A Closer Look at the Cause of Bunions and Gaining Relief

Bunions are one of the many issues that we wish no one had to face. They are unattractive, painful and gruesome to live with. While the most popular option is to undergo bunion surgery to relieve the pain, there are other effective bunion treatment options to reduce swelling and pain. No one wants to voluntarily walk into an operating room for any little condition, which is why we develop the best treatment plan to deal with every unique case before considering bunion surgery.

What is a Bunion?

For those who have yet to hear about the foot condition affecting more than 50 percent of American women, bunions are abnormal bony protrusions that appear on the base of the big toe joint. Bunions can be very painful and develop for a number of different reasons. This bump represents a bony prominence that develops along the first metatarsophalangeal joint on the inside of the foot and over time the bump grows larger to the point where it changes the joint structure. The longer that the bunion goes untreated is the more that the big toe turns inward toward the middle of the foot. This pain can be excruciating trying to wear certain shoes and may eventually be too painful to walk.

What Causes Bunions?

In the past, it was assumed by experts that bunions developed from improper footwear such as high heels, but podiatrists confirmed that the use of ill-fitting shoes are not the ultimate cause of bunions. In fact, recent studies show that bunions are due to the following:

• Inherited foot type
• Severe foot trauma
• Progressive childhood deformities
• Nerve conditions and arthritic diseases

Though it is a fact that ill-fitting shoes do not cause bunions in everyone, but the early presence of the condition can be exacerbated from persistent pressure that pushes foot bones in a narrow and unnatural shape.

When is the Best Time to Consider Bunion Surgery?

There have been plenty of misconceptions about patients acquiring treatment with bunion surgery. Of course bunion surgery is an option, but according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, it is only recommended if there is severe pain, discomfort, and unnatural deformity that is not responsive to conservative treatment. At our office we provide the best techniques to help patients recover swiftly from severe pain and hopefully decrease big toe inflammation.

If you are looking for more information about whether bunion surgery is in your near future we suggest you schedule an appointment with an experienced bunion surgeon to help determine if the first metatarsal bone needs to be realigned  its natural position. Contact our foot and ankle specialist and allow us to help you eliminate bunion pain. Call us and schedule a consultation at (562) 420-9800.

The Best Way to Handle Stubborn Summer Toenail Fungus

As things heat up all across Southern California we are delighted to see the days stretch well into the night. It gives us a chance to better serve our Long Beach clients and still get to enjoy the warm evenings. Be that as it may, there are still a number of foot and ankle injuries to attend to. One of the most common foot issues we see happen this time of year is toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is characterized by inflammation, pain and swelling in a toe or toes. In appearance the nails and skin of the affected toe turn yellow, thicken and start to crumble on contact. Largely due to the abnormal pH levels of the skin, we see this happen primarily because of the excessive exposure to moisture from sweat, and weak circulation. With intense heat waves we go through this time of year, nail fungus is more likely to thrive as we take the risk of walking around barefoot around pools and public places.

How Does Fungus Affect Nails?

One of the common things that people are unaware of is that moist environments are a perfect breeding ground for fungus and is easily picked up if you are not wearing proper footwear. If fungus gets into a nail bed, the fungus eats and digests keratin, fibrous proteins, and causes discoloration and thickening the longer it is left untreated.

How Can I Prevent Toenail Fungus?

Patients always wonder what they could have done to avoid this grim situation; well fortunately we have the answer. First of all, it requires cleanliness and maintenance. Washing your feet each day and drying thoroughly is the best protection from any foot bacteria. When the toenails are trimmed straight, undamaged and free of cracks they form the best barrier against infection.

Just as stated earlier, moisture plays a role in spreading toenail fungus, which is why it is easy to pick up fungus in public pools, showers, nail salons and saunas. By wearing clean flip flops and shower shoes in these places is the best option anyone can count on to avoid exposure. During the day it is also recommended to air out your feet occasionally to avoid excessive moisture in socks and shoes.

One other thing why patients end up with toenail fungus is due to toenail injuries. Damaged nails are specifically prone to bacteria and infection, so if fungus gets under damaged nails or exposed areas, then potential spreading of the infection can be the result. Although toenail injuries are not completely preventable patients can still take steps to treat their feet with careful inspection, careful maintenance and increasing circulation.

