A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by dropping a heavy object on the foot or forcefully stubbing it. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes a clearly deformed appearance. While it may be tempting to continue normal activities, running with a broken toe is not recommended. The repeated impact places added stress on the injured bone, which can worsen pain, delay healing, and increase the risk of improper alignment. Even if discomfort seems manageable, continuing to run can prolong recovery time, which is typically about six weeks with proper care. Risk factors include sports activities and not wearing protective footwear. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, provide stabilization, and guide safe healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and guide you on an appropriate time frame to resume running.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Plantar warts are growths that develop on the bottom of the foot due to infection from the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They often appear as small, rough lesions with a grainy surface and may have tiny black dots within them, which are clotted blood vessels. Unlike other warts, they tend to grow inward because of pressure from walking or standing. Pain may increase with direct pressure, especially on weight-bearing areas, such as the heel or ball of the foot. These warts can spread through direct contact or from walking barefoot in shared spaces. A podiatrist can identify plantar warts and distinguish them from callouses or other skin conditions. Treatment includes topical medications, careful removal of thickened skin, or in-office procedures designed to eliminate the wart tissue. Addressing the condition early can reduce discomfort and limit spread. If you think you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists or rolls, causing the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that support the joint, to stretch or tear. An ankle sprain often happens while playing sports, walking or running on uneven surfaces, or sudden changes in direction. Risk factors include previous sprains, loose joints, and certain foot shapes that make the ankle less stable. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam to assess ligament damage and check for more serious injuries. Imaging and X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the severity and includes bracing, controlled movement, and structured rehabilitation to restore strength and balance. In more severe or repeated cases, advanced care or surgery may be needed to improve stability. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for immediate care.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. It most commonly affects the big toe and can cause sudden and intense pain. Symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth, and severe tenderness in the affected area. Causes may include diet high in purines, dehydration, and reduced kidney function. Risk factors include obesity, alcohol use, certain medications, and family history. Men are more likely to develop gout due to higher uric acid levels and hormonal differences. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing pain, and recommending lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe or surrounding areas, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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