Bunion Blues

Bunions can cause a lot of pain, not to mention they do not give feet the most aesthetically-pleasing appearance. At Orange CA Podiatry, here in Orange, CA, we treat patients who have bunions and developing bunions.

A bunion is an abnormal bone formation that is usually located on the side of the foot, by the big toe’s first joint. Occasionally, bunions can form on the other side of the foot, by the first joint of the little toe. These types of bunions are called tailor’s bunions. The bunion itself is a bump that deforms the joint. They are formed when the joint is frequently pushed into the wrong direction, like when your big toe is pushed inward. A bunion is characterized by the sore bump on the outside of the foot. When inflamed and irritated, the area may turn red. Swelling, stiffness of the joint, and a burning sensation are symptoms that may be experienced.  

This is commonly caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes. High heels and shoes that do not have enough room for all the toes are often the culprits. However, along with inappropriate shoes, other factors in the formation of bunions genetics, arthritis, and injuries.

To slow down the formation of a bunion, changing your shoes is the first thing to do. Wear shoes that have no heel, or a small heel, good support, and enough room for the toes. Custom foot orthotics may be a good idea. Padding and splinting inside of your shoe can help move the joint back into its correct placement. An anti-inflammatory and icing will help with pain and inflammation. Your doctor may also suggest a cortisone shot. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

If you suspect you are forming a bunion, be sure to schedule an appointment with us for treatment. To schedule at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call our office at (714) 628-1995. More information can be found on our website, www.orangecapodiatry.com. 

Neuroma Facts

A neuroma is a painful condition, also referred to as a “pinched nerve” or a nerve tumor that travels between the bases of the third and fourth toes. When the tissue around these toes thickens, it brings on a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. A neuroma is typically caused by repeated mild injury to the space between these two toes, which can occur in runners or those who wear unfitted footwear.  If you are experiencing foot pain of any kind, please visit our staff at Orange CA Podiatry immediately.

The primary symptom associated with a neuroma is pain between the toes while walking. Patients who suffer from this condition may describe the pain as similar to having a pebble in his or her shoe and may often find relief by stopping their walk, taking off their shoe, and rubbing the affected area. Podiatric medical care should be sought at the first sign of pain or discomfort. Treatment options vary with the severity of each neuroma, and identifying the neuroma early in its development is important to avoid surgery.

If any of these symptoms sound all too familiar, please give us a call. To learn about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at the office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.

Give Yourself a Foot Exam

At Orange CA Podiatry, it is the job of our staff members to ensure that your foot health is in its most optimal state. Most of us know that foot exams can be lifesaving for patients with diabetes, but realistically they are important when it comes to diagnosing any serious foot condition. Fortunately, it’s easy to keep your feet healthy. Here are just a few things to look for when self-examining yours.

• Balance – a good test for balance involves standing on one foot, with your arms out to the side and your eyes close. If you are less than 30 years old, you should be able to balance for 15 seconds, 30 to 40 years old for 12 seconds, 40 to 50 years old for 10 seconds and over 50 years old for seven seconds. This can be improved with exercises.


• Circulation. Look at the color of your toes. Do they look like a normal nail color or are they leaning towards red, white, purple, or blue? Press down on the nail of your big toe until the color blanches. Now let go and allow the blood flow to return to your toe. The return of normal color should take 2 to 5 seconds in a person with average circulation.


• Flexibility. How flexible are your toes? Try to pick up a marble or a small dish towel with your toes. To test your ankle flexibility, hang your heel off of a stair. Now let the heel go below the level of the stair. If this causes pain, stop the test. If your heel goes below the level of the stair without causing strain in your calf, that is a good sign.


• Check your skin for calluses, blisters, or areas of irritation.

If you notice any abnormalities on your feet, please give us a call. To learn about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at the office, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1992.