A toe infection is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the toe, often resulting in pain, swelling, and redness. Common causes of toe infections are fungal and bacterial infections. Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread to the toenails, leading to discoloration and brittleness. Bacterial infections can arise from cuts, blisters, or ingrown toenails, leading to increased pain and pus formation. Diagnosing a toe infection typically involves a physical examination by a podiatrist, who may take a sample of any discharge for laboratory testing. Imaging studies might be used to assess the extent of the infection. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and feel you may have a toe infection, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Steven Black, DPM of California . 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 feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pes planus, commonly known as flat feet, is caused by the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. This results in the entire sole making contact with the ground, leading to a flat appearance. Various factors contribute to the development of pes planus. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, as some individuals inherit a tendency for weak arches. Additionally, obesity places excess strain on the feet, weakening the arch over time. Other causes include injuries or conditions that damage the tendons supporting the arch, such as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Chronic conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to the loss of the arch. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you comfort options and help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . 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 office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that typically develop on the bottom of the foot and can result from poor circulation or prolonged pressure. They are often linked to conditions like peripheral neuropathy, arthritis, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Peripheral neuropathy reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries, while poor circulation from conditions like Raynaud's delays healing. Arthritis can increase the risk of pressure ulcers by altering foot mechanics. If untreated, foot ulcers can lead to severe infections, including gangrene, possibly resulting in amputation. Symptoms include swelling, redness, drainage, and pain surrounding the wound. Diagnosis involves physical examination and tests to assess circulation and nerve function. Treatment includes wound care, offloading pressure, managing underlying conditions, and sometimes surgery. Healing time varies, from weeks to months, depending on the ulcer's severity and the patient's overall health. If you have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

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 Steven Black, DPM from California . 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 office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls among seniors are a significant concern, often resulting from a combination of factors. Common causes include muscle weakness, poor balance, vision problems, and environmental hazards like clutter or uneven floors. Medication side effects and medical conditions such as arthritis can also contribute to fall risk. To prevent falls, it is important to implement several practical strategies. Ensure the home environment is safe by removing trip hazards, installing grab bars, and improving lighting. Encourage regular exercise to enhance strength and balance like walking or specialized fall prevention classes. Regular eye exams and reviewing medications can also help address underlying issues. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various conditions.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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