Bunions often develop gradually, starting as a small bump at the base of the big toe and slowly changing the shape of the foot. The bunion looks like a bony prominence forming as the toe pushes inward, and it may appear red or swollen. It can feel tender, stiff, or painful, especially when wearing tight shoes or walking long distances. Common causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, and footwear that crowds the toes. A podiatrist begins with a careful exam and imaging when needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess joint alignment. Treatment may involve custom orthotics to improve support, padding, or shoe modifications to reduce pressure, and targeted exercises to maintain flexibility. In more advanced cases, surgical options may be discussed. Early care can slow progression and improve comfort. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A non-diabetes-related foot ulcer is an open sore on the foot that develops from factors other than diabetes. These ulcers often form due to poor circulation, pressure, trauma, or underlying skin conditions. Common causes include arterial disease, venous insufficiency, friction from footwear, and repetitive stress. Types of non diabetes related ulcers may include arterial ulcers, venous ulcers, and pressure ulcers, each affecting the foot in different ways. Symptoms can include slow healing wounds, drainage, redness, pain, or skin breakdown. A podiatrist can identify the type and cause of the ulcer, provide proper wound care, improve pressure distribution, and help prevent infection or further tissue damage. If you notice a sore on your foot that does not heal or worsens over time, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and expert care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, occurs when the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or inflamed. The heel may look normal or slightly swollen, but the pain is often most noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. It commonly feels sharp, stabbing, or aching at the heel, then may turn into a dull soreness as activity continues. Causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet or high arches, and unsupportive footwear. A podiatrist can help from the start by performing a thorough examination, reviewing activity history, and confirming the diagnosis with imaging when needed. Treatment often begins with pain and inflammation management, stretching guidance, footwear changes, or orthotics. Care may then progress into targeted exercises or night splints to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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.

Choosing the right running shoes can make a big difference in comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Different types of running shoes are designed for different activities. Road running shoes are best for pavement and treadmills and offer lightweight support and smooth cushioning. Trail running shoes provide extra grip and protection for uneven and rocky surfaces. Cross training shoes are more versatile and work well for gym workouts and mixed activities, including running. Shoe cushioning is also important, as it helps absorb impact and reduce stress on the feet and joints. The right amount of cushioning depends on your foot structure, running style, and comfort needs. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, foot shape, and activity level to recommend the best shoe type or custom orthotics, if needed. If your running shoes leave you sore or uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to select shoes for your running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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.