A bunion is a bony bump that forms along the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. It develops as  the big toe begins to lean toward the smaller toes, causing the joint at its base to shift outward. Bunions often develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness around the affected joint. The big toe may also become stiff or difficult to move. Although some bunions cause little discomfort, others can make walking or wearing certain shoes painful. Changes in foot structure and family history can increase the likelihood of developing bunions.

As a bunion progresses, the changing position of the big toe can affect how pressure is distributed across the foot. This may lead to discomfort while walking and make the joint more sensitive to pressure from footwear. Some people develop hardened skin over the bunion or experience pain in nearby toes. Arthritis can also affect the big-toe joint and contribute to stiffness. Because bunions can worsen over time, persistent symptoms should be professionally evaluated. An examination can determine the severity of the deformity and identify other foot problems that may be contributing to pain or difficulty walking.

A podiatrist can evaluate a bunion by examining the foot, big-toe position, and joint movement. X-rays may be recommended to measure changes in alignment and assess the condition of the joint. Podiatric treatment depends on the severity of the bunion and how much it affects daily activities. Care may focus on reducing pressure, improving foot function, and managing discomfort. For severe bunions that continue to cause significant problems, surgery may be considered to correct the position of the toe. If bunion pain, swelling, or stiffness is making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Alice Kim, DPM of 101 Foot and Ankle. 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 Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of a toe. Each of the four smaller toes has three bones, while the big toe has two. Any of these bones can break. A fracture can happen after stubbing a toe against a hard object or dropping something heavy on the foot. Pain can begin right away and make walking uncomfortable. Swelling and bruising are also typical signs. Damage around the toenail can occur with some injuries, especially when the impact is strong enough to cut the skin beneath the nail.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine whether a fracture is likely. X-rays can usually show the location of the break and help guide treatment. An injury involving bleeding or damage beneath the nail deserves prompt attention because a cut can be hidden under the nail. The position of the toe also matters. A podiatrist can check whether the broken bone remains properly aligned, and look for damage to nearby tissues. This evaluation helps separate a fracture from other injuries that can cause similar pain and swelling.

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the broken toe. Surgery is rarely required for toe fractures. A podiatrist can stabilize certain fractures by securing the injured toe to the neighboring toe, a method called buddy-taping. A hard-soled shoe can reduce painful bending of the toe when walking. Many toe fractures heal within four to six weeks. A podiatrist can monitor healing and determine when returning to sports or other physical activities is appropriate. Persistent pain or problems with walking can signal that the toe needs further evaluation. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Foot pain is a broad condition that affects many individuals and can result from skin issues, infections, or structural problems. It may appear as a dull ache, sharp pain, or burning sensation that interferes with daily activities. Symptoms often include tenderness, swelling, and visible changes in the skin. Identifying the source of the foot pain is important for effective care and long-term relief.

Blisters develop when repeated friction causes layers of skin to separate and fill with fluid. They can become painful while walking and may lead to infection if broken. Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that thrives in warm, damp areas. It causes itching, scaling, and redness. Additionally, toe jam forms when moisture and debris accumulate between toes, leading to irritation and an unpleasant odor. Foot odor is commonly linked to bacteria that grow in sweaty environments, often worsened by wearing closed shoes for long periods.

Cracked heels are caused by dry, thickened skin that splits under pressure, leading to discomfort and possible infection. Non-healing foot ulcers are a serious concern for individuals with diabetes, as reduced blood flow and nerve sensitivity can delay healing. These ulcers may appear as open sores, and require prompt care to prevent more serious complications. Symptoms like swelling, discoloration, and drainage should be evaluated by a podiatrist.

Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, excessive sweating, and chronic health conditions. Standing for extended periods of time and lack of proper foot care can also increase vulnerability. Regular inspection and proper hygiene help reduce risk and maintain foot health. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. 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 Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain is a common sports injury that frequently affects volleyball players due to the fast-paced and jump-intensive nature of the game. This condition occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often as a result of landing awkwardly. In volleyball, players often land on the outside of the foot after a jump, which places sudden stress on the ankle joint. This motion can cause the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle to overstretch, leading to pain and instability. Understanding how ankle sprains develop can help players recognize symptoms early and seek proper care.

Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Some players may also have a limited range of motion and a feeling of instability while standing or walking. Wearing poor footwear, inadequate warm-up routines, and weak ankle muscles can also increase the likelihood of injury. Players who have had a previous sprain are at a higher risk of re-injury due to reduced ligament strength.

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades based on severity. A grade 1 sprain involves mild stretching of the ligaments with minimal swelling and discomfort. A grade 2 sprain is a moderate injury that includes partial tearing of the ligaments, resulting in noticeable swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. A grade 3 sprain is the most severe and involves a complete tear of the ligament, often causing significant pain, instability, and an inability to bear weight. 

Preventing ankle sprains in volleyball requires attention to technique, strength, and support. Wearing well-fitted shoes, performing balance exercises, and strengthening the ankle muscles can reduce injury risk. If you have sustained an ankle sprain while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, enabling you to return to this popular sport.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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