Bunions often form slowly, creating a bony bump at the base of the big toe that can become painful and inflamed. While surgery is one option, many people find relief through non-operative care. Changes in footwear can make a big difference. Shoes with a wide toe box and soft materials reduce pressure on the joint. Custom orthotics may help improve alignment and slow the progression of the deformity. Padding and taping can also reduce discomfort during daily activities. In some cases, targeted exercises can improve joint flexibility and strengthen surrounding muscles. Anti inflammatory medication may offer temporary relief when swelling flares up. If your bunions are starting to affect your comfort or limit your choices in footwear, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for additional relief options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. 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?

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

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop due to repeated pressure or friction, often as a result of mechanical hyperkeratosis. This condition occurs when the skin responds to stress by producing excess keratin, leading to hardened layers. Footwear that does not provide adequate support or fit can increase pressure on certain parts of the foot, encouraging corn formation. Abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation or structural deformities, can also create uneven pressure points during movement. Individuals who engage in high levels of physical activity may experience repetitive stress on their feet, further contributing to the development of corns. Corns can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Hammertoes cause one or more toes to bend unnaturally at the middle joint, leading to pain, pressure, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Wearing tight or narrow footwear can make the problem worse by rubbing against the raised joints and crowding the toes. The right shoes can help relieve discomfort and slow the progression of the condition. Look for styles with a wide toe box, soft uppers, and plenty of depth to reduce friction and allow room for the toes to lie flat. Avoid high heels or pointed toes, which place extra strain on the front of the foot. In some cases, custom orthotics or padding can add support and prevent rubbing. Wearing comfortable, supportive footwear makes a big difference for those living with hammertoes. If shoes continue to cause pain or your toes become more rigid, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for treatment and further guidance on appropriate footwear.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor 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 office located in Encino, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing the correct shoe size is essential for maintaining foot health and preventing a range of painful conditions. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to serious problems over time. Wearing ill-fitting footwear may contribute to peripheral neuropathy by adding pressure to nerves, especially in individuals with existing health concerns. Corns can form as the skin thickens to protect against friction, while hammertoe may develop when the toes are forced into unnatural positions. Ingrown toenails are another common result, often caused by shoes that squeeze the toes together. Each of these issues can interfere with walking, cause discomfort, and increase the risk of infection. Selecting properly fitted shoes supports comfort, alignment, and long-term foot function. Regular sizing checks are also important as feet can change over time. If you have foot pain from wearing incorrectly sized shoes, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and provide further guidance on how to buy shoes that fit properly.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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