A bunionette, sometimes called a tailor’s bunion, is a bony bump that forms along the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. It occurs when the fifth metatarsal bone shifts outward while the toe is angled inward, causing pressure and discomfort. This deformity is often linked to genetics, foot structure, or shoes that are too tight across the toes. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and pain that worsens with activity or certain footwear. Over time, the area may become increasingly irritated, especially if the bump rubs against the inside of the shoe. Early treatment may involve changing to wider shoes, using padding, or trying orthotics to reduce pressure. If pain persists despite these efforts, surgical options may be considered to realign the bone. If you are experiencing discomfort near your smallest toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the best course of care.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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 Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a condition called hyperuricemia, where excess uric acid builds up in the blood. When uric acid crystallizes, it deposits in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain, swelling, and redness. The big toe is often affected due to its lower temperature and reduced circulation, which promote crystal formation.  Common causes of gout include genetics, poor kidney function, high-purine diets, and certain medications. Among the risk factors are obesity, age, alcohol use, and medical conditions such as hypertension. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through clinical evaluation and testing, provide pain relief, and recommend lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you promptly contact this type of doctor who can accurately diagnose gout and offer effective relief and management solutions.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Foot neuropathy is a condition involving nerve damage in the feet, often resulting in numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or sharp pain. It can affect balance and lead to injuries due to reduced sensation. Common symptoms also include sensitivity to touch and muscle weakness. Risk factors include diabetes, alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, infections, and certain medications. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as ulcers or infections. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, identify the underlying cause, and develop a treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, protective footwear, or medication. If you experience unusual sensations in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to receive specialized care and prevent further nerve damage or mobility issues.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Wearing high heels regularly can lead to a range of foot and ankle problems. The forward pitch of the foot in high heels places significant pressure on the forefoot, often leading to bunions, hammertoes, corns, and neuromas. Prolonged wearing of high heels can also contribute to plantar fasciitis, a painful condition involving the tissue on the bottom of the foot. High heels limit ankle mobility, which increases strain on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles. Over time, this can shorten and tighten the tendon, raising the risk of tendon tears and muscle cramping. The altered posture caused by high heels shifts the body's alignment and places extra stress on the ankle joints, leading to pain or instability. A podiatrist can assess the impact of wearing high heels on foot structure, recommend custom inserts, and determine whether surgery is needed for long-term problems. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Plantar heel pain refers to discomfort at the bottom of the heel, often caused by irritation or inflammation of the soft tissues that support the foot. Common causes include overuse, poor footwear, excess weight, or abnormal foot mechanics. The pain is typically sharp and felt with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Staying active within comfort limits is important, as movement helps maintain circulation and flexibility. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of the pain, provide custom orthotics, suggest stretching routines, and recommend footwear for support. If you are experiencing ongoing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can guide you through effective solutions to reduce discomfort and support daily activity.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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