Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are the most common foot and ankle sports injury, with millions of incidents in the United States each year. Because your ankles have to support almost all of your weight while providing the flexibility and power for motion, they are especially vulnerable to damage. Whether your sprain is relatively minor or painfully severe, […]
Bunions and Hammertoes

Bunions and hammertoes are two of the most common progressive foot deformities. Although they affect different parts of the foot in different ways, the conditions are closely related. They share many of the same causes and treatment options, and worsen in similar ways. Although you can develop just one of the other, people with bunions […]
Foot and Ankle Fractures

There are 206 bones in the adult human skeleton, and 52 of them—more than a quarter of the total—are located in the feet and ankles alone. Feet are incredibly complex, and many of these small bones are responsible for helping bear our weight and propel us forward as we walk, run, and jump. When bones […]
Limb Salvage

Diabetes is a major factor in more than half of all non-traumatic lower limb amputations performed in America today. Because diabetes damages both nerve and circulatory function, your ability to recognize and heal from injury is significantly impaired. This can cause a chain reaction, where minor cuts and scrapes can spiral out of control. They […]
Orthotics and Arch Supports

Many painful foot conditions can be traced back to a fundamental misalignment in the way your feet are structured, or the way your joints move when you walk. Arch supports, removable shoe insoles, and custom orthotics are all tools that a podiatrist may use to provide the additional cushioning, support, or biomechanical correction your feet […]
Running Injuries

Greater Portland has a strong and enthusiastic community of runners. Considering the Mediterranean climate, gorgeous natural beauty, and dozens of miles of scenic trails, that’s no surprise! Running is a great way to stay fit, recharge your mind, and explore both urban and natural environments. Unfortunately, it can also lead to pain and injury—especially if […]
Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot can be a significant source of discomfort, frustration, and embarrassment. This common fungal infection leaves an itchy, scaly red rash that usually starts between the toes and often spreads to the tops or bottoms of the feet. Itchiness is often worst right after taking off your socks and shoes. Severe cases of athlete’s […]
Corns and Calluses

What Are Corns and Calluses? Corns and calluses are unsightly—and occasionally tender or painful—patches of thickened, hardened, waxy skin. Although they can be thought of as differing versions of the same basic problem, circumstances make them a little different: What Causes Corns and Calluses? Corns and calluses both form in response to repetitive pressure and […]
Plantar Warts

Warts are tiny, fleshy, grainy growths that can appear anywhere on the skin—but frequently on hands and feet. Caused by a viral infection, they can spread to multiple places on your skin. Although warts themselves are usually not painful, they can cause discomfort if positioned in a load-bearing area, such as the heels, balls of […]
Fungal Toenails

Nail fungus is a common infection that can lead to deep distress and embarrassment. Once fungus gets under your toenails, it can cause may unsightly symptoms, and is nearly impossible to eradicate on your own. However, you don’t have to live with the embarrassment. Northwest Extremity Specialists can help you restore a healthy shine to […]