Items filtered by date: May 2023

Many people experience foot pain occasionally, or perhaps on a daily basis. It can occur for various reasons, including wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or from having an abnormal foot structure. Additionally, heel pain can be a common problem for patients, which can be indicative of a heel spur or plantar fasciitis. Stretching the heel can be done easily by standing on a step and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. This may also be helpful in relieving arch pain. There are several muscles in the feet which move the toes, and stretching them may help to keep them flexible. The probability of developing hammertoe may decrease when the toes are frequently stretched. Performing these stretches can keep the toes from curling, which is the noticeable symptom in hammertoe. If you would like to learn about additional stretching techniques for the feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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.

There are several symptoms that accompany ankle pain, including stiffness, pain, and swelling. Ankle pain can happen for various reasons, such as a fall, a direct blow to the ankle, or if it suddenly twists beyond its normal range of motion. An existing medical condition can cause the muscles surrounding the ankle joint to weaken, which may lead to having ankle pain. Many people have difficulty walking with ankle pain, and choose to wrap their ankle with an elastic bandage. This is often successful in providing stability as it heals. Relief may be found when the affected foot is frequently elevated, and it is beneficial to avoid standing for long periods of time. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine how severe it is, in addition to offering you correct treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet are often affected when rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, occurs. There are several joints in the feet, and this condition can make it difficult to walk and complete daily activities. RA may be responsible if the feet swell and become inflamed, often causing embarrassment. This condition may lead to bone spurs, numbness, and plantar fasciitis, which can all cause pain and discomfort. Patients afflicted with RA may need to change their shoe size and wear custom-made orthotics. RA is a painful disease, and many patients report they cannot walk without shoes. Patients with RA also report losing range of motion in their feet. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the quality of an individual’s life. If you have developed this painful condition, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide the best treatment for you.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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 and ankle needs.

Falling is the leading cause of injury the majority of emergency departments handle. Common injuries from falling can include hip fractures, bruising, or head injuries, which can be serious concerns among the elderly population. People who are older can notice their eyesight may have become poorer, and it is beneficial to have routine eye examinations which can replace existing eyeglasses. Having regular physical examinations is an effective method in updating prescribed medicine, which may be helpful in preventing falls. There are effective fall prevention methods that can be implemented in the home. These can include repairing broken steps that lead into the house, and it can be helpful to check existing lighting surrounding the front door. Additionally, in the kitchen area, scatter rugs can be replaced with rubber backed rugs that can better stay in place. Many people install grab bars in the toilet and shower area, and keep a non-slip rubber mat in the bathtub or shower. If you would like more information about effective fall prevention methods, it is suggested that you discuss this with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful tips.

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.