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At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we strive to make your podiatric visits as non-scary as possible. Certain foot problems, however, have names that sound quite frightening, but in reality, are fairly common and easily treated. Below are three that might cause you to be alarmed:
Subungual hematomas—not only does this condition sound gruesome, its appearance may give you a scare as well. Its telltale sign is a black toenail. No plague here, however. The black color of the nail is caused by blood pooling under the nail—most often the result of an injury to the toe, like a bad stubbing or a heavy object falling on your foot. Black toenails are also a frequent occurrence among patients who are runners. The repetitive pounding of the toes up against the front of the shoe can result in black nails. In most cases, subungual hematomas will clear up on their own. You might want to get your feet measured to make sure you are wearing shoes that are big enough for your feet.
Onychomycosis—this ten-dollar term is another way of saying you have toenail fungus. Although you may feel that your toe looks like it belongs in a horror movie—discolored, edges that are crumbling and breaking off and odd spots on the nail—fungal nails are often not painful at all. In fact, that’s partly why patients don’t bother getting them evaluated. Fungal infections can spread to other toes and other parts of the body, however, so it’s best to have our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas evaluate a funky looking nail and prescribe the best treatment.
Tenia pedis—you probably know this condition better by its more common name, athlete’s foot. This common foot fungus can be unbearably itchy and cause a red rash, flaky skin and even oozing blisters if left untreated. You get athlete’s foot by coming in direct contact with the fungi and most cases can be prevented by keeping your feet covered in public places and not sharing socks, shoes, or other items that touch another person’s feet.
No matter how bizarre your podiatric symptoms may be, the best course of action is to contact our Long Beach office for an appointment as soon as possible by calling: (562) 420-9800.
If you follow football you may have heard that Caroline Panthers quarterback, Cam Newton, was put on the disabled list for a Lisfranc injury. While less common than other sports injuries, we at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center think it’s important to make information about this problem available, especially in the fall since football players are in a high-risk category.
FACT: The Lisfranc joint is located where the long bones of your toes (metatarsals) connect with the bones of the arch of your foot (tarsals). A ligament or tough band of tissue that joins two of these bones is called the Lisfranc ligament.
FACT: Lisfranc injuries can occur in different ways, some of which may occur simultaneously. These include:
FACT: These types of injuries can happen as the result of trauma, such as a car accident or a heavy object falling on the midfoot, playing football or another contact sport, running or horseback riding. Sometimes, however, it can be caused by something as simple as missing a step on the stairs.
FACT: Signs that you may have injured your Lisfranc joint or ligament include:
FACT: If you notice these types of symptoms, don’t take a “wait and see” approach. Contact our Long Beach office in Douglas Park CA immediately by calling, (562) 420-9800. Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas will want to examine your foot and will also order x-rays or other imaging studies to determine if the Lisfranc has been injured. In some cases, emergency surgery may be necessary. Otherwise, conservative treatments such as immobilizing the foot with a cast, oral medications and physical therapy can be prescribed.
Are you pregnant? Congratulations! At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we know how excited you must be. We also want to do our part to help ensure that your pregnancy proceeds as comfortably as possible. Hormonal changes and weight gain that occur naturally during pregnancy can play havoc on the health of your feet. Below are some common problems pregnant women encounter and what to do about them.
Arch and Heel Pain—these are perhaps the most common complaints pregnant women have about their feet. As your pregnancy progresses, the added weight can have the effect of flattening your arch, resulting in symptoms similar to those of patients with flat feet. Pain in the arch and heel pain due to the strain put on the plantar fascia (the long band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot) are not uncommon. To combat this type of discomfort, look for shoes with extra arch support. In some cases, our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas will fit you with a custom orthotic device to wear in your shoes.
Ingrown toenails—hormones released by your body toward the end of your pregnancy to help relax ligaments to make birth easier can affect your feet by causing them to spread. Your shoes may start to feel too tight. When toes are pressed up against each other for long periods of time, ingrown toenails can develop. It may be necessary to buy shoes that are a larger size or wider width for the last trimester.
Swelling—excess fluid in your body, and the position of the baby may result in swollen feet and ankles. This can lead to discomfort and pain. The best way to reduce swelling is by putting your feet up frequently. Stretching, not crossing your legs when sitting and drinking lots of water will help too.
If your feet are giving you trouble during your pregnancy, make an appointment at our Long Beach office in Douglas Park CA by calling: (562) 420-9800. Our podiatrists will help get to the source of your discomfort and prescribe a safe and effective treatment.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we often find that more women are making appointments at our Long Beach office in Douglas Park, CA the fall with complaints about their bunions and hammertoes. These are both deformities of the toes that can seem more painful than ever when patients switch from the open shoe styles of summer to closed toe shoes in the fall.
A bunion occurs when the big toe joint begins to move out of place and the big toe drifts toward the second toe. As the dislocation of the joint progresses, the telltale bump forms on the side of the toe. In the case of hammertoe, the second, third, or fourth toe begins to bend at the middle joint creating the hammer-like position of the toe and hence the name. Although these two conditions are different in appearance, they are both toe deformities and have several things in common.
Bunions and hammertoes are both biomechanical problems that can be caused by an inherited tendency for the deformity, or a number of other risk factors, such as arthritis or a previous injury. Both conditions, however, can be made worse by wearing shoes that are too tight and narrow in the toe box. High-heeled shoes and boots can also exacerbate these conditions because they force feet forward and exert extra pressure on the toes.
If you are experiencing increased discomfort from either a hammertoe or a bunion, make an appointment with our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas, so they can evaluate your toes and see how far the condition has progressed. The foot doctor will determine if surgery is needed to correct the problem or if you can get by at this point with conservative measures. These may include:
Don’t wait. If you are in pain, contact us today and let us help you get relief.
