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Treating and Managing Bunion Pain

Tuesday, 17 February 2026

A bunion is a foot deformity that develops when the big toe shifts toward the lesser toes, creating a bony bump along the side of the foot. This alignment change increases stress on joints and soft tissue. A bunion often causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and trouble wearing shoes. It may worsen due to abnormal foot mechanics, inherited foot structure, or prolonged pressure on the forefoot. A podiatrist helps manage bunions by assessing foot alignment, gait, and deformity severity. Treatment options include shoe modifications, padding, orthotic devices, activity adjustments, and targeted therapies to reduce pressure and slow progression. In advanced cases, surgery may be needed to realign the joint and improve function. For help with managing pain caused by bunions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Causes of Toenail Fungus

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a disorder that affects the nail plate and can slowly spread if untreated. It often begins as white, yellow, or black spots on the toenail that gradually thicken, discolor, and distort the nail. This condition thrives in warm and moist environments, making prevention an important part of foot care. Helpful habits include trimming toenails straight across, discarding old shoes that may contain fungal spores, and wearing protective footwear in pool areas and shared locker rooms. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, provide targeted treatment, and guide long-term prevention to restore healthier nails. If you notice any of these symptoms on your toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

Warped or oddly shaped nails
Yellowish nails
Loose/separated nail
Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Broken Toes and Podiatric Care

Tuesday, 03 February 2026

A broken toe is a fracture of one or more of the small bones in the toe, often resulting from sudden trauma. Common causes include a heavy object falling on the foot, or forceful stubbing against furniture or hard surfaces. Symptoms usually involve pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Discolored toenails may appear when bleeding occurs beneath the nail. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam and imaging, such as X-rays, to confirm the fracture and its severity. Risk factors include sports activities, poor footwear protection, and balance issues. If you have symptoms of a broken toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis, stabilize the toe, manage pain, and guide proper healing.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

Throbbing pain
Swelling
Bruising on the skin and toenail
The inability to move the toe
Toe appears crooked or disfigured
Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Friday, 30 January 2026

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

When a Small Sore Becomes a Serious Concern

Tuesday, 27 January 2026

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open wound that develops when high blood sugar levels affect circulation and nerve function in the feet. These changes make the skin more vulnerable to injury and slow the body’s ability to heal. Ulcers often begin as a small blister, callus, or unnoticed cut, especially in areas that bear pressure. As sensation decreases, many people do not feel pain, allowing the wound to worsen before it is discovered. Early recognition is essential because untreated ulcers can lead to infection and more complex complications. Regular foot checks, proper footwear, and prompt attention to any skin changes help protect overall foot health. A podiatrist can evaluate the ulcer, determine its severity, and recommend appropriate treatment to promote healing. If you notice an open sore on your foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for timely care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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