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At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we often get questions from our Los Angeles County patients about custom orthotics. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about this very effective, non-invasive type of podiatric treatment.
Q: What conditions can orthotics help treat?
A: Orthotics are footwear inserts that are used to provide support and reduce pain, discomfort, pressure or imbalance, and other symptoms caused by a wide range of foot and ankle deformities, injuries, and diseases as well as biomechanical problems. Some common conditions that can be treated with orthotics include flat feet, heel pain, arthritis, bunions, calluses, corns, big toe pain, and neuropathic ulcerations.
Q: What’s the difference between over-the-counter shoe inserts and custom orthotics?
A: Over-the-counter inserts can provide some arch support and treat minor discomfort and pain. Prescription orthotics, however, are made from a mold of your unique foot and therefore better able to address and correct your specific foot issues. Prescription orthotics are also constructed of more durable materials and can last a long time.
Q: What are some common kinds of prescription orthotics?
A: Orthotics come in many shapes and sizes and are made from a variety of materials depending on individual needs. They may take the form of insoles, arch supports, heel pads, or foot cushions. Generally, there are two classifications of orthotics. Accommodative orthotics offer cushioning and reduce pressure on a vulnerable area of the foot. Functional orthotics are used to treat foot problems caused by foot and ankle motion and alignment.
Q: How are custom orthotics made?
A: The first step is to have our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, conduct a thorough examination of your feet and ankles and evaluate how they are impacting your knees, legs, and lower back. Once the foot doctor has a diagnosis of your podiatric disorder and a complete understanding of the biomechanics of your foot, a mold of your foot will be made from a plaster cast or a specialized computer scan that maps your foot structure and your gait. The podiatrist will then check to make sure the orthotic is fitted properly and monitor your progress.
If you would like to learn more about orthotics and whether or not they can help you, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office for an appointment today.
Published in Custom Orthotics
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that our Los Angeles County patients are within driving distance of many beautiful California beaches. This favorite summertime excursion, however, can end in pain and discomfort for your feet or ankles if you fail to take the proper precautions. Below are some beach-day fun busters and how to prevent them.
Burns—while sunburn is an obvious concern that most people are aware of on a beach day, we find that many patients neglect to apply sunscreen diligently to their feet. It’s essential to use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to apply the sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of your feet. Sitting in a sand chair the soles of your feet are exposed to direct sunlight and reflective rays off the sand. Reapply sunscreen to your feet after swimming or every two hours, whichever comes first.
Walking on hot sand or pavement can also cause the soles of your feet to burn. It may seem like a short trip to get to your beach blanket, but the temperatures of the sand can easily heat up enough to cause third-degree burns to the skin in a very short time. Always cover your feet before stepping out.
Jelly Fish Sting—Did you know that these creatures can still sting you even after they have washed up on the shore and died? Pack a small container of vinegar or baking soda in your beach bag and apply it to a jellyfish sting to relieve pain. Most stings will heal on their own within a few days. If yours appears to be getting worse instead of better, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office for an appointment so that our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, can examine your wound and determine if it has become infected.
Ankle Sprain—some people enjoy adding a little sports activity to their beach day with a game of beach volleyball or frisbee. If you fall into this category, remember to bring sneakers to support your feet in sliding sands to avoid ankle sprains and other injuries.
Puncture Wound—sharp objects can easily be concealed in the sand. Wear shoes for beach walks to avoid cuts. If you do get a cut, clean it immediately and put antibacterial ointment and a bandage on the wound.
We hope you have lots of summer fun! If you have any foot or ankle issues, contact us for evaluation and treatment.
Published in Foot Problems
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At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center some of the problems our Los Angeles County patients bring to us most frequently are caused by repetitive friction and pressure being applied to the feet. Below are two common podiatric conditions of this type and what’s behind them.
Corns—typically corns appear on the tops and sides of the toes or between toes. They are the result of pressure from footwear or toes on toes and are often a secondary condition that develops as the result of a deformity such as a bunion, hammertoe, or claw toe. The deformity makes it difficult to fit into shoes and the constant pressure to a spot that is out of place or enlarged causes the corn to form.