Realizing the risk factors of nail fungus can help anyone reduce their chances of toenail fungus infection. According to the Global nail Fungus Organization, common risk factors of nail fungus infection include:

• Reduced blood circulation

• Wearing socks and shoes that prevent circulation

• Psoriasis around the nails

• Athlete’s foot and other fungal infections

• Diabetes and poor circulation issues

• Excessive perspiration

Toenail Fungus Treatment

It is rather difficult to completely prevent and treat toenail fungus this time of year, so it is in your favor consider an experienced podiatrist to help your cause. For top-rated nail restoration Long Beach patients choose most, they turn to Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center at the first notice of nail fungus. We encourage you to contact us if you have any questions about your foot and ankle problems at (562) 420-9800.

Hiker Pain: The Best Solutions for Treating and Preventing Ankle Sprains

The warm and sunny weather is spreading all throughout the southland and what a better time to go back to nature than with a glorious hike at El Dorado Park or Smugglers Cove. We are excited too! But before you put on your backpack and lace up your hiking boots, make sure you are ready to treat and avoid foot and ankle sprains. Today we will help you learn about the possible injuries you can try and prevent while you enjoy the best trails of the summer.

Foot and ankle sprains can be painful and stiffen your lower limbs, making it difficult to move or walk. A sprain is an excessive stretch or tear of a ligament, connecting tissue of the bones. Ligaments stabilize and support all of the body’s joints. Most of the time sprains occur when you are shifting movement on a planted foot when the foot suddenly rolls inward or outward.

In a mild sprain, a ligament in the ankle may feel stretched, and only the joint remains stable. A moderate sprain is a partial tear of a ligament that causes slight instability in the joint. The last degree is a severe sprain where a ligament tears completely or separates from the bone. The higher degree of the sprain, is the more likely your joint functions will be interfered with and possibly fail. Pain intensity varies from person to person, but all sprains commonly experience pain, swelling, bruising and inflammation.

Treating Ankle Sprains

There are many instances where a person suffers a significant fall or roll of the ankle, but there are a few signs that indicate an ankle sprain. An audible pop, followed by pain, tenderness and rapid swelling are the first signs of a sprain. In all mild sprains, conservative measures of rest, ice, compression and elevation should be applied until the pain diminishes.

Nevertheless, severe sprains require you to immobilize the ankle and you should advise a foot and ankle doctor to perform a proper diagnosis. As per the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, if you are unable to bear weight after a sprain occurs, as well as significant swelling and deformity, then seek medical treatment. The more severe the pain may be the indicator for special treatment, surgery and rehabilitation.

Preventing Ankle Sprains

Not everyone is immune to sprains, but there are many habits and tips every hiker needs to follow:

• Stretch the body every day
• Hike only during sunlight hours to avoid tripping
• Be sure to only step on sturdy ground before placing body weight down
• Avoid stepping on debris, tree roots or uneven ground
• Wear shoes that fit properly, especially high-top shoes that reach above the ankle

Remember to adopt these steps to assist in keeping your ankles strong while hiking. If you experience a foot and ankle sprain, then remember to rest for a short while and gingerly put your weight on the affected foot until you can rest and stretch at home. Moderate and severe ankle sprains may require a specialist’s diagnosis in order to determine the proper treatment. Call a foot and ankle specialist immediately for any serious injuries.

Summer Tips for Healthy Feet

It’s just about time for summer, which means it’s time to think about your feet and the heat. Admittedly, the only time people think about their feet this time of the year is when they can kick off their shoes and enjoy the warm days and pleasant evenings. There’s more to enjoying this summer season than simply wiggling your toes in the sand, though there is some recommended toe wiggling mentioned below. Follow a few of the provided safety and health foot precautions and ensure that your summer plans don’t turn sour from carelessness.

Tips for Keeping Your Feet Healthy This Summer Vacation

•  Scale back walking barefoot—while strolling around your favorite summer relaxation spot, be sure to limit how much time is spent barefoot. This will minimize your potential for catching something undesirable through your sole, minimize potential sun burn, and minimize your potential for contracting athlete’s foot. Apply this rule to hotel rooms, pool areas, and public showers as well. In fact, in well-traveled, densely populated public areas, always wear something on your feet. 
•  Apply sunscreen on your feet, all over—you’d be amazed by how many people neglect protecting their feet from the sun. A sunburned foot can be a bit unbearable and disastrous, so take the time to make sure you’re protected from those UV rays. 
• Drink plenty of water—this summertime tip is good as a general rule, always, but it also holds one key benefit for your feet. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, being well-hydrated helps combat foot swelling when walking around in high temperatures. This is good advice for anyone living in Southern California who plans on walking around our many beaches and amusement parks.
• Stimulate Circulation—take a few moments every few hours to wiggle your toes, stretch out your ankle and calves.

