Items filtered by date: January 2023

Although many people may have a casual interest in practicing daily foot care, the world of podiatry is expansive and many important pieces of information can help one improve their foot care routine. Importantly, the consumption of alcohol and alcoholic beverages can have a huge impact on one’s everyday foot care. This is because consuming alcohol is linked with several detrimental afflictions on the foot. Namely, drinking alcohol can lead to swelling of the feet, which is also known as edema. The reason for this is that alcohol negatively impacts how a person’s body processes electrolytes. As a result, more water may be present in the body, and swelling of the feet may occur. Additionally, consuming alcohol is linked with gout. Gout is a pesky kind of arthritis that primarily impacts the big toe on the feet. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, consider the impact that the consumption is having on the feet and their health. For more information on alcohol-related foot ailments, please contact a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle replacement surgery is a last resort to eliminating severe pain, stiffness, and inflammation caused by arthritis. This procedure is usually considered only after less-invasive measures, such as arthroscopic debridement and ankle fusion, have been dismissed. There are many risks involved with ankle replacement surgery, including infection, nerve damage, and blood clots. Additionally, there is a chance of misalignment of the bones involved, as well as risks related to age and other underlying medical conditions. The procedure replaces parts of the affected bones with plastic or metal pieces. It is usually recommended only for someone who can barely move their ankle. Recovery from this surgery may include wearing a cast or protective boot and taking prescription pain medication. The ability to bear weight on the ankle will improve very slowly, and recovery may take four months or longer. The new ankle joint is expected to last for about 10 years. For more information on ankle replacement surgery or to see if you qualify, please consult a podiatrist. 

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 Omega Podiatry. 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
• 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 offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Practicing exceptional foot care is crucial for all people, especially for diabetic patients. This consists of examining the soles of the feet daily for existing cuts and scrapes, and using a mirror can be helpful in accomplishing this. Wearing shoes that fit correctly, properly trimming the toenails, and maintaining proper circulation are important methods to implement for optimum foot health. Diabetes is a result of elevated blood sugar levels and may be the result of foods that are eaten. Having healthy eating habits may be instrumental in lowering these levels and controlling diabetes. Two medical conditions that may affect diabetic patients are referred to as loss of protective sensation (LOPS) and peripheral artery disease (PAD). The former occurs when there is a lack of feeling in the feet, and the patient may be unable to feel pressure or pain. The latter condition decreases blood flow to the feet, possibly causing sores and cuts to heal slower. Diabetic patients are strongly suggested to be under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective management tips for controlling diabetes. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has shown that an ankle sprain is one of the most common types of sports injuries. It can happen as a result of suddenly jolting or twisting the ankle, possibly causing it to overstretch. Many patients experience immediate pain, swelling, or bruising, from spraining an ankle. Elevating the foot may help to alleviate some of these symptoms. It is often difficult to walk, and prompt medical attention is often sought for relief. Recurring ankle sprains may happen from getting insufficient treatment from a previous sprain, which may produce loose and scarred ligaments. When a reasonable amount of time has gone by, the foot can become stronger when ankle stretches and exercises are performed. These may be connected to the type of sporting activity that has been previously pursued, which may accelerate the healing process. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment technique that is best for you.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet and ankles are commonly affected during falls. Frequent foot injuries caused by falls can include strains, sprained ankles, fractured bones, or even torn Achilles tendons. Because pressure is still applied to the foot, even when casted, it is challenging to fully immobilize the foot and ankle, making the healing process somewhat slow. Such injuries can alter one’s enjoyment and quality of life, and lead to chronic pain. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury in a fall, contact a podiatrist who can correctly diagnose the problem and get you on the road to recovery as quickly as possible.

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 Omega Podiatry. 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 offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.