Bunion and Hammertoe Treatments

SCMSC Provides Comprehensive Bunion and Hammertoe Treatments

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Overview

Jump directly to the bunion or hammertoe information you need.

Bunion Info

Hammertoe Info

Minimal Incision Bunionectomy

Minimal Incision Hammertoe Repairs

Bunions

A bunion represents more than just an unsightly bump on your foot – it’s a progressive deformity that affects the structure of your foot where the big toe joins the foot. At Southern California Multi-Specialty Center (SCMSC), we understand that bunions can significantly impact your daily life, from limiting your footwear choices to causing persistent pain with every step.

Illustration of a healthy foot vs a foot with bunion

Reduced blood flow and damaged nerves can result in ulcers, dry, cracked skin and other conditions in the feet of people with diabetes.

Did You Know…

Your choice of shoes plays a huge role in bunion development and progression. Think of your shoes as your feet’s daily environment – the right environment can help prevent bunions from forming or getting worse. At SCMSC, we recommend choosing shoes that give your toes plenty of wiggle room and support your foot’s natural shape. It’s like giving your feet a comfortable home rather than squeezing them into a tight space. Looking for shoes in the Los Angeles area? Focus on styles with a roomy toe box – your feet will thank you later!

Common Signs of Bunion Development

The development of a bunion often begins subtly but can progress to cause significant discomfort. Early recognition of symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. When a bunion develops, you’ll typically notice a visible bump at the base of your big toe, which may become red and inflamed. The big toe often begins turning inward, pushing against other toes and causing further discomfort. Many patients report increasing difficulty wearing regular shoes, along with recurring calluses and corns where the bunion rubs against footwear.

Minimal Incision Bunion Surgery at SCMSC

At SCMSC, Dr. Nazarian specializes in minimal incision bunionectomy, an advanced surgical technique that transforms the way we treat bunions. This innovative approach allows for precise correction through tiny incisions, offering significant advantages over traditional bunion surgery. Our patients benefit from:

Substantially smaller incisions leading to minimal scarring
Reduced post-operative pain and swelling
Faster recovery and return to regular activities
Lower risk of complications
Superior cosmetic results
Local anesthesia options for suitable candidates

Conservative Treatment Options

Before considering surgery, we explore various non-surgical approaches to managing bunion pain and preventing progression. Treatment begins with conservative measures aimed at relieving pressure and reducing inflammation. We develop personalized treatment plans that consider your specific condition, lifestyle, and goals. These may include specialized footwear recommendations, custom orthotics designed for your unique foot structure, and targeted anti-inflammatory therapies.

When to Consider Surgical Intervention

While many bunions can be managed conservatively, certain situations may indicate the need for surgical correction. Persistent pain affecting daily activities often signals it’s time to consider surgical options. This is particularly true when finding comfortable shoes becomes increasingly difficult, or when you notice the deformity progressing despite conservative care. Many patients seek surgical intervention when their bunions begin impacting other toes or limiting their mobility and activity level.

The SCMSC Advantage in Bunion Care

Dr. Nazarian brings extensive experience in treating bunion deformities using the latest surgical techniques. Our comprehensive approach combines thorough evaluation and diagnosis with customized treatment planning. We utilize state-of-the-art surgical facilities and provide expert post-operative care, ensuring optimal outcomes for every patient.

Recovery and Results with Minimal Incision Surgery

Recovery from minimal incision bunionectomy typically progresses more smoothly than traditional surgery. Most patients begin walking immediately after surgery in a protective surgical shoe. Within 2-3 weeks, many return to regular activities, experiencing minimal post-operative discomfort throughout their recovery. Our patients consistently report high satisfaction rates and excellent long-term results.

Special Considerations and Preventive Care

For patients with underlying health conditions like diabetes or circulation issues, we provide specialized bunion care protocols. Our comprehensive approach includes regular monitoring and coordination with other healthcare providers when needed. We emphasize preventive strategies, including proper footwear selection and regular foot health maintenance, to help prevent bunion progression and maintain optimal foot health.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Don’t let bunion pain limit your life. Whether you’re experiencing early symptoms or have been struggling with bunions for years, SCMSC offers advanced solutions for lasting relief. Our innovative minimal incision approach provides the perfect balance of effective correction and faster recovery. Contact our Los Angeles office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help restore your comfort and mobility.

Call (818) 900-64805 Request Appointment5

Bunions Q & A

The podiatrist at SCMSC in Los Angeles wrapping a foot in gauze suffering from a diabetic foot ulcer

Bunions can be identified by the large bump they cause at the base of the big toe. They may lead to complications such as hammertoe or bursitis if left untreated.

What are the Symptoms of a Bunion?

