Items filtered by date: August 2025

Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, is a common condition that affects the long bones of the foot. It can feel like a sharp, aching, or burning pain, often worsened by standing, walking, or wearing tight shoes. You may also feel like you are stepping on a pebble, and the area can appear red, swollen, or bruised. Common causes include high-impact activities, wearing unsupportive or ill-fitting shoes, high arches, excess weight, aging, and foot deformities like hammertoes or bunions. Sometimes, stress fractures in the metatarsals can also cause similar discomfort. A podiatrist can examine your foot, order imaging tests, if needed, and recommend effective treatments. These include custom orthotics, shoe changes, and anti-inflammatory medication. Surgery may be needed if the pain is caused by structural issues or fractures. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. 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 Farmington, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn,  often from a sudden twist or awkward landing. Because the ankle joint is small yet bears significant force with each step, it is especially prone to injury. The most common type of ankle sprain, known as an inversion sprain, happens when the foot rolls inward, straining the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Less common are eversion sprains, which occur when the ankle rolls outward. Sprains are classified by severity. A grade I sprain involves mild pain with minimal ligament damage. A grade II sprain causes moderate pain with partial tearing and some looseness of the joint, and a  grade III sprain results in severe pain with complete tearing of ligaments and marked joint instability. Beyond pain, symptoms include swelling, bruising, limited movement, and difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of the injury, and recommend appropriate treatment. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. David Ungar from Personal Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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