As we step into a new year, it’s a great time to address those nagging health questions you’ve been pondering. When it comes to your feet, a little knowledge can go a long way in preventing pain and maintaining an active lifestyle. At Diablo Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists in Walnut Creek, Antioch, and San Ramon hear a wide range of questions from patients every day. To help you start 2026 on the right foot, we’ve compiled answers to five of the most common questions we receive. 

1. Why does the pain in my heel get worse in the morning? 

This is the classic sign of plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. When you sleep, this ligament tightens up. Your first steps in the morning stretch the fascia, causing sharp, stabbing pain. As you walk around and the tissue warms up, the pain often subsides, but it may return after long periods of standing or activity. 

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What can be done? 

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Stretching: Gentle stretches for your calf and plantar fascia, especially before getting out of bed, can be very effective.

Proper Footwear: Avoid going barefoot and wear supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning. 

Custom Orthotics: A podiatrist can create custom orthotics to correct biomechanical issues and reduce stress on the plantar fascia. 

Advanced Treatments: If conservative measures don’t provide relief, we offer advanced treatments like Sanexas electrotherapy and regenerative medicine at our Walnut Creek, Antioch, and San Ramon locations. 

2. Are my bunions going to get worse? Do I need surgery? 

A bunion is a progressive bone deformity. This means that, yes, it will likely get worse over time if left untreated. The bump on the side of your big toe joint can become larger and more painful, making it difficult to find comfortable shoes and perform daily activities. 

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Do you need surgery? Not necessarily. The decision to have bunion surgery is based on your level of pain and how much the bunion interferes with your life. Many people can manage their bunion symptoms with conservative treatments, such as: 

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Wearing wider shoes to reduce pressure on the joint. 

Using padding to cushion the bunion. 

Taking anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling. 

Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics and slow the progression of the deformity. 

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However, if your bunion pain is severe and limits your activities, minimally invasive bunion surgery may be the best option. This advanced procedure, offered at all Diablo Foot & Ankle locations, allows for a faster recovery and less scarring than traditional surgery.

3. What’s the difference between over-the-counter insoles and custom orthotics? 

This is a fantastic question. While both are placed inside your shoes, their function and effectiveness are vastly different. 

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Over-the-counter (OTC) insoles are mass-produced and designed to provide generic cushioning and support. They can be helpful for people with mild discomfort or those who need a little extra padding in their shoes. However, they are not designed to correct specific biomechanical problems. 

Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices created from a precise 3D scan or mold of your feet. They are prescribed by a podiatrist to correct your specific foot imbalances, control abnormal motion, and provide support where you need it most. They are a powerful tool for treating a wide range of conditions, from plantar fasciitis to diabetic foot problems.

Think of it like the difference between reading glasses from the drugstore and a prescription pair from an optometrist. The OTC version might help a little, but the prescription version is tailored to your exact needs. 

4. My toenail looks yellow and thick. What is it, and how can I fix it? 

This sounds like a classic case of toenail fungus (onychomycosis). This common infection occurs when fungi get under your toenail, causing it to become discolored, thick, and brittle. It can be unsightly and, if left untreated, can spread to other nails and even cause pain. 

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How can you fix it? While over-the-counter treatments are rarely effective, a podiatrist can offer several powerful solutions: 

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Prescription topical or oral medications can attack the fungus from the inside out or the outside in. 

Laser therapy is a state-of-the-art treatment that uses light energy to safely and painlessly destroy the fungus in the nail bed. This is one of the most effective treatments available and is offered at all Diablo Foot & Ankle clinics.

5. When should I see a podiatrist instead of my regular doctor? 

While your primary care physician is an essential part of your healthcare team, a podiatrist is a specialist with years of advanced training specifically in the foot and ankle. You should see a podiatrist for any condition that affects your feet or ankles, especially if: 

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You have persistent pain in your feet or ankles. 

You have diabetes (you should see a podiatrist for an annual foot exam). You have a sports injury affecting your foot or ankle. 

You have a bunion, hammertoe, or other foot deformity. 

You have a thick, discolored toenail. 

You have a persistent ingrown toenail. 

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For any foot or ankle concern, the specialists at Diablo Foot & Ankle in Walnut Creek, Antioch, and San Ramon have the expertise and technology to provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. 

Your Foot Health Questions, Answered 

We hope these answers have been helpful. If you have other questions or are experiencing any foot or ankle issues, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your foot health is our priority. 

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Contact Diablo Foot & Ankle today at (925) 464-1982 to schedule a consultation at the Bay Area location most convenient for you. Let us help you walk into 2026 with comfort and confidence. 

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.