Calluses—calluses are thickened patches of skin that are hard and tough. Although the problem manifests on the surface of your skin, the source is usually much deeper in the foot. Calluses are the result of long-term pressure to a specific spot, and they most often develop on weight-bearing parts of the foot like the heel, sole, ball of the foot, or big toe. Since the issue with a callus is more than skin deep, there may be inflamed nerves or bone deformity involved as well.
Treatment Options
Both corns and calluses can be treated at home by soaking them in warm, soapy water and then using a pumice stone or foot file to gently smooth and reduce them. Apply a rich moisturizer afterward to keep the skin soft. However, the best course of treatment is to consult our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, to determine the root cause of your corn or callus. It’s unlikely that the problem will be resolved completely until the underlying cause of the friction or pressure is identified and treated.
If corns or calluses are causing you pain and making it difficult to find comfortable shoes, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 for an appointment at your earliest convenience.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we’re sure many of our Los Angeles County patients are following the athletes and events connected to the long-awaited Summer Olympics scheduled to take place in Tokyo later this summer. Along with thrilling competition, there’s sure to be some sports injuries such as the one sustained by Canadian shot put thrower, Brittany Crew. Crew was competing in Arizona at the Tucson Elite Classic in May when she suffered a freak accident that resulted in a Grade 2 sprain to her right ankle. When her left foot hit the toe board it slid, unexpectedly shifting all the force to the right ankle. Crew remembers hearing a pop and then her ankle went numb.
Treating Ankle Sprains
Fortunately, Crew is well on the road to recovery, and it looks like she should be in top form to compete in the Olympics. She has, however, decided to sit out the Olympic Trials in order to give her ankle additional time to heal. This wise move exemplifies one of the most important factors in recovering from an ankle injury: not rushing the rehabilitation. Unfortunately, many patients cut physical therapy short once their ankle stops hurting and this leads to the number one cause of repeated ankle sprains which is not recovering fully from an initial sprain. In addition to overstretched ligaments, the muscles that surround and support the ankle need to get stronger and this takes additional time. Other steps to achieving a full recovery include:
- Get medical treatment as soon as possible—ankle sprains require professional assessment. The severity of the sprain may not be obvious to the patient. Sometimes a sprain injury has also caused a fracture. Continuing to walk or play on a sprained ankle can lead to a worse injury. Contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office for an appointment as soon as possible after an ankle-twisting injury so that our podiatrists, Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, can evaluate your injury and determine the best course of treatment.
- Use RICE—this self-treatment regimen is the best way to control pain and prevent further damage while you await your appointment. It stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
- Follow the podiatrist’s instructions—you may need to take a break from a favorite sport to allow time to heal, use an ankle brace, or complete other treatment protocols to get back to full and normal use of your ankle but—take it from an Olympic athlete—it’s worth it!
Published in Sports Injuries
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At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that pain at the back of your heel can be quite debilitating. What starts as an annoying ache can quickly turn into excruciating pain that makes walking difficult. For our Los Angeles County patients that may be experiencing these uncomfortable symptoms, here are three possible causes.
Haglund’s Deformity—this is a bony enlargement that forms at the back of your heel. This condition may be the result of an inherited structural issue like a high arch or a tight Achilles tendon. It can also be caused by wearing shoes with stiff backs that rub on the heel—hence this deformity’s other name: pump bump.
Bursitis—small sacs that are filled with fluid—known as bursas—are found throughout the body near joints and bones. They serve as protection from friction and provide a little extra lubrication. When a bursa becomes irritated due to repetitive motion or pressure it can become painfully inflamed. Haglund’s deformity is one cause of bursitis but it may also be the result of repetitive action from exercise or another medical condition such as gout, diabetes or arthritis.
