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Sesamoiditis causes pain beneath the big toe and is often exacerbated by weight-bearing and specific footwear choices. The two tiny sesamoid bones, located just below the big toe, are integral to foot locomotion. They can be affected by direct trauma or positional changes, especially in individuals with high-arched feet, bunions, or those who wear high heels. For dancers, joggers, and those individuals with certain foot structures, the discomfort associated with sesamoiditis can be particularly challenging. Diagnosis by a podiatrist relies on examination of the toe, and determining range of motion. Other tests, such as synovial fluid analysis and X-rays, may be used to exclude infection and fractures. Pain from sesamoiditis is often intensified by walking and may involve inflammation, warmth, and swelling around the 1st metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint. Footwear modification and custom orthotics can play a pivotal role in managing symptoms. Wearing thick-soled shoes may also help alleviate sesamoid pressure. In cases where a sesamoid fracture without displacement is identified, treatment involves immobilizing the joint with a flat, rigid, surgical shoe. For help with pain resulting from sesamoiditis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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 Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . 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 office located in Thousand Oaks, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Mobility in the ankle joint is vital for everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and transitioning between sitting and standing. Reduced ankle mobility can stem from various factors, with tight calf muscles being a primary contributor. The calf muscle, situated at the back of the shin, plays an essential role in the ability to flex and extend the foot. When this calf muscle becomes tight, it can affect overall ankle movement. In addition, scar tissue at the front of the ankle can also lead to anterior ankle impingement. It may cause discomfort and restrict movement, particularly during activities like squats. To counteract reduced ankle mobility, incorporating targeted exercises into your routine is important. One such effective exercise focuses on stretching the calf muscles, including the gastrocnemius. This wall stretch involves standing upright with one leg straight behind you and the other in front. While keeping the heel of your hindfoot on the floor, lean against the wall. Maintain this position until you feel a light pull on the back of your leg, holding for 45 seconds. Repeat this stretch several times daily to alleviate tightness and enhance ankle mobility. Whether you are an athlete aiming to optimize performance or simply want relief from ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can evaluate the situation and present you with appropriate treatment options. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

An acute ankle sprain refers to a sudden and unexpected injury to the ligaments that support the ankle joint. These ligaments can become stretched or torn when the foot twists or turns beyond its normal range of motion. This injury often results from a misstep, an awkward landing, or a sudden change in direction, such as in sports activities. The causes of an acute ankle sprain are typically linked to excessive or forceful movements that strain the ankle ligaments. Common situations include stumbling on uneven ground, stepping off of a curb, or rolling the ankle during sports activities, such as basketball or soccer. Wearing high heels and poorly fitting footwear can also increase the risk of ankle sprains by destabilizing the ankle. Understanding the definition and causes of an acute ankle sprain is essential for both prevention and timely treatment. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose this condition, and offer treatment methods that are right for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Our feet play a crucial role in maintaining our balance and preventing accidental falls. When it comes to fall prevention, the importance of foot protection is often overlooked. Wearing proper footwear is an essential element in safeguarding against slips, trips, and stumbles. Shoes with slip-resistant soles can provide traction on various surfaces, reducing the risk of sliding. Well-fitting shoes offer stability and support, minimizing the chances of ankle twists or sprains. Additionally, shoes with adequate cushioning can absorb shock and reduce the impact on joints, preventing balance disruptions. Footwear that fits properly and comfortably can help maintain stability and decrease the likelihood of tripping. Whether it is at home, in the workplace, or outdoors, choosing the right shoes for the occasion can make a significant difference in fall prevention, keeping you on your feet and safe. If you would like additional information about the importance of wearing shoes that fit correctly which may help to prevent falling, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Ankle arthritis, characterized by the progressive degeneration of the ankle joint, can cause significant pain and hinder one's ability to move comfortably. When conservative treatments such as medication and bracing prove insufficient, surgery for ankle arthritis may become a viable option. There are several surgical procedures available to address ankle arthritis, each tailored to the individual's specific condition and needs. One common procedure is ankle arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique that allows the surgeon to examine and treat the joint with small incisions. Ankle fusion, or arthrodesis, involves the removal of damaged joint surfaces and the fusion of the tibia and talus bones to create a stable but immobile joint, effectively eliminating pain. Ankle replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is another option, where the damaged joint is replaced with a prosthetic implant, preserving joint motion and relieving pain. The choice of surgery depends on factors like the extent of joint damage, the patient's age, and overall health. While each surgery comes with its own set of considerations and potential risks, these options offer hope for improved ankle function and long-term pain relief for individuals battling ankle arthritis. If you have ankle arthritis and are contemplating surgery as a treatment option, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the best type of surgery for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Children's feet are remarkable in their growth and development, undergoing significant changes from birth to adolescence. During infancy, a baby's feet are mostly cartilage, gradually ossifying into bones. It is fascinating to note that a child will typically grow approximately 17 shoe sizes by the age of two. As they start walking, the arches of their feet begin to form and develop, providing stability and support. Children often have a naturally wider forefoot and a flat arch due to the accumulation of fatty tissue, which eventually diminishes with age and activity. Wearing proper footwear when the time is right is important for healthy foot development, allowing room for growth and adequate support. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can ensure any potential foot issues are addressed early. If you would like additional information about the stages of development in children’s feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

High heels are often celebrated for their fashionable appearance, but it is essential to recognize their potential negative effects on foot health. These stylish shoes can lead to a range of foot problems. First, they alter the natural position of the foot, forcing it into an unnatural shape that puts excessive pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot. This can lead to pain and discomfort and may contribute to conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. Additionally, high heels can affect balance, increasing the risk of ankle sprains or fractures. Prolonged wear of high heels can lead to Achilles tendon shortening, causing pain and reduced flexibility. While high heels may enhance your outfit, it is vital to prioritize your foot health. Opting for comfortable, supportive footwear when possible and limiting high-heel use can help mitigate these negative effects on your feet. If you are interested in gathering more information about the negative effects high heels can have on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection, can typically be recognized by a variety of telltale symptoms. It often starts with intense itching and burning sensations between the toes or on the soles of the feet. As the infection progresses, the affected skin may become red, cracked, and blistered. In severe cases, it can cause the infected skin to peel or become excessively dry. Recognizing these symptoms is important for timely intervention. Treatment generally involves antifungal creams, powders, or sprays that target the fungus responsible for the infection. Maintaining good foot hygiene, keeping the feet dry, and avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas can aid in both treatment and prevention. Understanding and addressing athlete's foot promptly can bring relief and restore foot health. If you have developed a stubborn case athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can prescribe advanced medication and offer permanent treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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