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Stress fractures of the feet are particularly tricky to recognize. They are hairline cracks in the bones, frequently the long metatarsal bones in the midfoot and the calcaneus bone in the heel. They are considered repetitive injuries and that means the more you repeat an activity, the worse they become. But it can take a while before you even notice the problem. Signs that may help to identify a stress fracture include a deep ache in the foot, a dull pain midway into the activity that fades when you rest, and a pain that just doesn’t go away. Other hints are pain that occurs even when you are not active, pain that worsens at night, and pain that begins about a week after increasing your activity level. Treatment for stress fractures may take weeks or even months. As soon as you recognize that something is wrong, it is a good idea to stop the activity causing the pain and make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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 Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Toenail fungus is a noticeable foot condition. A toenail that is dark and thick can be caused by a fungus that is known as dermatophytes. The nail can change shape, and the color may differ as a result of the area which is affected underneath the nail. Many times, the nail on the big toe is the first to start developing toenail fungus, and in severe cases, it may travel to other nails. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to toenail fungus. These can include diabetes, problems with circulation, or a weakened immune system. If this condition is not treated promptly, the nails may begin to crumble, and the fungus may grow under the nail, and possibly ooze. Effective treatment may take months to completely heal the fungus, and it is important to stay consistent with applying creams, and taking medication. A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat this condition, and it is suggested that you schedule an appointment as soon as possible so the proper treatment can begin.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

Seniors may be able to remain independent longer when fall prevention techniques are incorporated into their daily routine. These can include performing exercise programs that can help to strengthen the body as well as balancing stretches at home. Additionally, many elderly people make changes to their living environment, including removing frayed rugs and improving lighting in the household. Other effective methods to prevent falling consist of having a grab bar installed in the toilet and shower areas, and it can help to use a non-slip bath mat. It is suggested that physical and eye examinations be performed regularly, and this can help to update existing medication and eyeglass prescriptions. Falling episodes may be lessened when the correct shoes are worn and clutter in the home is cleared. Falling can impact the feet negatively so it is important to learn how to prevent a fall from occurring. If you would like more information about how to prevent falls, please consider speaking with 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.

A corn on the foot can cause extreme pain despite its small size. A corn is defined as a small area of hardened skin that generally forms on top of the toes, or on the side of the pinky toe. Some people have corns that develop between the toes which are referred to as soft corns. This can occur from wearing shoes that are too tight which may cause excess pressure. Additionally, seed corns are typically found on the soles of the foot and may be seen in clusters. Many patients can find relief when thinner socks are worn and larger shoes are purchased. A protective pad may be worn over the corn which may help to reduce existing friction. If the corns are severe and are interfering with daily activities, an X-ray may be taken which can help to determine the cause. It is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you suffer from corns, who can guide you toward correct options.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Each foot is composed of several nerves, tendons, and ligaments. When there is an overgrowth of tissue surrounding the nerves, it may indicate a condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma. The tissue compresses a nerve, and it can cause discomfort. It typically develops between the second and third toe, and the pain is generally felt in the ball of the foot. A common symptom that many people feel is the sensation of a pebble or marble in their shoe which may lead to a numbing and tingling feeling. It can develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit well, or from participating in high impact sporting activities. It can affect people who have existing foot conditions that can include bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet. A proper diagnosis  can help to determine how this condition gets treated. This can consist of having an X-ray taken, or possibly having an ultrasound or MRI done. Some patients who are afflicted with Morton’s neuroma choose to have surgery which can permanently remove the neuroma. Please consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

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.

Many experts think it's important for parents to have their children walk barefoot as often as possible. This is beneficial in strengthening the entire foot. Additionally, the toes can become stronger and more flexible by grasping the floor, and circulation and muscle tone may improve. Children’s feet will feel good when they are washed and dried thoroughly, especially between the toes. There are common foot conditions in children that can easily be prevented.  Ingrown toenails may be avoided when the toenails are trimmed properly.  These can include corns and bunions which generally develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection and may be avoided when appropriate shoes are worn in public areas. When you see your child’s shoes are too small, it is strongly suggested that new shoes are purchased promptly that are comfortable and fit correctly. If you would like additional information about tips on how to care for children’s feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

When the skin on your heels is allowed to become overly dry, rough and thick, this can sometimes set the stage for cracked heels to develop. That is because when the weight of the body bears down—and the heel naturally spreads out—this callused, inflexible skin can crack. If cracked heels (heel fissures) are left untreated, they can deepen, become painful and possibly even bleed or become infected. The best way to treat cracked heels is to avoid getting them at all. Applying topical emollients or occlusive moisturizers at night and covering your feet with socks can help seal in moisture and keep the heel hydrated. Also, gently massaging the heels with a pumice stone may help to smooth out mildly cracked heels, but this practice is not advised for people with diabetes or nerve damage. If your heels are badly cracked, red, painful, bleeding, or you believe they may be infected, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist to receive professional care.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

It is beneficial for women who are pregnant to take frequent breaks during the work day. Many jobs require standing or walking for the majority of the time, and foot pain and swelling may develop. It is important to wear shoes that fit well and are comfortable, in addition to practicing simple stretches while standing. Ideal shoes include those with adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and enough cushioning in the heel area. Stress can be taken off the feet by tightening the core muscles. Also, shifting the weight from one foot to the other may help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. Some pregnant women choose to wear compression stockings, and these can keep circulation normal. It is known that pregnancy can affect the feet because of the added weight that is endured. If you have questions about how to protect the feet while pregnant, please confer with a podiatrist. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.