A bunion typically begins with subtle changes that progress over time. The most noticeable sign is a pronounced bump developing at the base of your big toe. As the condition advances, your big toe gradually shifts toward your other toes, creating a visible angle change. You may experience increasing discomfort, including redness around the joint, persistent soreness, noticeable swelling, and the formation of calluses where the bunion rubs against shoes. Early recognition of these symptoms can lead to more effective treatment outcomes.

Why Should I See a Los Angeles Foot Specialist About My Bunion?

While some people may tolerate mild bunion symptoms, seeking professional evaluation is crucial when you notice changes in your foot structure or experience persistent discomfort. At our Los Angeles podiatry center, we recommend scheduling an evaluation if you’re experiencing worsening pain, difficulty walking, or problems finding comfortable footwear. Early intervention can prevent serious complications like hammertoes or bursitis. Additionally, if your bunion affects your daily activities or causes embarrassment about your foot appearance, our experienced team at SCMSC can discuss treatment options tailored to your needs.

What Type of Bunion Treatments are Available in Los Angeles?

At our Los Angeles surgical center, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments for bunion relief. For early-stage bunions, we begin with conservative approaches including custom orthotic devices specifically designed to properly align your big toe and relieve pressure. We may recommend specialized therapeutic injections or targeted medications to manage inflammation and discomfort. When conservative methods aren’t providing adequate relief, we specialize in minimal incision bunion surgery, an advanced technique that offers faster recovery and better cosmetic results compared to traditional surgery. Dr. Nazarian will work with you to determine the most effective treatment path based on your specific condition, lifestyle needs, and long-term goals.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe occurs when one or more toes develop an abnormal bend at the middle joint, most frequently affecting the second toe. At Southern California Multi-Specialty Center (SCMSC), we understand how this condition can impact your daily comfort and mobility. While often resulting from ill-fitting shoes or injury, hammertoe can also develop in people whose second toe is longer than their big toe, making early intervention crucial for optimal outcomes.

Hammertoe is a foot condition in which one or more toes are abnormally bent. Hammertoe may cause discomfort, pain, corns, calluses and permanent stiffening of the tendon in the affected toe.

Did You Know…

Proper footwear plays a vital role in preventing hammertoe and stopping its progression. Choose shoes with adequate toe room – at least half an inch of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s tip. This becomes increasingly important as we age, as our risk for developing toe deformities increases over time.

Hammertoe Q & A

Senior woman's feet with bunions and hammertoe

Woman’s feet with hammertoe and bunions. Hammertoe is identifiable by the abnormal bend of the toes.

What are the Symptoms of Hammertoe?

When hammertoe develops, you’ll notice a distinctive bend in your toe’s middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. This deformity can lead to persistent discomfort while walking, skin irritation where your toe rubs against shoes, and the development of painful corns and calluses. Without proper treatment, the affected toe may become permanently stiff, making treatment more challenging.

Why Should I See a Podiatrist in Los Angeles About the Condition?

Seeking treatment while your toe remains flexible is crucial for optimal outcomes. Early intervention allows us to employ conservative treatments effectively and, if surgery becomes necessary, enables us to use less invasive techniques. Our Los Angeles patients who seek treatment early typically experience better outcomes and shorter recovery periods.

What Type of Treatments are Available to People with Hammertoe in Los Angeles?

Our approach to hammertoe treatment combines conservative care with innovative surgical techniques when needed. Here’s what makes our treatment approach unique:

Conservative Care Options:

Custom orthotic devices
Specialized toe exercises
Therapeutic taping techniques
Advanced padding methods
Footwear modifications

Minimal Incision Hammertoe Correction

At SCMSC, we specialize in minimal incision techniques for hammertoe correction. This advanced surgical approach offers several advantages over traditional surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, and faster recovery times. The procedure is particularly effective when performed before the toe becomes rigidly fixed in the bent position.

What to Expect During Hammertoe Treatment

Your treatment journey begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the extent of your hammertoe and identify the most effective treatment approach. We’ll discuss all available options, from conservative measures to surgical intervention if necessary, ensuring you understand each step of your treatment plan.

Recovery and Rehabilitation from Hammertoe

Recovery varies depending on the treatment approach chosen. For surgical patients, our minimal incision techniques typically allow for:

Faster return to regular activities
Reduced post-operative discomfort
Better cosmetic results
Lower risk of complications
Improved long-term outcomes

Francine Nazarian, DPM

Take the First Step Toward Comfort

Don’t let hammertoe continue to cause you pain and discomfort. Early intervention offers the best opportunity for successful treatment with minimal intervention. Contact our Los Angeles office today to schedule a consultation and learn about our advanced treatment options.

Make an appointment at SCMSC

We look forward to welcoming you

Call (818) 900-64805 Request Appointment5