Corns are thick, hardened areas of skin that form when repeated pressure or rubbing affects a specific part of the foot. They often develop on the toes, between the toes, or on the soles of the feet. A corn can have a hard center and feel tender when pressure is placed on it. Shoes that are too narrow or do not fit properly can increase pressure on the toes. A toe that bends or sits differently can rub against a shoe and create friction. Corns are different from calluses because they usually form in a smaller, more focused area. They are not contagious, but they can become painful and make standing or walking uncomfortable.

A podiatrist can examine a corn and determine what is causing the repeated pressure. This evaluation can also help distinguish a corn from other skin problems, including a plantar wart. Care focuses on reducing pressure and relieving discomfort. A podiatrist can safely remove thickened skin, recommend changes that reduce rubbing, and assess whether a foot shape or toe problem is contributing to the corn. Removing a corn without addressing the source of pressure can allow it to return.

In some cases, a corn is connected to an underlying bone or toe problem. When other treatments do not provide enough relief, a podiatrist can discuss whether surgery is appropriate. Surgery can address a structural problem that continues to create pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist can explain the available options based on the location and severity of the corn. Patients with reduced sensation in their feet also need careful evaluation because they might not notice an injury caused by a corn. Professional assessment can help protect the skin and reduce complications, especially when symptoms are persistent or severe. Corns can be painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in one of the bones of the foot caused by repetitive force or overuse rather than a single traumatic event. These injuries are common among athletes, runners, and individuals who increase activity levels too quickly. The bones in the foot are designed to absorb impact, but repeated stress without adequate rest can weaken the bone structure. This leads to tiny fractures that may worsen if not addressed. Understanding this condition is essential for early detection and proper care.

Symptoms of a foot stress fracture often begin gradually and may include tenderness in a specific area of the foot. Many individuals experience a deep, dull pain that worsens during activity and improves with rest. Swelling may develop around the affected area, and weakness in the foot can make walking uncomfortable. As the injury progresses, pain may become more constant and noticeable even during daily activities. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for a minor strain, which makes awareness especially important.

Risk factors for foot stress fractures include sudden increases in physical activity, and repetitive high-impact movements. Individuals with low bone density or poor nutrition may also be more vulnerable. Causes often involve repetitive stress from activities like running, jumping, or standing for long periods. Wearing shoes that do not provide proper support can increase pressure on certain areas of the foot. These combined factors contribute to the development of stress fractures and highlight the importance of proper training and equipment.

Early intervention plays a key role in recovery and preventing further damage. Resting the affected foot, reducing activity, and using supportive footwear can help promote healing. Paying attention to early warning signs allows individuals to take action before the condition worsens. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Achilles tendon injuries are common among runners and active individuals who place repeated stress on the lower leg. The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, allowing for walking, running, and jumping. Injury occurs when this tendon becomes irritated, inflamed, or partially torn due to overuse or excessive strain. Many runners notice pain in the Achilles tendon during or after activity, which is often an early sign of tendon stress that should not be ignored.

Symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries include pain and stiffness along the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after exercise. Swelling, tenderness, and a limited range of motion may also develop. Some individuals experience a burning or aching sensation that worsens with continued activity. Risk factors include intense training schedules, inadequate warm-up routines, and poor flexibility in the calf muscles. Runners who suddenly increase distance or speed may also place excessive strain on the tendon, increasing the likelihood of injury.

Pain in the Achilles tendon while running is often caused by repetitive impact and insufficient recovery time. When the tendon does not have enough time to repair between training sessions, small micro-injuries can accumulate and lead to inflammation. Unsuitable running shoes can also contribute by failing to provide proper cushioning and support, which increases stress on the tendon. Running on hard or uneven surfaces may further aggravate the condition and disrupt normal foot mechanics.

Preventing Achilles tendon injuries requires a balanced approach to training and proper footwear selection. Gradually increasing activity levels, allowing adequate recovery between sessions, and wearing supportive running shoes can reduce strain on the tendon. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also improve flexibility and resilience. Early attention to symptoms can help prevent more serious injury and support long-term performance. If you have had an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can cause enough pain to make walking and standing difficult. Breaks can happen after a hard stub, fall, or heavy object lands on the foot. Some fractures develop from repeated stress on the bone instead of one sudden injury. Pain and difficulty walking are key symptoms. A traumatic break can also cause throbbing, swelling, and bruising. Some patients hear a pop or crack when the injury occurs. However, being able to walk does not mean the toe is not broken.

Toe fractures range from small stress fractures to more serious breaks. A stress fracture is a tiny crack caused by repeated pressure on the bone. It can cause soreness after walking or running and tenderness when the area is touched. A displaced fracture occurs when the broken bone moves out of its normal position. The toe can look crooked, and severe injuries can break the skin. Broken toes and sprained toes can feel similar, so an accurate diagnosis matters. Most broken toes take about six to eight weeks to heal, although recovery varies by injury.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine whether symptoms point to a fracture. The evaluation can assess swelling, tenderness, and toe alignment. An X-ray can help confirm the break and show whether the bone has moved. Treatment depends on which toe is injured and how severe the fracture is. Options can include buddy taping, a rigid-sole shoe, or a walking boot. More serious fractures can require the bone to be repositioned or surgery to restore alignment. Proper treatment can lower the risk of lasting pain, reduced movement, or problems while walking. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. 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.

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