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Overpronation is a common foot condition that can have a significant effect on your feet as well as your overall health. This malady occurs when the arches of the feet collapse excessively inward while walking or running. While some degree of pronation is normal, overpronation can lead to various issues. One of the most noticeable effects of overpronation is pain and discomfort. The excessive rolling of the foot can cause strain on the arches, leading to arch and heel pain. It can also contribute to problems in other body parts, such as shin splints, knee pain, and lower back pain as the misalignment in the feet affects the lower body's alignment. Over time, untreated overpronation can lead to more serious issues, including bunions, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. It also may be connected to development of hammertoes and Morton’s neuroma. Fortunately, podiatrists can provide solutions like custom orthotics and exercises to help alleviate the effects of overpronation and prevent further complications. If you suspect you may have overpronation issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a gait evaluation and discussion on whether custom orthotics may be needed to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

Big toe pain can significantly disrupt daily activities and overall comfort. To address this issue effectively, it's essential to understand the potential causes behind discomfort in the big toe. Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and a risk of infection. Bunions, often resulting from ill-fitting shoes, manifest as bony protrusions at the base of the big toe, causing chronic pain and deformity that can reduce mobility. Gout, stemming from excess uric acid buildup, triggers sudden, intense pain and swelling in the big toe joint, making each step excruciating. Arthritis, whether osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, also can target the big toe joint, causing persistent pain, stiffness, and potential joint damage. Fractures within the big toe bones, caused by trauma or overuse, inflict acute pain and hinder mobility. For help with big toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, or CMT, is a disorder of the peripheral nerves, responsible for transmitting information to and from the brain and spinal cord. CMT disrupts these nerves, leading to sensory loss and muscle deterioration. This results in symptoms like balance problems, foot abnormalities, pain, and difficulty walking. Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease is a progressive condition, worsening over time, and affecting about 150,000 people in the United States and 3 million worldwide. It is important to understand the peripheral nervous system to comprehend CMT. The peripheral nervous system links the central nervous system to organs, limbs, and skin, enabling the transmission of information and regulating functions like heartbeat and breathing. Nerve signals are carried by axons covered with myelin, akin to electrical wires in a home. CMT can cause myelin decay, slowing nerve signals and affecting longer limbs first. If you are having peripheral nerve damage affecting your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that will provide you relief with everyday functioning.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.

Bunions are painful bumps at the base of the big toe that can make walking uncomfortable and even interfere with your daily activities. When it comes to non-surgical treatment of bunions, often the first step is changing your footwear. Shoes with a wider toe box can give your toes more room to breathe and reduce friction. Toe spreaders can also be beneficial by helping to maintain proper toe alignment and preventing further deviation. Finally, your podiatrist can prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers to provide relief. If non-surgical options fail to provide relief and the bunion severely impacts your daily life, bunion surgery is an option to consider. Two common types of bunion surgery are osteotomy and fusion. Osteotomy involves removing a portion of the bone to realign the toes properly. Fusion surgery entails joining the joint at the base of the toe and is typically reserved for more severe cases. Recovery from bunion surgery can take up to eight weeks, while swelling may persist for several months. A podiatrist can provide personalized advice based on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. It is suggested that you make an appointment today.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Morton's neuroma, a condition that often goes undetected, can cause considerable discomfort and disrupt daily life. This condition involves a thickening of the tissue around a nerve that runs between the third and fourth toes, typically causing a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. The causes of Morton's neuroma are multifaceted, often arising from repeated stress on the feet, and ill-fitting footwear that squeezes the toes. Additionally, reasons why Morton’s neuroma may develop can include having certain foot deformities that lead to pressure on the nerves. High heels and activities that involve repetitive forefoot impact can exacerbate the condition. Recognizing the factors that contribute to Morton's neuroma is the first step in seeking relief and adopting preventive measures to ensure continued foot health. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Diabetic foot ulcers, or DFUs, are a common complication of diabetes, resulting from prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage blood vessels and nerves. This condition impedes wound healing and leads to ulcers in weight-bearing areas such as the ball of the feet, heels, and toes. These types of diabetic foot ulcers can have severe consequences, contributing to a significant number of hospital admissions among people with diabetes. To effectively manage and treat DFUs, podiatrists use classification and scoring systems that can provide valuable insights into the severity and potential complications of these wounds. One widely recognized classification system is Wagner's, which assesses DFUs based on six grades. Factors such as ulcer depth, tissue necrosis extent, and bone infection presence are examined. The results range from Grade 0, which indicates no open lesions, to Grade 5, which shows gangrene of the entire foot. Wagner's system aids in treatment planning and understanding ulcer severity. If you suffer from diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor the stages of the ulcers.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Swollen feet, an uncomfortable and often puzzling issue, can cast a shadow over daily activities. The causes behind this condition can be as diverse as they are unexpected. Prolonged periods of standing or sitting, especially in hot weather, can lead to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities. Pregnancy, with its hormonal shifts and increased pressure on blood vessels, is a common culprit. Health conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver problems can disrupt the body's fluid balance, resulting in swelling. Injuries, infections, and certain medications can also contribute to swelling. Recognizing swollen feet is relatively simple, which is easy to notice as the feet are puffy and tight. Additionally, there can be an indentation in the skin, indicating the feet are swollen. Understanding the underlying triggers empowers individuals to make informed choices, seek medical guidance from a podiatrist, and embrace measures that foster foot health and overall well-being. If you have swollen feet, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment methods.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

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 feel free to contact our office located in Thousand Oaks, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that affects individuals of all ages and activity levels. There are several potential causes of heel pain, with plantar fasciitis being the most common culprit. This condition arises due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Other causes of heel pain may include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, bursitis, or stress fractures. Effective treatment for heel pain depends on the underlying cause. Getting adequate rest and taking over-the-counter pain medications may offer temporary relief. However, addressing the root cause is crucial for long-term improvement. Performing stretching exercises, wearing orthotic inserts and supportive footwear are often recommended to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Seeking professional medical advice is essential to accurately diagnose the cause of heel pain, which can determine what the most appropriate treatment plan is for a swift recovery. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Pressure injuries on the heel bone, also called heel pressure ulcers, result from prolonged pressure and friction. The heel is the second most common site for such injuries due to its small area bearing the weight of the lower extremities. People with immobility, diabetes, leg spasms, or impaired blood flow are more susceptible to these injuries, affecting their quality of life. Prevention and healing involve alleviating pressure by using supportive devices. Such injuries can lead to open wounds, blisters, or deep tissue damage, increasing the risk of infection. Treatment options include pressure relief, proper wound care, specialized cushioning or boots, and, in severe cases, surgery. Due to the complexity and potential complications of such foot wounds, if you suffer from this, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.