Achilles Tendonitis—this long tendon that runs down the back of your lower leg connects your calf muscle to the heel bone. It can be aggravated or injured from overuse such as someone whose job involves climbing a ladder. Athletes and “weekend warriors” who suddenly increase the intensity of their workout routine may also suffer from Achilles issues.
The only way to find out for sure what’s causing your back of heel pain is to let our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, examine your foot and conduct the necessary tests to get to the bottom of the problem. You can contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office for an appointment. To learn more about foot health and conditions we treat check out our video library.
Published in Foot Conditions
Each June we recognize Men’s Health Month and at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we think it’s a great opportunity to share with our Los Angeles County patients some tips for improving foot health for men.
One of the biggest differences in the way men and women approach health care, in general, is that women tend to be more proactive in taking care of health issues. Studies show that men are more likely to put off seeing a doctor until a problem is really bad. When it comes to your feet (and the rest of your body), detecting disorders in their earliest stages leads to quicker and more successful outcomes.
Here are some suggestions for keeping men’s feet healthier:
- Commit to basic foot care. No, it doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be as simple as washing your feet daily with soap and water and always starting the day with clean socks and a dusting of foot powder to help keep feet dry. This will reduce the risk of fungal infections.
- Give your feet the once over weekly. Looking at your feet can help you spot changes that may indicate a developing problem. Did you know that your feet can help detect health concerns like high blood pressure and diabetes? Swelling, hair loss on your toes or feet, and discoloration of the skin are a few of the indicators that something bigger may be going on in your body. If you see anything unusual, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office promptly for an appointment so that our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, can examine your feet and determine if there’s an issue.
- Buy good shoes. One of the biggest ways to keep your feet healthy is to wear good-quality shoes that fit properly. Get rid of shoes with worn-down soles, stretched-out heels, holes, or other signs of wear. Avoid shoes that are too tight in the toe box to help prevent ingrown toenails. Always wear athletic shoes designed for the sport or fitness activity you are doing.
- Protect feet on the job. If you are a construction worker or deal with harmful chemicals or toxic materials always wear protective footwear.
- Live a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep will all benefit your feet as well as the rest of your body.
If you have specific questions about a foot issue, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Published in Foot Care
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know many of our Los Angeles County patients can’t wait to take a vacation. After a year plus of Covid restrictions, you’ve got places to go and people to see! Our goal is to make sure a painful foot problem doesn’t slow you down. Below are four potential pitfalls you’ll want to avoid on your summer vacation.
- Not Wearing Socks with Sandals—Yes, you read that right. While normally wearing socks with sandals would be a fashion “faux pas,” if your trip starts with an airplane flight it’s highly encouraged. Most security checks require you to remove your shoes. Every person who walks with bare feet through the scanner machine has the potential to leave behind bacteria or fungi that can result in athlete’s foot, fungal toenails or another infection which are passed on by direct contact for the people who follow them.
- Getting New Shoes for Vacation—It’s great to find the perfect pair of shoes to go with your new shorts and sundresses, but packing them before wearing them can be a big mistake. Even though you should always try on both shoes when purchasing and spend some time in the store walking around, new shoes can still surprise you with blisters or rubbing in places you didn’t expect. Try them out at different times (your feet are largest and most swollen at the end of the day) for a day or two before you go to make sure they are comfortable and pain-free.
- Being a Bare-Foot Beach Bum—With the sun beating down on it, the sand at the beach can heat up to over 100 degrees F. Even a few steps from the parking area to your beach blanket can result in dangerous blistering burns to the soles of your feet. If you like to take walks on the beach, a pair of water shoes can also help you avoid sharp objects that can cause puncture wounds and other hazards like jellyfish that have washed up on the shore.
- Forgetting to Pack Foot Care Essentials—Even if you’re only traveling with a carry-on bag you should have room for a few small items that can make a big difference in foot comfort while on vacation. If our podiatrists, Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, have prescribed a custom orthotic, don’t leave it home! It’s also a good idea to bring moleskin to prevent painful blisters, foot powder, nail clippers, and an emery board.