Of course, if you suffer any serious injuries to your ankles or feet this summer, call a podiatrist immediately. Problems only become compounded the longer they’re left to sit. Also, head over to podiatrist Dr.Vikki’s website to assess your general foot health with her 75,000 Mile Test. It’s a lot of fun and will help you assess how your feet are doing these days.   

Diabetes and Your Feet—5 Daily Activities for Standing on Your Own Two Feet

If you’re diabetic, you have to maintain an extra-vigilant watch on your body to determine what it’s telling you. Two of the most frequently neglected parts of the body are something that you cannot take for granted—your feet. Unfortunately, being diabetic means that you need to keep a very close eye (one for each foot) on your podiatric well-being. It’s not uncommon for diabetics to lose feeling in their feet over time, which means that as you grow older, your feet become liabilities.  The good news, however, is that you can easily incorporate daily foot checks into your routine with a few simple activities and effectively stay one step ahead of your feet. 

1.  Check Your Feet Everyday—During middle of the day, after work, or anytime you come home after being out, check soles for cuts, scratches, blisters, etc. If you can’t see the bottoms of your feet for some reason, then ask for assistance, or use a mirror. Don’t just ignore this daily task.
2. Wear Socks and Shoes—Think of socks and shoes like you do the seatbelt in your car. Don’t head out until you know that everything is secure and where it should be. A sock that falls, rubs, or irritates can go unnoticed and end up causing you pain or a trip to the doctor.
3. When Wearing Socks and Shoes Choose Comfort—It’s a fact that fashion and function don’t always go together, but when dealing with diabetes, you need to go with what’s comfortable. Don’t wear socks that are too tight, or shoes that cause discomfort.
4. Keep Your Feet Squeaky Clean—Take the time to wash your feet every day. This means scheduling time for some foot maintenance beginning with washing. While you’re at it, however, you may as well take the time to trim your nails, carefully smooth rough patches, and whatever else you may be facing.
5. Don’t Go Around Barefoot—The National Diabetes Education Program recommends always wearing something on your feet to protect them from hot and cold surfaces as well as potentially stepping on something sharp. 

As a diabetic, you’re probably well aware of having the number of a good doctor on hand. Take the extra step and make sure you have a good podiatrist in mind as well. No matter how well you take care of your body, nothing can replace the care of a medical expert.

Common Injuries are Unavoidable

There’s a nifty hourly breakdown of how the average American spends their day provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Looking closely at the chart you’ll see that most people spend roughly thirty minutes exercising each day, which is fantastic. Some people may exercise more, while others workout less.  Others, work on their feet all day and don’t feel much like exercising when they get home, which is a normal feeling. Regardless, the common denominator for each type of person is the amount of time spent on their feet. Assuming that the average person exercises for thirty minutes, three times a week, that’s an hour and a half of exercise per week, which amounts to six hours per month, seventy-two hours per year, where your feet are put to work.

Given how often most people use their feet, whether for hours of exercise, work, or both, it is important to know how to treat an injury because let’s face it; you’re going to sustain at least a few minor injuries along the way. Fortunately, there is a simple acronym to help you remember how to treat those frustrating, sometimes painful, little pulls and strains.

Just remember RICE.

R is for “rest.” Once you have an injury, no matter how small, just stop. Don’t try to be a tough-guy and make things worse. Limping to your car and calling it a day is substantially better than needing a lift to the hospital.

I is for “ice.” This one ought to be self-explanatory. When you’re injured, grab some ice. Pull a muscle in your foot? Grab some ice. Is your ankle swollen? Grab some ice.

C is for “compression.” You may need to put some pressure on yourself depending on the nature of your injury. How much or how little can vary widely, but what’s important is that you’re paying attention to what your body is telling you.

E is for “elevation.” You may not feel like you need to lie down on the couch and raise your foot up after playing fetch with your dog, but if you pulled something, it’s wise to get off of it and get it up.

Of course, there’s no replacement for sound medical consultation to determine the best treatment for your injury. Never ignore an injury just because you feel as though the pain is tolerable. Use RICE immediately following a minor sprain, pull, or swelling. However, as soon as you’re able to visit a doctor be sure to get examined. This way you’ll be back on your feet sooner and longer.