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The potential dangers of frequently wearing high heels may outweigh the appeal of the attractiveness these types of shoes can possess. There are uncomfortable foot conditions that can develop as a  result of wearing high heels, consisting of bunions, hammertoes, and corns. Many of these ailments may be prevented by choosing shoes that fit correctly, and the feet may feel better when the toes are exposed. It is beneficial to treat existing blisters with a protective covering as high heels are worn, and it may help to wear flatter shoes as the healing process occurs. If you would like additional information about how wearing high heels can affect your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

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.

Patients who have inflammation in the joints of their feet may be experiencing a certain type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis can make it difficult to move the feet, and may be accompanied by stiffness and pain. This can be caused by a loss of cartilage, and the affected joints may change shape and become swollen. Rheumatoid arthritis can occur when the immune system attacks the joints, and may affect the feet, in addition to other parts of the body. The feet can become weak, and it may be challenging to perform daily activities. If you would like more information on how arthritis can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the proper information.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and can endure numerous aches and pains as a result of bearing the weight of the body. A common type of foot pain comes from developing a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This ailment affects the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The discomfort is often felt in the heel and may feel its worst upon arising in the morning. Additionally, heel pain can be associated with a heel spur. This is described as a small growth that extends from the heel, and can develop due to repetitive stress that can come from frequently participating in running and jumping activities. A stress fracture is a hairline crack in one of the bones in the foot and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This type of foot injury gradually develops. Common symptoms may include a stabbing pain and general discomfort in the part of the foot that is affected. If you have any type of foot pain it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist can properly diagnose your condition and offer you the best treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Tinea Pedis, also known as “Athlete’s Foot,” is a fungal infection of the feet. There are many types of fungus that can cause athlete's foot. These fungi live and thrive in moist environments. Consequently, the fungus is commonly spread in shower stalls, locker rooms, and damp footwear. Proper foot hygiene, particularly keeping the feet clean and dry, is one of the key steps to preventing athlete’s foot. The most repeated signs of athlete’s foot can include a rash, pain, itching, and burning feet typically between the toes. If you are experiencing these symptoms it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to provide proper treatment which may include a topical cream, spray, or powder. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center .  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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 medical term for a bunion is referred to as hallux valgus. It appears as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe and may cause wearing shoes to be uncomfortable. The big toe can become misaligned, and may affect the remaining toes. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include pain, inflammation, and the toe may appear red. If a bunion is left untreated, arthritis may develop, which can cause deeper joint pain. Genetic factors may play a significant role in developing a bunion, in addition to wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. If you notice a bump extending from your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat bunions.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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 Thousand Oaks, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There is a form of arthritis known as gout, which is caused by excess uric acid in the blood. It can be caused by eating foods that are high in purine levels. These can consist of shellfish, red meat, and drinks that have a large sugar content. Common symptoms that many patients experience can include swelling, redness, and  severe pain in the big toe and surrounding areas. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is rested, and it can help to refrain from wearing shoes. Obesity may be a contributing factor in developing gout so it is beneficial to lose weight by eating healthy foods, and by drinking plenty of fresh water daily. If you suffer from frequent gout attacks, it is advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment options for you.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Some people may experience a condition that is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. This ailment causes the feet to sweat excessively and can cause discomfort and embarrassment. It can occur as a result of a thyroid disorder, genetic factors, and obesity. In severe cases, sweaty feet may cause shoes to slip off, and dangerous scenarios may happen while driving if the affected foot slips off the brake. Mild cases of plantar hyperhidrosis may be treated with anti-anxiety medication. For more severe cases, surgery may be considered to clip the nerve, and permanently remove it. If you are afflicted with this condition, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat plantar hyperhidrosis.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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 five elongated bones that are located in the feet which are known as the metatarsal bones. These bones absorb the impact that occurs as walking and running are done, and as a result, can become fractured. Stress fractures are considered to be hairline fractures and can happen when repetitive activities are frequently performed. Common symptoms of stress fractures include pain, swelling, and bruising. It is beneficial to avoid putting weight on the affected foot as the healing process takes place. It can occur as a result of a sudden change in running, or from eating foods that have insufficient nutrients. The average recovery time is approximately six to eight weeks, and it may help to gradually return to high impact activities. If you are suffering from a stress fracture, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment option is for you.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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.