Items filtered by date: November 2024

Swollen feet and ankles can result from a number of underlying causes. Often, the swelling arises when fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower extremities, a condition called peripheral edema. Other triggers include injuries like sprains or fractures, which can lead to localized swelling in one foot or ankle. Kidney issues can impair the body's ability to eliminate excess fluid, which may result in swelling of the feet. Similarly, heart problems often lead to poor circulation, with fluid pooling in the feet and ankles, especially later in the day. Venous insufficiency, where veins struggle to return blood from the legs to the heart, can also lead to this problem. Infections, such as cellulitis, may cause sudden swelling, warmth, and redness. A podiatrist can identify the cause of swelling and provide appropriate treatment options, including compression therapy, guidance on managing chronic conditions, and preventive measures for injury-related swelling. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor 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 Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe fractures can occur for various reasons, with some common causes being crushing injuries and joint hyperextension. A crushing injury often happens when a heavy object falls onto the foot, resulting in significant trauma. Joint hyperextension, where the toe is forced beyond its normal range of motion, can also result in fractures. Stress fractures are another concern, typically caused by repetitive impact or overuse, often seen in athletes or those engaged in high-intensity activities. Symptoms of a toe fracture include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in moving the affected toe. In some cases, the toe may appear to be misaligned or deformed. If you have symptoms of a broken toe, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment options.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Yoga can be a gentle and effective way to relieve the discomfort of plantar fasciitis. One beneficial pose is the upward salute, which stretches the entire body while lengthening the spine and opening the shoulders. The chair pose strengthens the legs and helps build stability, providing support to the feet. Incorporating the high lunge not only stretches the hip flexors but also engages the lower body, promoting flexibility in the feet and calves. Lastly, downward dog is excellent for stretching the calves and hamstrings while improving overall foot strength. Each of these poses encourages better alignment and flexibility, which can alleviate tension in the plantar fascia. Regular practice can enhance circulation and reduce inflammation, contributing to improved comfort and mobility for those affected by this condition. If you are suffering with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss relief strategies, which may include effective yoga stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor 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 Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Allowing babies to go barefoot offers numerous benefits that contribute to their overall development. When infants walk without shoes, they enhance their awareness of their surroundings, as their feet can feel different textures and temperatures. This sensory experience plays a vital role in brain development and spatial awareness. Furthermore, being barefoot encourages natural foot development, allowing the arches to form properly and strengthening the muscles and ligaments in the feet. As babies navigate different surfaces, they improve their coordination and agility, essential skills for later stages of physical activity. This freedom also fosters balance, helping them gain confidence as they explore their environment. Embracing the barefoot experience not only supports healthy foot growth but also nurtures a sense of exploration and movement that can positively influence their development. If your baby has any type of foot problem, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional benefits of babies walking barefoot.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Steven Black, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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