Itchy feet can come from a variety of causes. It can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive to one’s life, especially if it is chronic. Itchiness, or pruritis, can be cutaneous, systemic, neuropathic, psychogenic, or a combination of these factors. Cutaneous itchiness means the itch results from a problem on the surface of the skin. Systemic itchiness comes from something going on throughout the body. Neuropathic itching is related to the nerves or nervous system. And psychogenic itchiness arises from a psychological issue. One possible reason for itchy feet is diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes involves insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels, which can have serious health consequences. Neuropathy, often associated with diabetes, can cause tingling, itchiness, and numbness in the feet. Poor circulation from diabetes can also cause itchiness. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your medical team for regular foot examinations and diagnosis of anything abnormal going on with your feet.

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 our foot specialists from California. 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 office located in Upland, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Practicing proper foot care is imperative for soccer players as their feet are their primary tools for playing the game. The feet are subject to wear and tear and must be tended to if effectiveness and efficiency are sought. Parents who have kids who play soccer should make sure to check their children’s feet regularly and encourage their children to let them know if they see or feel something amiss with their feet. Routine foot care includes washing the drying the feet daily, making sure there is no excess moisture left between the toes. Feet should be washed as soon as possible after exercise, and if this is to be done in public showers or locker rooms, shower shoes should be worn to prevent fungal infections. Shoes and cleats should fit properly. Padding can be added to support the heels. Toenails should be trimmed regularly and stretching and strengthening exercises should be done to keep the feet and ankles strong and flexible. Performing such care will go a long way in preventing scrapes, athlete’s foot, blisters, and other foot and ankle-related soccer injuries. If your child has sustained a foot or ankle injury from playing soccer, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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 our foot specialists from California. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Upland, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flip-flops may be cute, easy, and inexpensive additions to a summer wardrobe, but they can cause problems for your feet and body. This type of footwear usually does not cushion the feet from impact when walking, particularly on harder surfaces like asphalt, and can cause foot and leg pain. Because they leave the feet exposed, one is susceptible to bites, infections, and injuries when wearing them. Also, since these shoes have a flat form, wearing them can lead to gait problems. They do not give stability to the feet or stay on the feet well and can result in muscle pain throughout the body. If you have additional questions about the effects of wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for an expert opinion.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact our foot specialists from California. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Dry skin on the rim of the heels can cause cracked heels to develop. It can happen from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day and can be a result of the weight the feet endure. People who are overweight may have cracked heels, or it may come from wearing shoes that have an open back. Research has shown that vitamin deficiencies such as C, B-3, and E may contribute to getting cracked heels. Also, people who have medical conditions like athlete’s foot and eczema may be prone to getting cracked heels. Severely cracked heels are known as fissures and can become painful and infected. Relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer on them. Wearing the proper shoes may help to prevent cracked heels, such as heels with a back or strap. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment sooner rather than later with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact our foot specialists from California. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Our feet are usually the most overused, underappreciated parts of our bodies. In fact, it might be accurate to say we seldom think about our feet unless they hurt us. Because of this, most of us neglect daily foot care that could help prevent various foot problems and assist us in our mobility. Some tips to keep our feet in their best shape include washing, drying, and moisturizing them daily, wearing shoes that fit well and are comfortable, and trimming toenails properly and regularly. Some people do not know that the safest way to trim toenails is straight across with a nail clipper and to use a nail file to smooth rough edges. Soaking and massaging the feet every now and then is a treat that will soothe your whole being. If you would like more tips on instituting a good foot care routine, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist who is an expert in everything related to the feet and ankles.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact our foot specialists from California. 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 office located in Upland, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A common symptom among pregnant women is swollen feet. It may become worse during the warmer months, and can worsen as the pregnancy progresses. This may be a result of changes in the blood chemistry, causing the fluid to shift into the tissues. The blood becomes thicker to accommodate the growing fetus, pooling in the feet, and can cause the feet and ankles to swell. The medical term for swelling is edema, and it may affect one foot more than the other. There are effective methods that can be implemented that can help to prevent swelling. Reducing sodium intake, frequently elevating the feet, and drinking plenty of water can help to manage swollen feet. Research has shown that many women notice swelling has reduced in their feet approximately 24 hours after delivery, and will continue to improve. If you would like additional relief methods from swollen feet and ankles during pregnancy, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

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 our foot specialists from California. 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 Upland, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Nerves are essentially cells that play a significant role in facilitating the transmission of feeling and sensory information. While nerves are located throughout the human body, nerves are also located throughout the feet. When nerves are injured in the feet, an individual may develop some injury related to nerve damage. For example, an individual might develop a case of Baxter’s neuropathy, and this occurs when the inferior calcaneal nerve is ultimately compressed. Additionally, there are other kinds of nerve injuries in the feet, such as Morton’s neuroma. This particular kind of foot injury occurs when there is a significant amount of tissue that compresses or aggravates the nerves around the toe area. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is also another kind of nerve injury in the feet. If you believe that you might be living with some kind of nerve damage or injury in the feet, contact a podiatrist today for treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact our foot specialists from California. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Bunions are essentially defined as bumps that can form on the side of the big toe or pinky toe that are bony in texture. Many patients with bunions are often interested in learning more about why they have developed this condition and what contributed to it. The answer may surprise many patients. Interestingly, heredity and genetics is one of the major contributing factors in bunions. Specifically, the shape of your foot that you inherit from your parents is a major factor that can determine your susceptibility to bunions. Unfortunately, individuals do not have control over their genetic disposition to bunions. It is estimated that more than 80 percent of individuals living with bunions have a history in their family tree of bunions. Although this may lead one to believe that they can do nothing to prevent the development of bunions, this is not technically true. There are a number of steps that an individual can take to mitigate their risk of developing bunions, such as wearing footwear that fits properly. Contact a podiatrist today for more information. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact our foot specialists of California. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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