Reasons to Visit a Podiatrist
Our feet are our body's foundation, and taking proper care of them is important for our overall well-being. A podiatrist, who is a specialized foot and ankle doctor, can provide essential care and expertise for a range of foot-related issues. Firstly, chronic foot pain, especially if it persists for an extended period, is a clear indicator that it is time to consult a podiatrist. They can diagnose the root cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and fungal infections are common problems that podiatrists can address effectively. Foot injuries, such as sprains or fractures, also require professional evaluation from a podiatrist to ensure proper healing. Additionally, it is wise for individuals with diabetes to have regular check-ups with a podiatrist to prevent and manage diabetes-related foot complications. Overall, visiting a podiatrist is essential for maintaining the health and functionality of your feet, ensuring you can stay active and pain-free. If you have pain in your feet for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you visit this type of doctor who can properly diagnose and treat foot pain.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
- Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
- Use innovative methods to treat conditions
- Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
- Correct walking patterns and balance
- Provide individual consultations to patients
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
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.
What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine who treats the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. If you are having any pain, injuries, or abnormalities in these areas, it is best that you seek help from a podiatrist.
Podiatrists complete four years of training in a podiatric medical school. Their training is like that of other physicians, and they may go on to complete a fellowship training after a residency training. Some podiatrists are board certified meaning they have advanced training, clinical experience, and have taken an exam to prove their skills. Certifying boards for podiatry are the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. Podiatrists may work in private practices, hospitals, clinics, or they may even become professors at colleges of podiatric medicine.
While in college, those who want to be podiatrists often take biology, chemistry, and physics classes in preparation for podiatry school. In podiatry school, students study how the bones, nerves, and muscles work together to help you move around. Additionally, they study injuries and how to properly diagnose and treat them. Admittance into podiatric medical school requires the completion of 90 semester hours of undergraduate study with a good grade point average, and acceptable scores on the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
Podiatrists treat many different conditions such as: aching feet, ankle pain, bunions, corns, hammertoes, fungus, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, sprains and more. Common forms of treatment for these conditions are physical therapy, drugs, or surgery. Podiatrists may also recommend corrective shoe inserts, custom-made shoes, plaster casts, and strappings to correct deformities.
Even if you are someone whose feet are in generally good condition, you should still visit a podiatrist to have your feet properly exfoliated and maintained, or to make sure you are looking after your feet properly.
Features of Running Shoes for Marathoners
When it comes to marathon running, a grueling 26.2-mile journey, selecting the ideal pair of running shoes can significantly affect your performance and overall foot health, as well as prevent injury. Here are some essential features to consider when choosing your marathon running shoes. Cushioning plays a vital role in marathon shoes. Select shoes with adequate midsole cushioning to absorb the shock generated by each stride. Arch support for proper foot alignment is essential to prevent overpronation or supination, either of which can lead to discomfort and potential injuries. Breathability is important, as running for extended periods can result in sweaty feet, which may lead to discomfort, infection, and even blisters. The weight of marathon shoes cannot be ignored. The lighter the shoe, the less fatigue your legs will experience over the long distance. Lastly, durability should not be underestimated. Marathon training and racing can put your shoes through significant wear and tear. To ensure your shoes last the distance, select pairs constructed from high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of marathon running. For additional help with selecting the right running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
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.
Definition and Underlying Causes of Gout
Gout is a painful form of arthritis that results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This condition can affect anyone, and it typically targets the big toe joint. A noticeable symptom of gout is intense pain, swelling, and redness in the affected joint, often occurring suddenly and causing discomfort that can last for days or weeks. The primary cause of gout is an overabundance of uric acid in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperuricemia. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods and are also produced naturally by the body. Factors such as genetics, a diet rich in purines, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Treatment of gout typically involves managing pain during flare-ups with anti-inflammatory medications and lifestyle modifications can help to reduce uric acid levels. Long-term strategies often include dietary changes, weight management, and medications to lower uric acid production. By understanding gout's definition, causes, and appropriate treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps to alleviate pain and prevent future attacks. If you suffer from gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. 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 Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Is It Safe to Run During Pregnancy?
Staying active during pregnancy is vital, and running can be a great option for expectant mothers who were regular runners before conception. However, safety is paramount. It is beneficial to consult a medical professional before undertaking this type of exercise. In many cases, you can continue running if you experience good pre-pregnancy health and do not have complications. Secondly, it is helpful to choose proper footwear that supports your changing feet and opt for breathable, loose-fitting attire. Third, run with caution, especially as your balance changes, and run with a buddy. Avoid hazardous trails and prioritize pavement. It may be wise to refrain from running in particularly hot and humid conditions. Most importantly, slow down or stop if you feel pain, exhaustion, or an abnormal heart rate, and always consult a doctor if you experience dizziness, chest pain, contractions, or bleeding. Drink water regularly and monitor urine color. If you have questions about the wisdom of running during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for consultation and guidance.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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.
Pregnancy and Foot Health
Many pregnant women complain about foot pain while they are expecting. Foot pain can primarily be caused by weight gain and hormonal changes taking place in the body. By understanding how pregnancy impacts the health of a woman's feet, a pregnant woman can take action to keep her feet as healthy and comfortable as possible.
Because a woman's weight changes during pregnancy, more pressure is brought to bear on both the legs and the feet. This weight shift can cause two major foot problems: over-pronation, also known as flat feet, as well as edema, which is swelling of the feet. Over-pronation occurs when the arch of the foot flattens, causing the foot to roll inwards when the individual is walking, and can aggravate the plantar fascia tissues located along the bottom of the feet. If these tissues become inflamed, a pregnant woman can experience pain in the heel of the foot as well as severe foot pain while walking or standing. Swelling of the feet, or edema, often occurs in the later stages of pregnancy. It is caused by slow circulation and water retention, and may turn the feet a light purple color.
