Padel is a fast-growing racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller enclosed court with quick directional changes and constant lateral movement. Because the game relies on rapid pivots, sudden stops, and explosive pushes off the foot, it places notable stress on the lower extremities. Many players develop issues such as ankle sprains from twisting on the enclosed court surface, peroneal tendon irritation from repeated side-to-side motions, or plantar fasciitis caused by continuous impact during rallies. Stress to the forefoot can also lead to metatarsalgia or aggravate bunions and hammertoes, especially in players wearing tight or unsupportive shoes. Early recognition of soreness, swelling, or instability is key, since untreated injuries can worsen quickly in such a dynamic sport. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist if ankle or foot pain persists, as prompt care helps maintain comfort, performance, and long-term foot health.

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 one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are a progressive foot condition that creates a bony bump at the base of the big toe joint. They are often caused by inherited foot structure, improper footwear, or repeated stress on the foot. A bunion may look swollen, red, or enlarged and can feel achy, stiff, or painful, especially during walking or while wearing tight shoes. Some people notice burning sensations, throbbing, or limited range of motion in the toe. A podiatrist can help from the start by evaluating foot alignment, gait, and joint function, and may use imaging to confirm severity. Treatment options range from footwear guidance and padding to custom orthotics designed to reduce pressure and discomfort. Early care may slow progression and improve daily mobility and overall foot health. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swelling in the feet develops when fluid collects in the soft tissues surrounding the ankles and toes. A sprain or fracture often causes blood and fluid to move into the injured area as part of the healing process, possibly leading to puffiness and discomfort. Edema can also cause swollen feet, especially when fluid gathers around the lower legs due to gravity. Long hours of standing, sitting in one position, or wearing shoes with inadequate support can contribute to swelling. Medical conditions, such as gout in the big toe, an infection in the foot, or circulation problems, can also result in swollen feet. A podiatrist can examine the feet, identify the cause of the swelling, and recommend treatment to improve comfort and protect long-term foot function. If you notice abnormal swelling in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert guidance.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Properly measuring your shoe size is essential for comfort, support, and foot health. The most accurate method involves using a Brannock device, a specialized tool designed to measure the length, width, and arch length of your foot. This ensures that your shoes fit properly and reduces the risk of blisters, bunions, or other foot problems caused by wearing ill-fitting footwear. A podiatrist can help guide you through the measurement process, assess your foot structure, and recommend shoes that support your unique shape and gait. Regular measurements are important, especially as feet can change over time due to age, weight, or activity level. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer additional information about the importance of proper shoe fitting. 

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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