Items filtered by date: September 2024

A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to angle inward toward the second toe. This condition often results in discomfort and can lead to changes in foot structure. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the bunion, along with the formation of a hard, prominent bump. Movement of the big toe can become restricted, leading to difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Risk factors for developing bunions include genetic predisposition, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and conditions that affect foot mechanics like arthritis. If you have symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment methods.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, causing them to curl down instead of pointing forward. This abnormal position can lead to pain and discomfort not only in the toes but also throughout the lower legs. The altered foot mechanics can strain the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet and legs, potentially leading to issues like plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition affecting the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. If left untreated, hammertoe can make walking difficult and worsen plantar fasciitis symptoms. That is why It is important to take care of hammertoe early on to prevent further complications in your lower extremities. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to maintain foot health and avoid long-term damage.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

Plantar fasciitis often causes heel pain and discomfort, but specific foot stretches can provide significant relief. Stretching the Achilles tendon and calf muscles can help to reduce tension on the plantar fascia, easing pain. One effective stretch involves gently pulling the toes back towards the shin while keeping the knee straight, which targets the calf muscles. Another useful stretch is to sit with one leg extended, reaching for the toes to stretch the hamstrings and the bottom of the foot. Rolling the foot over a tennis ball or frozen water bottle can also alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer you a comprehensive treatment plan, which often includes foot stretches.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

Sesamoiditis is a condition that affects the sesamoid bones, which are small, rounded bones located beneath the big toe joint. This ailment is a frequent contributor to metatarsalgia, a type of foot pain that occurs in the ball of the foot. Symptoms of sesamoiditis typically include pain and swelling surrounding the big toe joint, especially when engaging in activities that place pressure on the forefoot, such as dancing or jogging. Those who are at higher risk include dancers, who often perform on the balls of their feet, and joggers, who may experience repeated stress in this area. Wearing proper footwear, rest, and medical evaluation from a podiatrist is essential for managing this condition and alleviating discomfort. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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 and ankle needs.