A broken toe can result from a direct injury, such as dropping something on the foot or stubbing it against a hard surface. While symptoms may include bruising, swelling, and difficulty walking, not all fractures are immediately obvious. A careful exam and imaging, such as an X-ray, are often needed to determine the extent and location of the break. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve buddy taping the injured toe to a neighboring one, using a stiff-soled shoe, or temporarily limiting activity. In more complex cases, especially if the fracture is displaced or involves a joint, further intervention may be required. Healing can take several weeks, and early care helps prevent long-term stiffness or deformity. If your toe is painful, swollen, or looks misshapen after an injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Tinea infections, commonly known as athlete’s foot, are fungal infections that affect the skin on the feet, especially between the toes or along the soles. They often cause itching, redness, scaling, and in some cases, cracking or blistering. Diagnosis is usually made through visual examination, though a skin scraping may be taken to confirm the presence of fungus under a microscope. Management typically begins with antifungal creams or sprays, which are applied directly to the affected area. More persistent or widespread infections may require oral antifungal medication. Keeping feet clean and dry is essential, as fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. Wearing breathable footwear and changing socks regularly can help prevent recurrence. Early treatment is important to avoid spreading the infection to other areas or people. If you have a persistent rash or itch on your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

People with diabetes are at higher risk for foot infections due to poor circulation and reduced feeling in the feet. Small cuts, blisters, or sores can go unnoticed and quickly turn into serious infections if not treated. Signs of a diabetic foot infection include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or drainage from a wound. Sometimes, there may be little pain even with a severe infection. A podiatrist will examine the foot carefully and may order tests such as X-rays or lab work to check for bone involvement or deeper tissue damage. Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and may include antibiotics, wound care, and sometimes surgical cleaning. Managing blood sugar levels and inspecting feet daily are key to preventing problems. Because diabetic foot infections can become dangerous quickly, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist at the first sign of a foot wound or infection.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, as the tip of the toe angles toward the second toe. Over time, bunions can become more noticeable, and the skin over the bump may appear red and inflamed. The area can be painful, especially when pressure is applied, making it difficult to wear certain shoes or walk comfortably. Bunions are common in individuals who wear tight or ill-fitting shoes, particularly women who wear high heels. However, they can also be caused by genetic factors, abnormal foot structure, or conditions like arthritis. The symptoms include pain, swelling, and the appearance of a hard bump at the joint of the big toe. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition and offering treatments such as custom orthotics, padding, or even surgery in severe cases. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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