To keep feet in good health and prevent over-pronation, pregnant women should avoid walking barefoot and be sure they are wearing shoes that offer good arch support. A device known as an orthotic can be added to regular footwear in order to provide additional support for the feet during pregnancy. Any expectant mother whose feet hurt should first check to see if the shoes she is wearing are old, worn out and not offering the proper support necessary for distributing the weight of her body during pregnancy.
To treat edema of the feet, a good start is to wear quality footwear which offers support and good circulation. Keep feet elevated whenever possible by using a foot stool while seated. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water to prevent water retention in the feet. Any swelling that occurs in only one foot should be examined as soon as possible by a doctor.
Good foot health during pregnancy can help expectant mothers avoid foot pain that leads to other health problems. Massaging the feet and doing regular gentle exercise like walking aids foot health by contributing to good circulation. Supportive shoes are also a good investment that will support foot health during pregnancy.
Unraveling the Mystery of Cankles and How to Deal With Them
The ankle, a vital joint in our body, plays a significant role in our movements and stability. However, some individuals may notice that their ankles are large or swollen, raising concerns. In most cases, the size and shape of our ankles are determined by genetics, and having larger ankles is not inherently unhealthy. However, certain health conditions can cause enlarged ankles, warranting attention and further investigation. One such condition is lipedema, a painful disorder where fat accumulates beneath the skin of the legs. Lipedema predominantly affects women, and its symptoms include easy bruising, sensitivity to pressure, and difficulty walking. Genetic factors and hormonal changes trigger this condition, and treatments involve dietary changes, exercise, and specialized therapy. Another condition that can lead to swollen ankles is lymphedema, which involves abnormal swelling due to a compromised lymphatic system. Damaged lymph nodes or cancer treatments can be contributing factors. Managing lymphedema includes gentle exercises, compression techniques, and massages. Furthermore, edema, or generalized swelling, can cause puffy ankles as can heat, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, medications, and pregnancy. For those seeking to reduce ankle swelling, lifestyle changes such as exercises, reducing sodium intake, elevating feet, and staying active can be beneficial. If you are generally concerned about the size of your ankles and they are causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine them and provide you with relief options.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
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.
Swelling of the Feet
There are many reasons why patients experience swelling of the feet. It is rather common and may be a side effect of pregnancy or from sitting and standing for most of the day. Gravity could also play a role in the development of swollen feet. It is known that the weight of blood volume in our bodies is exerted on the veins in the legs and feet. The veins may not work as efficiently during the aging process, and this could make the blood flow backward causing swollen feet. Relief may be found when obese patients lose weight, and it may help to engage in compression therapy by wearing compression socks, stockings, or athletic sleeves. This method can release pressure on the feet and ankles which may help to reduce existing swelling. There are patients who have controlled their swollen feet by implementing healthy lifestyle changes. These can consist of reducing salt intake, incorporating a gentle exercise regime into the daily routine, and drinking plenty of fresh water. Swollen feet may be a temporary condition that affects people who travel via airplane or automobile, so it is beneficial to walk as frequently as possible even though it can be difficult. Swelling of the feet can also be indicative of other health issues so it is important to pay attention to any type of chest pain, mental confusion, dizziness, or fever. If you consistently have swollen feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help determine the cause and how to effectively treat it.
Stretching Your Feet
Debilitating foot pain is a problem for many people. But just as stretching the torso can help alleviate back pain, stretching the feet can also help mend existing foot problems and prevent future ones.
The feet, as the body’s foundation, carry the body’s entire weight and can get easily strained from overexertion. Persistent sharp pain and cramping in the feet are often common concerns. Foot pain and foot problems can be due to any number of causes, and in many cases pain may be eased without medication or doctor visits. It is always a good idea, however, to first rule out any serious medical issues with a physician.
Stretching can help relax the feet and alleviate pain, but is especially important before heavy aerobic exercise. Stretching before such activities can help you avoid experiencing painful cramps or strained foot muscles. Stretches should be performed slowly and deliberately without forceful pulling. The stretch should be held for several seconds before relaxing.
A great way to stretch out and loosen up the foot muscles while sitting is to cross one leg over the other and pull the toes carefully back without overextending. Start by resting the left ankle on the right knee. With the left hand, gently flex the left foot by pulling back on the toes. Do not pull too hard; just hard enough to feel the stretch in the arch of the foot. Then point the toes of the left foot as far as you can. Rotate the motion of pointing with pulling back on the toes. This should relax and stretch the muscles on the bottom and the top of the foot. Doing this stretch ten to twenty times should bring relief. Repeat the whole process for the other foot by resting the right ankle on the left knee.
A stretch that focuses on the often injured Achilles tendon involves standing and facing a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot, keeping it flat against the floor. Move the other leg forward and lean toward the wall. You should feel a stretch through the back of your leg and your Achilles tendon, but do not push yourself too much. Stop when you feel a stretching sensation, and hold for 30 seconds. Ten repetitions may be done for each foot.
Stretching the feet is important for athletes or those performing aerobic exercise, but it can also help anyone with foot pain caused by poor footwear, plantar fasciitis, or long hours standing and walking. Individuals who tend to their feet by regularly stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
Simple Foot Stretches
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.
