Proper athletic shoe fitting is essential for protecting the feet, toes, and ankles from injury and strain. Shoes should bend where the foot bends, which is usually near the ball of the foot. The width must match the natural shape of the foot without squeezing the toes together. Because many people have feet of different sizes, both shoes should be tried on, with sizing based on the longest toe, which may not always be the big toe. Proper heel support helps prevent slipping and ankle instability, and adequate midfoot support allows smoother movement during activity. Shoe design features like rocker soles, stack height, and heel-to-toe drop are important factors. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of the foot, leg length differences, or issues like Morton’s toe to guide shoe selection and help prevent injury. If you experience foot pain from the shoes you wear for your sport or activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, appropriate treatment, and guidance.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

Peroneal tendinitis occurs when the tendons running along the outer ankle become inflamed or weakened due to overuse, repetitive strain, or injury. These tendons, which connect the peroneal muscles to the bones of the foot, help stabilize the ankle, point the foot downward, and turn it outward. People with high arches, a history of ankle sprains, or those who frequently engage in running or sports involving quick pivoting are at a higher risk. Symptoms include gradual pain on the outer ankle that worsens with activity, stiffness in the morning, and discomfort when the foot is turned inward. A podiatrist can diagnose peroneal tendinitis through an examination and imaging, and provide treatment to reduce inflammation, correct abnormal foot mechanics, and restore tendon strength. In more severe cases, immobilization or surgery may be required if the tendon has significant tearing. If you have symptoms of peroneal tendinitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Fungal nails, medically known as onychomycosis, are caused by fungi infecting the nail bed. This is often due to warm, moist environments, poor foot hygiene, or minor nail injuries. Symptoms typically include thickened, discolored nails that may appear yellow, white, or brown. The toenails can become brittle, crumbly, or distorted, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor. Although fungal nails are often painless, they can cause discomfort when wearing shoes or walking. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose fungal toenail infections through a physical examination and laboratory testing. Treatment options include topical antifungal medication, oral antifungal drugs, or professional nail debridement to remove infected tissue. Because fungal toenail infections can worsen over time and spread to other nails, early diagnosis and treatment are important. To protect your toenail health and prevent further complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.