Items filtered by date: September 2025

Sesamoiditis is the inflammation of the small sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint that help bear weight and support movement. This condition often develops in athletes, dancers, or anyone placing repeated stress on the ball of the foot. Risk factors include high-impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and foot structure abnormalities. Pain is typically felt under the big toe, especially when walking, running, or bending the toe. Symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, and difficulty pushing off the foot. A podiatrist can provide customized treatment such as rest strategies, orthotics, and targeted exercises. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that thrives in warm and moist environments. The condition develops when dermatophyte fungi grow on the skin of the feet, especially between the toes. These fungi feed on keratin, the protein in skin, hair, and nails, and spread quickly in damp settings like locker rooms, public showers, and around swimming pools. The infection often begins with itching, redness, and peeling between the toes. If left untreated, it can spread to the soles, toenails, or even the hands. Wearing tight shoes, sweating heavily, or keeping feet damp for long periods of time increases the risk. Sharing shoes, socks, or towels with others can also pass the fungus along. Because athlete’s foot rarely clears without care, early attention makes a difference. If you notice persistent itching, burning, or scaling 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 one of our podiatrists from The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group.  Our doctors 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 offices located in Antioch, Martinez, and Concord, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot arch pain is discomfort that develops in the curved middle part of the foot and can interfere with walking and daily activities. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, foot cramps from overuse or dehydration, and tarsal tunnel syndrome which compresses nerves in the ankle. Symptoms may include aching, burning, or sharp pain that worsens with standing or activity. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, obesity, and wearing improper footwear. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the exact cause, providing custom orthotics, offering treatment options, and guiding exercises to strengthen the foot. If you have persistent foot arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors 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 offices located in Antioch, Martinez, and Concord, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Edema, the medical term for swelling, is caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues, most commonly affecting the feet, ankles, and legs. During pregnancy, edema is often the result of hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and the growing uterus, which places pressure on blood vessels, slowing circulation. While mild swelling is common, significant or sudden edema can increase risks of discomfort, reduced mobility, or, in rare cases, indicate more serious conditions like preeclampsia. A podiatrist can provide supportive care by recommending proper footwear, compression options, and safe strategies to reduce swelling and maintain comfort. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain or swelling during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips. 

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 one of our podiatrists from The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors 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 offices located in Antioch, Martinez, and Concord, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, can appear in several forms, each requiring careful treatment. The most common is distal subungual onychomycosis, which starts at the tip of the nail and spreads underneath, often treated with oral antifungal medications. White superficial onychomycosis affects the top layer of the nail, creating chalky white spots that can sometimes be managed with topical antifungal creams. Proximal subungual onychomycosis begins at the base of the nail and moves outward, and is more common in people with a weakened immune system. Treatment usually includes prescription antifungal therapy. Candida onychomycosis is caused by yeast rather than dermatophytes and can make nails thick, discolored, and painful, often requiring both oral and topical antifungals. Since toenail fungus can worsen if untreated, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to ensure an accurate diagnosis and obtain the most effective treatment for restoring healthy nails.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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