Falls are a leading cause of injury, and problems in the feet often play a quiet but important role. Painful joints, reduced sensation, and muscle weakness can interfere with balance and awareness of the ground. Conditions that affect nerve signaling may make it harder to feel uneven surfaces, while limited motion in the toes or ankles can disrupt a natural walking pattern. Thickened nails, skin buildup, or poorly fitting shoes may also alter stability and increase the risk of tripping. Warning signs often include unsteadiness, frequent stumbling, slower walking speed, or avoiding activity due to fear of losing balance. Addressing these issues early can make a meaningful difference. Treatment may include footwear guidance, custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, nail and skin care, or management of nerve and joint conditions. Improving foot function supports safer movement and confidence. If your balance feels off or falls have occurred, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can evaluate foot-related risk factors and recommend appropriate care.

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 Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. 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 Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe can happen suddenly or develop over time. Common causes include stubbing a toe against furniture, dropping something heavy on it, falls, or sports injuries. Repeated pressure from running or jumping may also lead to small cracks in the toe bones. Symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and trouble walking. Some people notice that the toe looks out of place and has become stiff. Treatment depends on the severity of the break and which toe is affected. A podiatrist may protect the toe by taping it to a nearby toe for stabilization, termed buddy taping. Other options include wearing a stiff or supportive shoe and limiting weight-bearing activities while the toe heals. If the bone is not lined up properly or the joint is involved, surgery may be needed. If you believe you have broken a toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the underside or back of the heel bone and are often linked to ongoing strain on the foot. They may not always be visible, but sometimes cause swelling or redness around the heel. Many people feel sharp or stabbing pain with the first steps in the morning, followed by aching or soreness as the day continues. Discomfort can also occur after long periods of standing or walking. Causes include repetitive stress, plantar fascia tension, obesity, and high impact activities. A podiatrist can help from the start by evaluating symptoms, examining foot structure, and using imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Early treatment may include pain and inflammation management, stretching programs, and custom orthotics. Care can then progress into activity modification, and advanced treatments when needed to reduce strain and improve function. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Padel is a fast-growing racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller enclosed court with quick directional changes and constant lateral movement. Because the game relies on rapid pivots, sudden stops, and explosive pushes off the foot, it places notable stress on the lower extremities. Many players develop issues such as ankle sprains from twisting on the enclosed court surface, peroneal tendon irritation from repeated side-to-side motions, or plantar fasciitis caused by continuous impact during rallies. Stress to the forefoot can also lead to metatarsalgia or aggravate bunions and hammertoes, especially in players wearing tight or unsupportive shoes. Early recognition of soreness, swelling, or instability is key, since untreated injuries can worsen quickly in such a dynamic sport. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist if ankle or foot pain persists, as prompt care helps maintain comfort, performance, and long-term foot health.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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