A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing the toe to lean inward. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. For mild cases, simple changes like wearing wider shoes and using padding or toe spacers can provide relief. Custom orthotics may also help by reducing pressure on the joint and slowing the bunion’s progression. When symptoms worsen or interfere with daily life, surgery may be considered to correct the alignment and relieve discomfort. Each case is different, and treatment depends on the severity of the bunion, activity level, and how much pain it causes. Waiting and watching may work for some, while others benefit from early support or surgical correction. If you have a bunion that is becoming painful or limiting your mobility, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain in children is a common complaint that can stem from several causes, often related to growth and physical activity. Sever's disease is one of the most frequent sources, involving inflammation of the growth plate in the heel due to repetitive stress or impact during sports. Plantar fasciitis can also develop when the thick tissue that supports the arch becomes irritated, causing discomfort in the heel, especially after rest. Achilles tendinitis results from overuse of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel, leading to pain and stiffness. In more serious cases, a fracture may be the cause, often from a fall or direct impact. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common complaint that can result from various conditions affecting the foot. Plantar fasciitis is a leading cause, involving inflammation of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch, leading to sharp pain in the heel. Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon connecting the calf to the heel becomes irritated, often due to overuse. Bursitis, the inflammation of fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel, can cause tenderness and discomfort. Additionally, heel spurs, bony growths on the heel bone, may develop due to repeated strain and pressure. Risk factors for heel pain include excessive walking or running, wearing improper footwear, obesity, and structural foot issues. Heel pain can cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment remedies.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.