January 2026

Heel bursitis causes pain and swelling at the back of the heel. A bursa is a small fluid filled cushion that helps reduce rubbing between bones and soft tissue. When this cushion becomes irritated, it fills with extra fluid and becomes painful. Heel bursitis often develops from shoes that press or rub against the back of the heel, especially stiff or tight shoes. It can also occur after a sudden increase in walking, time spent on hills, or other forms of exercise. Common signs include tenderness, redness, warmth, and a soft swollen area near the heel. Pain may be worse when wearing shoes or after periods of rest. Although the problem may start mildly, it can worsen if ignored, and interfere with daily movement. If heel swelling or pain continues or limits activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Bunions are a common foot deformity that develop when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes misaligned. This causes the tip of the big toe to lean toward the smaller toes, and creates a visible bony bump along the side of the foot. Bunions often cause symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Over time, the condition may worsen and limit daily activities. Risk factors include genetics, flat feet, arthritis, prolonged use of tight footwear, and repetitive stress on the foot. Although bunions do not always cause pain, they can interfere with balance and walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the deformity, recommend custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and targeted treatments to relieve discomfort and slow progression. If bunion pain is affecting your quality of life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect the joints in the feet, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. The immune system attacks joint tissues, leading to swelling, warmth, and decreased mobility. Symptoms in the feet may include difficulty walking, bunion formation, hammertoes, and joint deformities over time. Causes of RA involve genetic and environmental factors, while risk factors include family history, female gender, age, and smoking. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent joint damage and maintain mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate foot health, provide custom orthotics, recommend supportive footwear, and suggest targeted therapies to reduce pain and inflammation. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatry consultation to protect foot function and relieve discomfort.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Toe pain caused by sesamoiditis often develops when the small sesamoid bones beneath the big toe become irritated from repeated pressure during walking, running, or increased time on hard surfaces. These tiny bones act like pulleys that help the big toe move smoothly and absorb weight with each step. People usually describe a sharp ache directly under the big toe that worsens when pushing off the ground or bending the toe upward. Higher arched feet can place more force under this area, and shoes that lack adequate support, like thin flip-flops, can add further strain. A podiatrist can examine the toe, assess how the sesamoids are functioning, and use imaging to rule out issues like stress fractures. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure under the big toe with offloading inserts, wearing supportive shoes, and changes in activity. Surgery is reserved for rare cases involving ongoing pain or structural problems. If you have symptoms of sesamoiditis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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