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It may seem improbable, but riding a bicycle can cause immense foot pain. The main reason for this pain is that all the force expended during a ride goes through the soles of the feet. For that reason, especially if you ride often and for a long duration, heel and arch pain can develop. Cycling footwear and cleat position are often involved, along with other causes, such as plantar fasciitis. If plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot, is ignored, it also may result in calcium deposits. Biomechanical issues, such as ankle pronation, flat feet, or high arches can lead to Achilles tendonitis. Certain exercises before and after each ride can help to reduce arch soreness, and orthotics can go a long way toward prevention of biomechanical issues. In addition, wearing cycling shoes that fit properly can lower the risk of foot pain. For more information about custom orthotics and foot pain from cycling, please consult a podiatrist. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a highly widespread form of heel pain that occurs when the band of tissues under the arch of the foot (the plantar fascia) becomes inflamed. After contacting a podiatrist and receiving treatment for plantar fasciitis, there are several ways to gauge how you are recovering. First, it might be a sign that you are healing if the pain is starting to become localized instead of distributed throughout your foot and ankle. Additionally, pain from plantar fasciitis can be most pronounced when taking the first steps of the day. Therefore, if you notice reduced or diminished morning pain, this might be a sign that you are recovering. Lastly, you may be recovering from plantar fasciitis if you find that your normal range of motion in the feet and ankles is returning. Recovery times can vary from person to person. However, it commonly takes patients about six months to fully recover. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

As a diabetic, foot problems can become a major concern. The result of long-term high blood sugar levels often leads to neuropathy, which can endanger the health of the feet and lower limbs. A daily foot care routine is imperative to help avoid foot ulcers and other conditions that could lead to gangrene or limb removal. Experts recommend the following measures that can help to protect your feet. Reserve time each day to check the feet for sores, wounds, and cuts, especially those that seem to be taking a long time to heal. Wear shoes that fit properly and do not rub or pinch. Keep your feet elevated whenever possible. Do mild foot and toe exercises to keep them moving and encourage blood flow to the area. Check for signs of inflammation or infection by being aware of unusual changes in the temperature of your feet. Avoid wearing anything tight around the legs and ankles, as that can restrict blood flow. Also, avoid smoking, which increases the risk of serious problems. It is strongly suggested that as a diabetic you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who is equipped to help manage foot-related complications from this disease.

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.

There are twenty six bones in the foot, and the heel bone is considered to be the largest one. Common causes of heel pain are overuse, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. These reasons can lead to painful conditions that can include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, reactive arthritis, or heel spurs. Plantar fasciitis is an ailment that can occur when the tissue that runs along the sole of the foot becomes inflamed, which is known as the plantar fascia. It may be treated by using anti-inflammatory medications, or relief may possibly come from wearing custom-made orthotics. The Achilles tendon is found on the calf, and it connects the heel to the calf muscles. An Achilles tendon injury can lead to heel pain, and it can cause difficulty in walking. There are several types of arthritis, and reactive arthritis is triggered by an infection. It can appear in the joints of the body after the infection has been treated. Patients who develop a heel spur often confuse it with plantar fasciitis. The symptoms are similar, despite the fact that they are two different conditions. A bony growth on the heel is defined as a heel spur, and often needs medical treatment for proper healing. If you have any type of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause of your heel pain is, and offer correct treatment solutions. 

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.

Most babies are born with flat feet, but the arch fully develops during the teenage years. There are some children that have a joint hypermobility condition, and this is referred to as low muscle tone. This may prevent the arch from developing, which could result in having flat feet in their adult years. One type of flat feet is called flexible flat feet. The ligaments hold the bones in place in addition to supporting the arches. Children who have joint hypermobility do not have the same support as those without it, and the ligaments are more flexible than normal. There are stretches and exercises that can be performed that may help to strengthen the arch. An effective stretch is done by standing up while slightly leaning back. This will propel the muscles in the front of the ankle to become stronger. Additionally, standing on one leg will activate the muscles in the ankle to maintain balance as well as stability. If you have questions about flat feet and would like to learn more about how to perform effective stretches, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

If your toddler seems to have foot pain, he or she may not be able to sleep and will often complain about walking or putting on shoes. Sometimes their foot discomfort is nothing more than growing pains that begin in the late part of the second year of life and last until age 4. Toddlers can also feel foot pain due to muscle soreness or overuse from zealous running, jumping, and climbing. However, other things may also be brewing that cause foot pain in these youngsters. Flatfoot is when the foot does not develop a normal arch. It is normal for babies to have flat feet, but if it continues beyond age 2 or 3 and the feet have taken on their shape, it can cause pain in the arch, heel, ankle, leg, hip, and back, as well as rolling of the foot. A child may also suffer from restless leg syndrome. This is a neurological condition where sensations are felt in the legs and feet. While the cause is unknown, this is found more often in small children and early walkers with allergic conditions, asthma, and eczema. It may also be due to a particular medication, anemia, or childhood diabetes. Toddler foot pain may be due to a nutritional deficiency, such as dehydration, low potassium, and magnesium. Sever’s disease is a condition that develops from an injury to the growth plate in the heel. The growth plate becomes inflamed and may cause pain until the feet have finished growing. Contact a podiatrist if your child’s foot pain persists or worsens. This professional can see if one of these conditions is present that needs attention and treatment.

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.

The pain located between the third and fourth toes is a foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It is also referred to as Morton’s syndrome, and is defined as a compressed nerve in the top of the foot. Patients notice that it is difficult to push off with the forefoot, and it can feel like a pins and needles sensation. Morton’s neuroma may be prevalent among people who have flat feet, and this may cause the foot to gradually compress the nerve. Many cases of Morton’s neuroma are caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely. Additionally, participating in sporting activities like golf and tennis may lead to this condition. The affected foot will often feel better when it is frequently elevated and rested, and it may help to wear a protective pad in the shoes for additional cushioning. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat it accordingly.

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.

Research has indicated that approximately one in three Americans who are 65 or older will fall, which is a leading cause of hospitalization for adults in New York City. Many people develop a fear of falling, and this can be detrimental to completing daily chores and experiencing new activities. When people fall, their feet are often negatively affected. Ankles or toes may be broken, and this can cause severe pain and discomfort. There are simple prevention techniques that can be implemented to help prevent painful falling episodes. These can include incorporating gentle exercise and stretching routines into the daily regime, clearing clutter in the household, and improving lighting in the living area. Additionally, it is beneficial to have regular physical examinations performed, as this is helpful in monitoring existing medications. Glasses can be updated when the eyes are checked, and it is beneficial to have this done annually. Wearing shoes that fit correctly can be helpful in possibly preventing falls, and maintaining proper foot care is essential in having the feet feel good. Some people find it useful to have grab bars installed in the bath and toilet area, in addition to using a bathmat. If you would like to know about how to protect the feet and how to reduce the number of falls, please ask a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

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.