Hammertoes occur when the small toes bend abnormally, creating pressure points that lead to irritation, inflammation, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. As the deformity progresses, corns and calluses often form over the raised joints, increasing discomfort and limiting mobility. A podiatrist can relieve pain by addressing both the symptoms and the underlying mechanics of the foot. Treatment may begin with trimming or reducing thickened skin, applying protective padding, or recommending custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure on the affected toes. In some cases, splinting or taping can help position the toe more comfortably and slow the progression of the deformity. If hammertoe pain becomes persistent or if the toe becomes rigid, minimally invasive or surgical correction may be the most effective option to restore function and relieve discomfort. If you are experiencing hammertoe pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to ensure targeted care that is designed to improve comfort and support long-term foot health.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail is a condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and pain. While mild cases may seem to improve temporarily, ingrown toenails rarely heal on their own and often worsen without proper care. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, toe injuries, and inherited nail shape. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, drainage, and signs of infection around the nail border. Walking or wearing shoes can become uncomfortable as the condition progresses. A podiatrist can help by safely removing the ingrown portion of the nail, treating infection, and preventing recurrence through corrective procedures and education. If you have ongoing toe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for nail removal.  

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot and ankle problems like fractures, diabetes related changes, and gout can affect daily comfort and stability. A fracture may cause sudden swelling, bruising, and sharp pain while bearing weight, and the area may look misshapen or severely tender. Diabetes can lead to reduced sensation, dry skin, slow-healing wounds, and swelling that may feel heavy or numb. Symptoms of gout include intense redness, warmth, and throbbing pain, usually in the big toe, and the affected joint may look shiny or swollen. These conditions may feel limiting, stressful, or unpredictable, especially when movement increases discomfort. A podiatrist can begin by performing a full examination, ordering imaging or lab tests when needed, and identifying the underlying cause of symptoms. Treatment may include fracture stabilization, wound care, footwear recommendations, or long-term management strategies to prevent complications. Because early professional care protects foot health and supports safe recovery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion can lead to steady pain at the base of the big toe, especially when the bump grows larger as the toe shifts toward the second toe. When wider shoes or protective pads no longer reduce discomfort, surgery to correct the deformity may be considered. Reasons for choosing bunion surgery include pain that interferes with daily movement, difficulty walking more than short distances, or swelling around the big toe joint that does not improve with rest. Some people also struggle to bend or straighten the toe because the joint becomes too stiff. Surgery helps realign the bones of the big toe and reduce the bony prominence so the foot can function more comfortably. A podiatrist can assess the size and severity of the bunion and recommend the best plan for relief. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that affects many middle-aged women due to hormonal changes, reduced elasticity in connective tissues, increased activity levels, and footwear that does not offer adequate support. Symptoms often include sharp heel pain when taking the first steps in the morning, tenderness along the bottom of the foot, and stiffness that may worsen after long periods of standing. The condition may appear as mild swelling near the heel and feel like a persistent ache or a sudden stabbing sensation. Causes include overuse, improper shoe choices, weight gain, or biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can provide an early and accurate diagnosis through physical examination and imaging, followed by treatments that include custom orthotics, stretching plans, footwear guidance, and advanced procedures when necessary. If you are dealing with this type of heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors 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 offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates 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 such as locker rooms, communal showers, and sweaty shoes. Many people first notice itching, burning, or peeling skin that becomes more irritated after activity. As the condition progresses, the skin may crack, blister, or appear scaly and red, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. The fungus spreads easily through shared surfaces, wearing damp socks, or contaminated footwear. Keeping the feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and choosing breathable shoes can help reduce risk. Stubborn infections often require professional care to fully clear and prevent recurrence. If the itching persists, the skin becomes painful, or the infection keeps returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and effective treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. .  our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Chondrosarcoma of the talus is an extremely rare bone cancer that develops in the cartilage-producing cells of the ankle. Because the talus plays a central role in weight-bearing and motion, early symptoms may appear subtle and are often mistaken for routine ankle problems. People may notice persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness that does not improve with rest. As the condition progresses, discomfort may intensify, and walking can become more difficult. Unlike common ankle injuries, this type of tumor tends to cause symptoms that gradually worsen rather than improve. Early evaluation is important because accurate diagnosis requires imaging and expert assessment. A podiatrist can recognize when symptoms are out of the ordinary and guide you toward the appropriate specialists for further testing and treatment. If you have ongoing ankle pain or swelling that does not respond to typical care, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for timely evaluation.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation that damages the joints in the feet, leading to visible disfigurements and pain. Over time, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, weakening soft tissues and causing bones to shift out of place. This may result in toes drifting toward one side, collapsed arches, bunion formation, or claw-like deformities. These changes often make walking difficult and finding comfortable shoes challenging. Early treatment helps slow joint damage and reduce discomfort. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pressure and improve stability. In advanced cases, surgical correction may be needed to restore function and alignment. If you suffer from painful rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief options.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.