When most children begin to walk, their toes point straight ahead. In some cases, as a child begins to walk, their toes point inward. This is termed intoeing, or pigeon-toed, and in most cases goes away on its own. The causes of intoeing are a bit murky, but family history may be involved. Another cause is a twisting of the tibia bone while in the womb, but this often straightens itself out within the first year. A twisting of the femur bone in the thigh is another possible cause of intoeing in children between the ages of 2 and 4 years. This also corrects itself in time, but in severe cases may require surgery. A third cause of intoeing is a curving inward of the foot, which often takes place before birth. This too usually straightens out as the child grows older, but a brace or cast may be used to help straighten out the foot. If your child demonstrates intoeing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can take X-rays and examine the child’s feet to determine the best course of action.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

Pain can sometimes occur in people who have flat feet. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and this may extend into adulthood. Flat feet are defined as the foot having no arch or very low arches. This can cause an inability for the foot to lie flat on the ground and can affect posture. Some of the symptoms that patients may have with flat feet are swelling, pain, and stiffness, which may indicate an underlying disorder in adults. Flat feet can affect the alignment of the body and can compromise walking, standing, and running. The two categories of flat feet can include flexible and rigid. Children are more affected by flexible flat feet, and the arch cannot be seen while standing but will reappear while sitting down. The arch is non-existent in people who have rigid flat feet, regardless of any weight that is put on the foot. There are specific stretches that can be done to strengthen the foot. If you have flat feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with relief techniques.

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.

Having a vitamin deficiency may be a cause for cracked heels to develop. It can be an unsightly and uncomfortable foot condition. Mildly cracked heels affect the top layer of the skin, and it is generally a painless ailment. Fissures are defined as severely cracked heels that may bleed and become infected. Studies show that a lack of vitamin E may affect the collagen in the skin. This is linked to the drying effect that aging has on the skin and may increase the risk of developing cracked heels. It can be beneficial to add foods, such as sunflower seeds, salmon, and avocado to your diet, which are laden with vitamin E. Patients who do not get adequate amounts of vitamin B-3 in their diet may notice their skin becomes dry and scaly, which may be followed by getting cracked heels. If you have questions about how cracked heels are connected to vitamin deficiencies, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Many people who are athletic suffer from stress fractures. The foot is a common place for this type of injury to occur, and it happens from gradually increasing speed and distance too quickly while running. Additionally, it can happen to people who frequently run on uneven surfaces, and this can wreak havoc on the foot bones. The metatarsal bones can be affected. These are the long bones at the top of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. The feet absorb the impact of running, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that have adequate cushioning. Existing medical conditions may lead to developing a stress fracture, consisting of diabetes, arthritis, or osteoporosis. People who are vitamin deficient in D or calcium may start to experience symptoms of a stress fracture. These can include having dull pain in a specific area of the foot, and it may radiate to the entire foot if treatment is not promptly received. If you think you may have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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.

Sever’s disease is a swelling and irritation of the growth plate in the heels of children. The growth plate refers to a layer of cartilage near the end of a bone and this is where most bone growth occurs. It can be weaker and more prone to injury than the rest of the bone. Sever’s disease can come on during puberty when growth spurts are common. Bones, muscles, and tendons grow at different rates, and if the muscles and tendons become tight, which can easily happen from sports or prolonged standing, they can pull on the growth plate in the heel. This condition often causes pain and tenderness in one or both heels. The feet may be stiff when the child first wakes up and they may limp or walk on tiptoes to deal with the pain. This is a condition that can usually be managed without chronic issues. If your child complains of heel pain or you notice that their gait is off, it is suggested that you take them to see a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the problem and provide treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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

Diabetic patients can often be at an increased risk of developing foot conditions. For example, diabetic patients can be susceptible to what is known as foot ulcers. Ulcers are essentially open sores that do not easily heal in a timely fashion. There are many things that can potentially increase a diabetic’s susceptibility to developing ulcers. For example, if a diabetic wears shoes that do not fit correctly because they are too tight for that individual, then they might be more likely to develop ulcers. Also, obesity or being overweight is another risk factor that is linked to an increased risk of foot ulcers as a diabetic. Lastly, excessive alcohol consumption as a diabetic is strongly linked to the development of ulcers among those who suffer from diabetes. If you are living with diabetes, then it is highly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice.

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 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.

One of the most important things diabetic patients can do is to take proper care of their feet. Diabetes is a condition that is a result of elevated blood sugar levels, and this can damage the nerves in the feet. This may cause the inability to feel existing sores, bruises, and scrapes that have developed. These can become infected if prompt treatment is not received. Diabetic foot care can begin with washing the feet using warm water, and drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes. This is followed by checking the soles of the feet for any cuts, which can be done by using a mirror. If family members or caregivers are available, they may be able to help with this task. It is beneficial that the toenails be trimmed on a regular basis, and many people will have their podiatrist do this. Engaging in a gentle stretching and exercise routine can stimulate blood flow to the feet, and it is helpful to incorporate healthy eating habits into the daily regime. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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.

When an individual breaks their foot, they have fractured one or more bones in the foot area. If your foot is broken, it is suggested that you seek out immediate attention from a podiatrist for treatment. A broken foot might undergo the healing process with the help of crutches. When using crutches for this injury, it may be important to remember certain things. For instance, when walking with crutches, you can put your weight not on the armpits that make contact with the crutches, but on the hands and arms. Additionally, a trusted medical professional can help you ensure that the crutches are fitting properly and that they properly fit you and your specific body type. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist if you have a broken foot and are considering the use of crutches.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.