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.

A stubbed toe may seem minor, but the impact can affect bones, joints, nails, and surrounding soft tissue. Common problems include bruising, swelling, nail damage, ligament strain, or a fracture of one of the small toe bones. Pain that worsens with walking, visible deformity, numbness, or persistent swelling may signal a more serious injury. A podiatrist can evaluate the toe with a physical exam and imaging to determine whether a fracture, dislocation, or nail injury is present. Treatment may include immobilization, protective footwear, or taping techniques performed in the office. Nail care or management of inflammation and pain can also be addressed. Early assessment supports safer recovery. If you have pain from stubbing a toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Steven Black, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Hammertoes develop when the muscles and tendons that normally keep the toes straight fall out of balance, causing one or more toes to bend at the middle joint. This condition often begins quietly but may progress with symptoms, such as aching pain, stiffness, and skin irritation. Common signs include redness, corns, and calluses. Hammertoes may look curled or buckled, and the affected toe can rub painfully against shoes, making walking uncomfortable and footwear difficult to tolerate. Causes include inherited foot structure, improper footwear, arthritis, or long-term pressure on the toes. A podiatrist can help by first performing a thorough examination and imaging, if needed, to confirm the diagnosis and identify contributing factors. Treatment may begin with shoe modifications, padding, or custom orthotics to relieve pressure and improve alignment, and can progress to targeted exercises, medications, or corrective procedures when necessary. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Steven Black, 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 Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones forming the ankle joint break, often after a fall, misstep, sports injury, or accident. Diagnosis begins with a careful clinical exam to assess pain, swelling, bruising, and the ability to bear weight. Imaging plays an important role. X-rays are commonly used to confirm a break and determine alignment, while advanced imaging may be recommended if the injury is complex or involves surrounding structures. Treatment depends on the type, location, and stability of the fracture. Stable breaks may be managed with immobilization using a boot or cast, along with limited weight-bearing. More severe injuries may require realignment or surgical repair to restore joint stability. Targeted exercise is an important part of recovery and helps rebuild strength, mobility, and balance. Prompt care reduces the risk of long-term stiffness, arthritis, or instability. If you have sustained an ankle injury that is causing significant pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you seek prompt evaluation by a podiatrist.

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An Achilles tendon rupture is a serious injury involving a complete tear of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is common in athletes and active individuals and can abruptly end athletic participation or even a professional career. This injury often results from overuse of the tendon, sudden increases in activity, or long-term degeneration that weakens the tendon over time. Symptoms may include a sudden sharp pain in the back of the leg, a popping sensation, swelling, bruising, weakness, and difficulty walking or pushing off the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, confirm the diagnosis, and guide appropriate treatment, whether surgical or nonsurgical, to restore strength and function. If you have sudden Achilles pain or loss of function, it is suggested that you seek podiatric care promptly for effective treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The windlass test is a simple clinical method used to examine how the plantar fascia behaves when the big toe is raised and the arch is placed under tension. During this movement, a podiatrist gently lifts the big toe while keeping the foot steady, allowing them to see whether the plantar fascia tightens normally or triggers discomfort. This test is most often associated with plantar fasciitis because people with this condition frequently feel heel or arch pain when the toe is elevated. It can also provide helpful information about flat feet, arch fatigue, or other mechanical issues that affect daily movement. The windlass test is usually performed when someone reports morning foot pain, stiffness, or tenderness along the bottom of the foot. If these symptoms persist or interfere with routine activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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 and ankle needs.

A partial tear of the long peroneal tendon is a challenging injury, especially for athletes who rely on speed, balance, and rapid direction changes. This type of damage often develops after a significant ankle sprain, when the tendon is overstretched or strained during an abrupt twist. Evaluation begins with a careful physical exam to identify tenderness, swelling, and weakness along the outer side of the ankle. Imaging plays an important role as well. X-rays help rule out fractures, while MRI offers a detailed view of the soft tissues, confirming the extent of the tendon injury. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, protecting the tendon, and restoring stability. Bracing, activity modification, and targeted rehabilitation strengthen the surrounding muscles and support healing. In some cases, advanced therapies may be recommended for optimal recovery. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist promptly if you suspect a tendon injury.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.