Diabetes can greatly impact the way wounds on the feet heal, often causing them to heal more slowly and leaving them at risk of infection. Even small cuts, blisters, or sores on the toes, heels, or ankles may progress into more serious problems when circulation is reduced and blood sugar levels are poorly controlled. Peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, can reduce sensation in the feet, meaning injuries may go unnoticed and untreated for too long. This combination of reduced blood flow and nerve damage makes foot ulcers more likely to develop. If left untreated, they can progress to severe infections that sometimes require surgery or may even result in the risk of limb loss. A podiatrist can examine wounds, provide advanced wound care, and recommend strategies to protect vulnerable areas of the feet. If you have foot wounds related to diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and ongoing treatment.

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 podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, most often between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty shoes. Symptoms may include itching, redness, peeling, or cracking skin, sometimes with a burning sensation. In more persistent cases, the infection can spread to the toenails or other areas of the body. Preventive steps include keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or sprays often provide relief, but stubborn infections may require prescription treatment. Because untreated athlete’s foot can return or spread, consistent care is important. If you are dealing with ongoing irritation or suspect athlete’s foot that is not improving, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and management.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot caused by repetitive stress, often from activities such as running, jumping, or intense physical training. Symptoms may include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight. Risk factors include sudden increases in activity, wearing improper footwear, osteoporosis, and biomechanical imbalances. Without proper care, these fractures can worsen, leading to prolonged pain and mobility issues. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose stress fractures, provide treatment plans including rest, immobilization, and targeted exercises, and recommend preventive measures. If you have the symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Plantar fasciitis is often explained simply as heel pain caused by irritation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. While this is true, there is more to understand. The condition develops when repetitive stress causes small tears in the fascia, leading to inflammation. But not everyone with heel pain has plantar fasciitis, and not every case responds the same way. Factors like foot structure, tight calf muscles, and wearing poor footwear can worsen the strain. Long hours of standing or sudden increases in activity also play a role. Beyond basic stretching and rest, treatment may include custom orthotics, night splints, or other advanced podiatric options. Addressing plantar fasciitis early can shorten recovery time and prevent chronic heel pain. If discomfort in your heel is interfering with your routine, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the nerves between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding the nerve thickens, leading to irritation and discomfort. Causes include wearing tight or high heeled shoes, repetitive stress from activities like running, and structural foot abnormalities such as bunions or hammertoes. Risk factors include high arches, flat feet, and participating in high impact sports. Additionally, symptoms often involve burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot that may worsen with walking or standing. A podiatrist can provide a diagnosis, recommend proper footwear, prescribe orthotics, and offer treatments to reduce pain and restore mobility. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Kohler disease is a rare foot condition that affects the tarsal navicular bone. This small midfoot bone helps connect the ankle to the toes and supports the arch, which becomes compressed and weakened. Kohler disease typically occurs in children between the ages of five and 10. The exact cause is unknown, but possible genetic links and disruptions in blood supply may contribute. Symptoms often include redness of the foot, tenderness along the length of the arch, swelling, and limping due to pain. Although the condition usually resolves with time, early diagnosis is important to relieve discomfort and prevent long-term issues. A podiatrist can provide supportive treatments, recommend protective footwear, and monitor healing. If your child shows signs of Kohler disease or has foot pain of any kind, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist to schedule an appointment for expert care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Ankle sprains and ankle strains are among the most frequent causes of ankle pain, yet they involve different tissues. A sprain affects the ligaments, which are the strong bands of tissue that hold the bones of the ankle together. These ligaments can stretch or tear if the ankle twists too far, such as when stepping off a curb or landing awkwardly during sports. A strain involves the muscles or tendons of the ankle, which can be overstretched or torn from overuse, sudden movements, or repetitive force, such as running long distances or frequent jumping. Both injuries can cause swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking, but sprains typically occur from acute trauma, while strains are more often linked to chronic overuse. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact problem and provide the proper treatment to restore function. If you have incurred an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. 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 office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain that sets in during the evening or overnight can have many triggers. Irritated nerves may create tingling or burning once the feet are still. Circulation changes in a reclined position can lead to throbbing or heaviness. Inflammation from arthritis may stiffen joints during hours of rest, while strain in the plantar fascia can cause lingering soreness from the day’s activity. Muscle cramps, often linked to dehydration or low mineral levels, may jolt you awake. Even blankets pressing on the toes can aggravate tender spots. Because these sensations can stem from multiple causes, finding lasting relief depends on identifying the source. Solutions might include specific exercises, wearing better footwear, or podiatric treatment. If foot pain regularly interferes with rest, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a full evaluation and targeted care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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