We hope you and your family have a great vacation this summer. If you find a foot or ankle is hurting you when you return, or you notice other unusual symptoms in your feet, be sure to contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 office promptly for an appointment.
Published in Summer Foot Health
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that many of our Los Angeles County patients welcome the summer season and the shoe wardrobe that accompanies it. While it’s always fun to wear fashionable footwear that suits the season our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, always have the health and safety of your feet as a top priority. Below are some do’s and don’ts to consider when making summer shoe choices:
Do: contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 to schedule an appointment with our podiatrists if you have a chronic foot condition and require specific shoe style recommendations.
Do: make sure all your summer shoes fit properly. Discard shoes that hurt your feet whenever you wear them. Get your feet professionally measured when buying new summer shoes.
Do: use flip flops around the town pool, at the beach and other public places where there are lots of bare feet. This will help prevent common fungal infections like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. Don’t use these shoes as your daily summer footwear choice, however, unless you buy upgraded versions that feature arch support and more structure to prevent injuries.
Don’t: forget to apply sunscreen to your feet when wearing sandals and other open styles that expose the skin on your feet.
Do: consider wedge-style heels over spikes for greater stability and reduced risk of ankle sprains.
Do: alternate the heel heights on the shoes you wear to prevent repetitive strain on your Achilles tendon and calf muscles. Avoid heels that are over two inches.
Don’t: wear flats for heavy walking days. While they may feel comfortable initially, the lack of an arch will ultimately lead to heel pain and discomfort.
Don’t: wear flip-flops for beach volleyball or sandals for hiking. Always choose the right shoe for the activity you are doing.
Do: wear socks with your sneakers to prevent blisters and absorb sweat. Change your socks as soon as you notice they feel damp. Fungal infections thrive in moist, dark places.
Do: keep moleskin with you to apply to any spot on your foot that feels like it might be forming a blister.
Published in Summer Foot Health
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At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that our Los Angeles County patients enjoy the sun nearly year-round, but May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and a good time to emphasize the importance of protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Research shows that currently one in five people will develop some form of skin cancer by the age of 70. In fact, there are more cases of skin cancer diagnosed each year than all other cancers combined. But skin cancer is also highly treatable and has a very high rate of survival when detected early. Below are steps you can take to lower your risk for this potentially deadly disease.
Be on the Lookout—one big advantage of skin cancer over other carcinomas is that you can see it. Commit to inspecting the skin on your feet and the rest of your body monthly. The Skin Cancer Foundation suggests that you lookout for:
- New—blemishes, freckles or moles that have appeared that weren’t present before
- Changing—growing larger, losing their borders, becoming mottled or containing new colors could all signal a potential cancer
- Unusual—any mark on your skin that bleeds, crusts over or is itchy or sore for more than three weeks
When it comes to your feet, be sure to look at the tops and the soles of your feet and between each toe. Look for spots on your nails or in the skin under the nail as well. If you see anything you’re concerned about, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 to schedule an appointment with our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, promptly.
Take Cover—seek shade during the hottest hours of 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. If you spend a large amount of time in the sun or are extra fair, freckled or have other issues that increase your risk for skin cancer consider shirts, hats and other clothing made with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor).
Be Generous with the Sunscreen—many patients often skip their feet when applying sunscreen but it’s just as essential there as any exposed skin. And not just when you are at the beach or pool. If you’re wearing open sandals for a day of shopping or running errands be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher about 30 minutes before going out. If you’re playing sports or swimming, choose a water-resistant variety and reapply after coming out of the water or every two hours.
Say No to Tanning Beds—these increase your risk for all types of skin cancer including dangerous melanomas by up to 75%. Even one time can increase your risk. Don’t let teens use tanning beds ever.
You can decrease your risk of skin cancer. If you have any questions about this disease and your feet, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Published in Skin Cancer
Did you know that the average person walks between 2.5 and 5 miles a day? At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that means our Los Angeles County senior patients have likely put quite a few miles on their feet. In honor of Older Americans Month 2021, we’d like to offer some tips for protecting podiatric health as you age.
