint laxity and alignment, while men may experience more high-impact injuries related to force and speed. Foot structure, footwear choices, and training habits also play a role in how injuries develop. Recognizing these differences allows for more personalized prevention strategies, including strengthening, balance training, and proper support. Early evaluation of pain or instability can help prevent minor issues from becoming more serious conditions. Whether you are a competitive athlete or staying active for health, understanding your individual risk matters. If you experience ongoing foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Christian Smith, DPM of UTOEpia Foot and Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.