Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain. It affects a strong band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. This tissue, called the plantar fascia, helps support the arch and absorbs stress when walking. When it becomes irritated, pain can develop near the heel or along the bottom of the foot. Heel pain is frequently felt where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. The discomfort is often strongest with the first steps in the morning. It can also occur after sitting for a long period. Pain may ease after moving around, but often returns later in the day. 

Several factors can increase stress on the plantar fascia. These include standing for long periods, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, and suddenly increasing physical activity. People with very high arches or very flat feet can also develop this condition. Symptoms include a burning sensation and a sharp, stabbing pain when walking. The discomfort can make daily activities more difficult to carry out and may affect balance and movement. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can cause people to change the way they walk. This can place extra strain on other parts of the foot and ankle and cause further difficulties.

A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through a physical examination and a review of symptoms. Diagnostic imaging and X-rays may be used to rule out other causes of heel pain. Treatment options include stretching exercises, custom orthotics, and night splints that gently stretch the foot while sleeping. Additional treatment may focus on reducing stress placed on the plantar fascia and improving foot function. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM  from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a common foot condition that causes a bony bump to form at the base of the big toe. As the condition develops, the big toe gradually shifts toward the smaller toes, which can change the shape of the foot and make certain shoes uncomfortable to wear. Bunions often run in families because inherited foot structure can increase the likelihood of developing them. Common symptoms include pain, swelling and tenderness around the joint. Many have difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably. Although genetics play a major role, wearing narrow, tight, or high-heeled shoes can place extra pressure on the big toe joint and may worsen symptoms over time. Other risk factors include flat feet, arthritis, and activities that place repeated stress on the front of the foot. Without treatment, a bunion may become larger and more painful. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the condition and recommend footwear modifications, padding, or surgery when necessary. If you have bunion pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM of SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor 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 Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease develops when blood flow to the legs and feet becomes reduced, often because arteries become narrowed, over time. In the feet, this may appear as pain during walking that improves with rest, coldness compared with the other foot, and slow-healing sores, in addition to skin color changes, or thinning, fragile skin. Some people notice reduced hair growth on the legs or feet, thickened nails, numbness, or weakness. As circulation worsens, pain may occur even while resting, especially at night. Because reduced blood flow can delay healing and increase the risk of serious complications, early recognition is important. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, examine skin and nail changes, and identify warning signs that need further medical attention. If you notice foot pain with walking, unexplained wounds, or changes in skin temperature or color, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot corn is a thickened area of skin that develops from repeated pressure or friction. It often appears as a small, raised bump with a hardened center that can become painful when pressed. There are different types of corns. Hard corns usually form on the tops of toes or areas with constant pressure. Soft corns develop between toes where moisture is present, giving them a softer texture. Additionally, seed corns are smaller and often found on the bottom of the foot. Corns form when the skin tries to protect itself from irritation caused by wearing tight shoes, abnormal foot structure, or repeated movement. A podiatrist can safely remove corns, identify the source of pressure, and recommend solutions to prevent recurrence. Proper care helps reduce discomfort and protect skin health. Corns can be painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions, which may include removal.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM of SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

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

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.