Bunions are characterized by a misaligned joint at the base of the big toe. This creates a noticeable bump and can interfere with normal foot function. Symptoms often include a sharp or aching pain, swelling, and irritation caused by friction against footwear. The big toe may angle inward, leading to crowding of the surrounding toes and increased discomfort during walking or standing.

Risk factors for bunions include inherited foot shape, improper footwear, and repetitive stress on the feet. Wearing high-heeled or narrow shoes can force the toes into an unnatural position, increasing joint pressure. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and flat feet may also contribute to bunion formation. Poor posture and long periods of standing during the workday can worsen symptoms and accelerate joint changes, especially without proper support.

Bunion surgery is considered when pain limits daily activities or conservative care is no longer effective. The goal of surgery is to correct the deformity and restore alignment near the big toe. There are various types of bunion surgery. Osteotomy is a common method that involves cutting and repositioning the bone for improved alignment. Exostectomy removes the enlarged portion of bone to reduce pressure. Arthrodesis permanently fuses the joint, providing stability in cases of severe damage or arthritis. Each method is selected based on individual needs and severity.

Recognizing symptoms and seeking timely care can improve long-term outcomes and restore comfort. Surgical options continue to advance, offering more precise correction and recovery support. If you have a painful bunion, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore the most effective treatment approach for your condition, which may include surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. 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 Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It affects the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. This tissue helps support the arch and absorbs stress during walking. When it becomes irritated or inflamed, pain can develop, especially near the heel. Many people notice sharp discomfort with their first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for a long period of time. The pain may improve with movement but often returns after standing or walking for extended periods of time. Because heel pain can have several causes, a professional evaluation is important to determine whether plantar fasciitis is responsible for the symptoms.

Several factors may increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. These include prolonged standing, repeated stress from physical activity, and foot mechanics that place extra strain on the plantar fascia. Carrying excess body weight may also increase pressure on the feet. Ongoing irritation can make daily activities more difficult and change the way a person walks. This altered movement may place additional stress on the ankle, knee, or hip. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps identify the source of heel pain while evaluating foot structure, movement, and overall function. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before symptoms become more persistent or interfere with normal mobility.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis while evaluating the overall health of the feet. Professional care focuses on relieving heel pain, improving foot function, and reducing stress on the plantar fascia. Treatment is tailored to each patient's symptoms, activity level, and foot structure. Regular follow-up visits also allow recovery to be monitored and treatment plans to be adjusted as needed. If you have consistent heel pain or discomfort on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Custom foot orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to support the feet and improve alignment during movement. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, these devices are tailored to fit the unique contours of each foot. Functional foot orthotics focus on correcting abnormal motion, while custom-molded total contact insoles provide full-surface cushioning and pressure control. These orthotics are commonly used to manage a wide range of foot conditions and improve overall biomechanics.

Common symptoms that may lead to the use of orthotics include arch pain, heel tenderness and swelling. Fatigue after standing or walking is another factor. Misalignment in the feet can also lead to discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. Risk factors include poor footwear choices, repetitive stress from physical activity, and excess body weight. Structural abnormalities, such as flat feet or high arches, are additional risks. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet are especially at risk for developing chronic foot issues.

Different types of orthotics serve different purposes. Functional foot orthotics are designed to correct movement patterns and improve stability. Custom molded total contact insoles focus on distributing pressure evenly and enhancing shock-absorption. These devices help reduce strain on muscles and joints while supporting natural foot motion. They also play an important role in improving balance and reducing the risk of injury during daily activities.

The benefits of orthotics extend beyond comfort. They can improve posture, enhance mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term complications. Proper support allows the body to move more efficiently and with less strain. Orthotics are a practical solution for managing both acute and chronic foot conditions. If you have symptoms that may require orthotics, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for guidance on proper support and treatment options.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Lisfranc injuries affect the middle part of the foot, where the long bones connect with a group of small bones that help create a stable arch. Strong bands of tissue hold these bones together and keep the foot steady while walking and standing. A Lisfranc injury happens when these joints or supporting ligaments are damaged. The injury ranges from a stretched ligament to broken bones and joints that shift out of place. Because the damage occurs deep in the midfoot, it is sometimes mistaken for a simple sprain. A delayed diagnosis can lead to lasting pain and difficulty using the foot normally.

Such injuries often occur after a forceful twist of the foot or a direct blow. Falls, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents are frequent causes. Athletes who run, jump, or change direction quickly face a greater risk. Symptoms include pain in the middle of the foot, swelling, and bruising. Many patients struggle to put weight on the injured foot. Pain often becomes worse while walking or when pushing off the foot. The middle of the foot can also feel unstable. A podiatrist can examine the injured foot and check for tenderness, swelling, and changes in alignment. Weight-bearing X-rays usually provide important information. Advanced imaging, like CT or MRI scans, gives a clearer view when the injury is difficult to confirm.

A podiatrist determines whether the bones remain in their proper position or have shifted. Stable injuries sometimes heal without surgery. More serious Lisfranc injuries may require surgery to restore normal alignment. Prompt diagnosis and proper treatment help reduce the risk of long-term problems, including painful arthritis in the injured joints. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and determine when the foot is ready for increased activity. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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