A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the joint where your big toe meets your foot. It often develops slowly as the toe shifts inward and the joint pushes outward. Wearing tight shoes, foot shape, or genetics can all play a role. Over time, the area may swell, feel sore, or become red and irritated. Walking can become uncomfortable, especially in narrow or stiff shoes. Pads, wider footwear, and custom orthotics may ease pressure and help reduce pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be considered to realign the toe and remove the bump. Bunions do not go away on their own, and waiting too long can make treatment more difficult. If you notice a bump forming or feel pain near your big toe, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. 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?

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 office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The foot contains many small muscles, called intrinsic foot muscles, that help support the arch, control movement, and keep the foot stable during walking or running. Newer studies suggest that training these muscles can improve foot strength and function, especially in people with flat feet, foot pain, or balance issues. Simple exercises like toe curls, towel scrunches, or trying to spread the toes apart can help activate and strengthen these muscles. Over time, this kind of training may reduce strain on larger muscles and improve how the foot absorbs impact. It may also help with posture and reduce the risk of injury during activity. Although research is still growing, early findings are encouraging. If you experience foot fatigue, arch problems, or feel unsteady on your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, showers, and sweaty shoes. The condition is extremely contagious and can be spread by walking barefoot in shared spaces or through contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include itching, burning, and stinging sensations, along with red, scaly, or cracked skin. In some cases, blisters or peeling may occur. The discomfort can be constant and worsen with wearing tight footwear or physical activity, making everyday movement painful and irritating. Although antifungal creams can help in mild cases, recurring or stubborn infections often require professional treatment. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the infection and prescribe stronger topical or oral antifungal medication. They can also provide guidance on hygiene and preventive care to stop the infection from coming back. If you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

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 Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Football places intense stress on the feet and ankles, making injuries in these areas quite common. Sprains, turf toe, fractures, and Achilles tendon issues often happen during quick movements, tackles, or sudden changes in direction. For many athletes, non-surgical treatment is enough. This may include rest, bracing, targeted exercises, and a gradual return to play. Wearing proper footwear and custom orthotics can also help support healing and prevent reinjury. However, when injuries are severe, like torn ligaments or broken bones that do not heal correctly, surgery might be necessary to restore function and stability. Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can make all the difference in how well and how quickly an athlete recovers. If foot or ankle pain continues after a game or practice, or if there is swelling, bruising, or trouble bearing weight, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Wearing high heels for extended periods of time can lead to foot swelling due to the unnatural position they force on the feet. High heels shift body weight forward onto the balls of the feet, placing excessive pressure on the forefoot and toes. This uneven distribution of weight can restrict blood flow and cause fluid to accumulate in the lower extremities. The lack of proper arch support and narrow toe boxes in many high heels can also compress nerves and blood vessels, further contributing to swelling and discomfort. Over time, this pressure can lead to inflammation, pain, and even more serious foot conditions. Choosing footwear with better support, cushioning, and a lower heel can help reduce swelling and protect long-term foot health while still allowing for stylish options. If you have foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate heel selections.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Sesamoiditis is a condition that involves inflammation of the small sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help absorb pressure and assist in movement, but excessive strain can lead to irritation and pain. Common causes of sesamoiditis include repetitive stress from activities like running, dancing, and jumping, as well as wearing high heels or improper footwear. Individuals with high arches or an abnormal foot structure may also be more prone to developing this condition. Symptoms often include pain beneath the big toe, swelling, and difficulty bending or moving the toe. The discomfort may worsen with activity and improve with rest. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat sesamoiditis.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A condition known as trigger toe affects the movement of the big toe, often causing pain and difficulty in extending it. Trigger toe is most common among dancers, particularly when they engage in repetitive motion. Trigger toe occurs when the flexor hallucis longus, or FHL, tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, and is unable to glide smoothly within its sheath. This tendon runs along the inside of the ankle, passes behind the bony bump on the inner ankle, and continues along the sole of the foot to attach at the base of the big toe. It helps point the big toe and is used in movements like rising onto the toe. Symptoms of trigger toe include pain, stiffness, or a catching feeling in the toe. A podiatrist can conduct a physical exam and order imaging tests to diagnose the problem. Recovery may take four to six weeks, involving targeted stretches, supportive devices, and limited activity. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed to release the affected tendon. If you are experiencing difficulty extending your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Heel pain can be incredibly debilitating, impacting daily activities and mobility. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs. Symptoms often include sharp or dull pain in the heel or the underside of the foot, particularly after periods of rest. Effective treatment options involve exercises to reduce discomfort and inflammation. Wearing supportive footwear with proper cushioning can also help provide relief. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist is essential for a tailored treatment plan. They can recommend specific exercises or, in more severe cases, corticosteroid injections. If heel pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Their expertise ensures you receive targeted care and a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your discomfort.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.