A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often caused by genetics, arthritis, or wearing tight shoes. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes due to the toe’s misalignment. When conservative treatments like orthotics, padding, or shoe modifications fail to relieve pain, bunion removal surgery may be recommended. This procedure realigns the toe, removes the bony bump, and corrects deformities. While bunion removal can greatly improve comfort and foot function, it carries risks such as infection, nerve damage, stiffness, or recurrence of the bunion. Recovery typically involves rest, limited weight-bearing, and targeted exercises. A podiatrist can diagnose bunions through a physical exam and X-rays, helping determine if surgery is necessary and guiding you through treatment options. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM of SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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 and ankle needs.

Proper foot care is vital for individuals living with diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage. These issues increase the risk of infections, ulcers, and serious complications. Daily inspection of the feet, gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and wearing protective footwear can help prevent injury. Even small cuts or blisters should be taken seriously. A podiatrist plays a key role by providing routine exams, treating wounds, managing infections, and addressing foot structure problems. Regular visits can prevent complications and support overall foot health. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to ensure your feet receive the attention they need for long-term safety and wellness.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often between the toes. There are three main types of athlete's foot infections. Interdigital occurs between the toes, moccasin forms on the soles and sides of the feet, and vesicular includes blister-like lesions. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or communal shower areas. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and cracking of the skin. In some cases, blisters may form, and the skin can become thick and flaky. The infection is contagious and can spread to other areas of the body or to other people. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot through a physical exam and may take a skin sample to confirm the presence of fungus. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams, powders, or oral medication, along with advice on proper foot hygiene and footwear. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention strategies.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition can be present from childhood or develop over time due to aging, injury, obesity, or conditions like arthritis. People with flat feet may experience foot pain, especially in the arch or heel, along with swelling, fatigue, or an uneven gait. Some may also feel pain in the knees, hips, or lower back due to improper alignment caused by poor foot structure. A podiatrist can diagnose flat feet through a physical exam, gait analysis, and imaging studies if needed. Treatment includes custom orthotics to support the arch, targeted exercise, supportive footwear, or activity modifications. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to correct the structural issues. If you have issues related to your flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage your foot health. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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 and ankle needs.