Pregnancy can cause several changes in the feet and ankles as the body adapts to support a growing baby. As weight increases, more pressure is placed on the feet, which may lead to pain, fatigue, and difficulty walking for long periods. Hormones released during pregnancy also loosen ligaments, the strong bands of tissue that connect bones. This loosening can cause the arches of the feet to flatten, making the feet appear longer or wider. Some women notice swelling in the feet and ankles because pregnancy can slow blood flow from the lower limbs back to the heart. Changes in posture may also occur as the body shifts its balance forward, placing added stress on the feet and ankles. These changes often become more noticeable in the later stages of pregnancy. A podiatrist can evaluate any structural changes, identify the cause of discomfort, and provide treatment to support foot health during pregnancy. If you have foot or ankle pain during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Cracked heels are splits or fissures in the skin along the edge of the heel that develop when dry, thickened skin loses elasticity and splits under pressure. This condition often begins with roughness and callus formation and can progress to painful cracks that may bleed. Common causes include prolonged standing, open-back footwear, obesity, dry climates, and poor skin hydration. Risk factors also include diabetes, eczema, and other conditions that affect circulation or skin health. Symptoms may involve itching, flaking, discomfort while walking, and visible deep fissures. A podiatrist can safely remove thickened skin, recommend medical grade moisturizers, and address underlying causes. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Bunions, also called hallux valgus, develop when the big toe drifts toward the second toe and the joint at its base sticks out. The primary risk factor for bunions is inherited foot structure, particularly a misaligned metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint. People with flat feet, excessive pronation, or loose-joint mobility place uneven pressure across the forefoot, increasing the likelihood of progression. Arthritis, prior foot injuries, and certain neuromuscular conditions can also weaken joint stability and contribute to deformity. Although tight or high-heeled shoes do not directly cause bunions, they commonly aggravate symptoms and speed irritation in people already predisposed.  A podiatrist evaluates alignment, orders imaging, and provides medical treatment options to reduce pain, limit deformity progression, and improve walking function. If you have foot problems associated with bunions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and ongoing treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Steven Black, 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 Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Lisfranc injury involves the midfoot joints and ligaments that connect the forefoot to the arch, an area responsible for stability during standing and walking. Injuries range from mild to severe and may include ligament sprains, fractures of the midfoot bones, or joint dislocations. A sprain develops when supporting ligaments stretch or tear, while fractures and dislocations disturb normal bone alignment. This joint complex provides stability rather than movement, making proper healing important. Causes include low-energy twisting injuries such as slips or falls, as well as high-impact trauma. Sports that require pushing off or contact place added stress on the midfoot. More serious injuries are often linked to car accidents, falls from height, or crush injuries, and can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, or foot deformity. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc injury in your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor 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 office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.