- Listen to your feet. Foot pain, shoes that don’t seem to fit properly anymore, and fatigue in your legs or feet are all ways that your feet communicate that something isn’t right. Don’t put off seeking an evaluation of these symptoms. Contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 to schedule an appointment with our podiatrists, Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas.
- Keep feet clean and dry. Wash daily with soap and water and dry thoroughly (paying particular attention to the spaces between your toes). If you tend to sweat excessively, keep an extra pair of socks with you and change when you notice your feet feel damp. This will go a long way in preventing fungal infections like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus.
- Check your feet daily. Look over your entire foot (or ask someone to do it for you) for any unusual changes. Toenail or skin discoloration, bumps, bruises and swelling may all indicate a developing foot or even systemic problem. Diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and arthritis often first manifest in the feet.
- Choose shoes wisely. Your footwear is one of the biggest predictors of podiatric health. Look for styles that have good arch support and heel and insole cushioning. Treads should be non-slip but not have rubber over the toes which can lead to tripping. Ask the podiatrist for recommendations of shoe styles if you have a deformity such as a bunion or hammertoe. Lastly, get your feet professionally measured to ensure a proper fit and always try on both shoes before purchasing.
- Reduce fall risk. Falls are the number one cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries in seniors. Safeguard your home by installing additional stair rails and lighting. Remove throw rugs, plant stands, electrical cords that are across walking areas, and other clutter to lower your chances of falling.
Your podiatrist is your partner in making sure your feet continue to be healthy and enable you to keep on living the active life you love. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Published in Senior Foot Care
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At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we want our Los Angeles County patients to understand the importance of strong bones for your feet and ankles. There are 26 bones in each of your feet and these bones have the important job of supporting and carrying the rest of your body. May is National Osteoporosis Month and a good opportunity for us to share some information on ways you can improve bone strength.
Partner with Your Podiatrist— Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, will help you assess your risk for osteoporosis. The foot doctor will want to know if you have a family history of osteoporosis or have had any fractures in the past. She will also ask questions about your lifestyle to help get a more complete picture of your risk for this disease. Together, you can formulate a plan to help prevent osteoporosis. It may include some or all of the following areas.
Ensure Enough Calcium and Vitamin D in Your Diet—These are the critical nutrient building blocks for strong bones. The best-known source of calcium is dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese. But you can also get a fair amount of calcium from leafy greens, canned sardines and salmon and certain other foods. There are also supplements as well as cereals, juices, and breads that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
Exercise Regularly—It’s important to have both weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise as part of your fitness routine. Consider adding some exercise designed to increase balance too as this will help prevent falls which can result in fractures. If your exercise regimen has become stale, consider trying a new activity like dancing, tennis, or hiking. Join a gym, take a class or team up with a buddy and commit to a weekly fitness plan.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices—Several habits impact bone strength that you may not immediately identify. Smoking, excessive use of alcohol, not eating enough fruits and vegetables and being overweight can all contribute to bone weakness.
If you have concerns about the health of your bones and your feet, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 today.
Published in Osteoporosis
A common problem that we at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center treat in our Los Angeles County patients is fungal infections. Conditions such as athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are very uncomfortable and can easily spread to other parts of the body as well as other people. Most fungal infections are spread by direct contact. That means there are several precautions you can take to greatly reduce your risk. Below are seven tips to help you avoid fungal infections.
- Keep your feet covered in public places. Gyms, community pools, nail salons, and seaside restrooms and changing areas all see a heavy amount of barefoot traffic. Wearing flip flops or shower shoes will prevent your feet from coming in contact with surfaces where the fungi have been deposited.
- Wash your feet daily and dry completely. This simple act will go a long way to keeping fungal and other infections away. Take extra care to dry between your toes as this is where athlete’s foot most often starts.
- Make sure socks stay dry. Fungi love dark, moist places—that’s why the inside of your socks and shoes are the perfect breeding ground. If your feet tend to perspire profusely, keep an extra pair of socks with you and change as soon as you notice your feet feel damp.
- Use foot powder. A dusting of an anti-fungal or talcum powder will aid in keeping feet dry throughout the day.
- Don’t share items that touch another person’s feet. Socks, shoes, nail files, clippers, and even towels can be a vehicle to pass on a fungal infection.
- Choose shoes made of breathable materials. This will allow for air circulation around your feet and reduce the amount of moisture trapped in your shoes.
- Alternate your shoes. It’s helpful to allow shoes to air out for a day or two between wearings.
If you are experiencing red, itchy, flaky skin on your feet or nails that are discolored, thickened, and crumbly it’s important that you schedule an appointment at our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800. Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, will examine your feet and prescribe the correct treatment if you have a fungal infection.
Published in Fungal Infection
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that our Los Angeles County patients have suffered through the pandemic shutdowns. One of the most affected are our young patients. As restrictions ease, children are overjoyed to be able to get back to sports, but parents need to be vigilant about potential foot problems. After an especially long period of inactivity, young feet are more likely to experience foot pain and are vulnerable to some common podiatric disorders. Here’s how parents can help:
Update Sports Shoe
The single biggest factor in podiatric health, even in young children, is shoe choice. With fast-growing feet, chances are your child will need new athletic shoes for the sport they plan to participate in. Shop for shoes that are designed specifically to accommodate their chosen sport. Basketball sneakers, for example, offer extra ankle support while running shoes have more cushioning to absorb the stress of repetitive pounding. Fit is just as important as style. Be sure to:
- Have both of your children’s feet professionally measured
- Shop for shoes at the end of the day after children have been active—that’s when their feet will be at their largest
- Bring or have your child wear the socks he or she will use with their athletic shoes to ensure a more accurate fit
- Try on both shoes and have your child walk around the store long enough to determine they are comfortable
Look for Signs of Foot Pain
In many instances, young children are not able to articulate foot pain. However, parents may notice unusual behaviors that can signal hurting feet. These include:
- Lack of interest in sports or fitness activities they previously enjoyed
- Lagging behind peers in casual backyard play
- Complaints that feet feel “tired”
- Limping, walking on tip toe or other strange gaits
If your child exhibits any of the above symptoms or complains of foot pain, make an appointment at our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800. Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, will examine your child’s feet and get to the source of foot pain so that they can be properly treated and back in the game in no time.
Published in Sports Injuries
Feet are often taken for granted and not given much attention, but in April we celebrate National Foot Health Awareness Month. At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we want to take this opportunity to share with our Los Angeles county patients some simple steps you can take to protect the health of your feet and avoid many common podiatric disorders.
- Inspect your feet regularly. When is the last time you really looked at your feet? Changes in skin color or the condition of your toenails, unexplained bruising, lumps, and cuts that don’t heal are all potential signs of a foot problem. Many deformities like bunions and hammertoes also occur gradually. The majority of podiatric disorders can be more easily and better treated in their early stages. If you spot anything concerning, contact our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 and make an appointment with our podiatrists, Victoria M. Foley and Dr. Constance Ornelas, so that they can examine your feet and determine if there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
- Make smart shoe choices. One of the most important determining factors for the health of your feet is what you put on them. Proper fit is essential. Don’t wear shoes that feel tight or squeeze your toes together. Look for styles with roomy toe boxes, good arch support, and a firm fit around the heel. Avoid spending too much time in heels over two inches high.
- Practice good hygiene. Wash feet daily. Dust with anti-fungal or talcum powder if your feet tend to sweat excessively and moisturize at night with a good moisturizer.
- Engage in a healthy lifestyle. We sometimes forget that what we do with the rest of our body most definitely impacts the health of our feet. High cholesterol, for example, can lead to poor circulation which diminishes the ability of oxygen and nutrients needed for healing to reach your feet in a timely manner. Eating a nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and exercising regularly will all benefit your feet as well.
If you have questions about how to best take care of your feet and ankles, contact us today.
Published in Foot Care Tips