Hiking is a great way to stay in shape, spend time with family and friends, and appreciate the beauty of nature. At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we want our patients to keep their feet safe while enjoying this activity. Below are some recommendations before you hit the trail.
Shoe Sense—it all starts with the right hiking shoes or boots. The terrain on trails can be steep, uneven, and unstable. It’s essential that you have the proper foot gear. Get professionally fitted and buy quality-hiking shoes that protect your feet from moisture, provide good support and shock absorption, and have a tread to help prevent slips and slides. If you have chronic foot problem such as weak ankles or heel spurs, see our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas get recommendations for shoe styles and other modifications that will best accommodate your condition.
Proper Planning—if you are planning to hike on a trail you’ve never been on, study a map to determine the length of the trail, whether it’s “in and out” or a circle, the elevation, and how the trail is maintained. Take into consideration your current physical condition and don’t overdo it. Warm-up and stretch before starting a hike to avoid injuries like Achilles tendonitis.
Knapsack Know-How—in addition to granola bars and plenty of water (which will not only keep you hydrated but also reduce the chances of painful swelling in your feet and ankles), you should include a few other items in your backpack. Blisters, though small, can ruin a hike. Pack moleskin and use it as soon as you notice rubbing or a sore spot on your foot. It’s also a good idea to have wraps or elastic bandages in case of an ankle sprain and bandages and antibiotic ointment for minor scrapes or insect bites.
Foot and ankle injuries require immediate medical attention. If you fall, twist an ankle, or injure your feet or ankles in any way while hiking, contact our Long Beach office in Douglas Park, CA by calling (562) 420-9800 as soon as possible. Until you can get in to see us, follow the RICE regimen: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we treat patients of all ages. During the month of September, we celebrate Fall Prevention Awareness Day , and it’s a good opportunity for us to address this serious concern for our senior patients.
Some sobering statistics about falls:
There is much that can be done to prevent senior falls. The first step is debunking common myths and changing the mindset of at-risk patients. Some of the more common fallacies about falls include:
“Falling is just a normal part of getting old.” Not so. For every senior who falls there are three that don’t. Staying active, wearing shoes that fit properly, getting your vision and other medical issues checked regularly and managing medications properly are just a few ways to reduce fall risk.
“If my feet hurt, I just need to be extra careful when I walk.” Foot pain is primary cause of fall injuries. When you are in pain, you naturally alter the way you walk to protect the vulnerable area. This, in turn, can throw off your balance and cause you to stumble. Get foot pain checked out promptly by our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas. The foot doctor can diagnose your podiatric problem and prescribe the necessary treatment to bring relief from pain.
“Using a cane or walker will really make me look old and lead to loss of independence.” If the foot doctor or physical therapist prescribes a walking aid, it will actually help you preserve your independence by enabling you to walk safely. Follow instructions for use and be sure the cane or walker is fitted for you.
“If I stay home, I’ll be safe.” The truth is that over half of all falls happen at home. Reduce the chances of taking a spill by getting rid of clutter on the floor and throw rugs. Add grab bars in the bathroom and a second handrail on stairs. Increase lighting in hallways and by the entrances to your home.
Don’t be embarrassed to share concerns about falling with the podiatrist at your next appointment. If you have questions, contact our Long Beach office in Douglas Park, CA by calling: (562) 420-9800.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we find that patients may not accurately understand the seriousness of decreased circulation to the lower extremities. The medical condition known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) describes a situation where plaque (fatty deposits or cholesterol) have adhered to the walls of the arteries that lead to your legs and feet causing a partial or total blockage. This restricts the blood flow to the lower half of your body. PAD is often associated with diabetes and a significant cause of some of the more serious complications of the disease. When oxygen and nutrient-rich blood cannot get to your legs and feet in significant quantities, it makes it difficult to heal wounds and ulcers. This can lead to infection and, in extreme cases, amputation.
There is a variety of symptoms of PAD that you may observe or experience. These include:
If you notice any of these signs, you should contact our Long Beach office for an appointment by calling: (562) 420-9800. Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas will want to examine your feet. There are a number of simple, non-invasive tests the foot doctor can perform to see if your symptoms point to PAD.
In addition to diabetes, PAD is also more common in patients who have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease or who have suffered a stroke. You are also at a higher risk for developing PAD if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of PAD, heart disease or stroke. The good news, however, is that some risk factors for PAD are within your control to control. These include:
Making healthy lifestyle choices now and partnering with your podiatrist to monitor your foot health can help you prevent PAD or slow its progression. If you have additional questions about PAD, contact us at our Long Beach office in Douglas Park CA.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we find that patients may not accurately understand the seriousness of decreased circulation to the lower extremities. The medical condition known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) describes a situation where plaque (fatty deposits or cholesterol) have adhered to the walls of the arteries that lead to your legs and feet causing a partial or total blockage. This restricts the blood flow to the lower half of your body. PAD is often associated with diabetes and a significant cause of some of the more serious complications of the disease. When oxygen and nutrient-rich blood cannot get to your legs and feet in significant quantities, it makes it difficult to heal wounds and ulcers. This can lead to infection and, in extreme cases, amputation.
There is a variety of symptoms of PAD that you may observe or experience. These include:
If you notice any of these signs, you should contact our Long Beach office for an appointment by calling: (562) 420-9800. Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas will want to examine your feet. There are a number of simple, non-invasive tests the foot doctor can perform to see if your symptoms point to PAD.
In addition to diabetes, PAD is also more common in patients who have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease or who have suffered a stroke. You are also at a higher risk for developing PAD if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of PAD, heart disease or stroke. The good news, however, is that some risk factors for PAD are within your control to control. These include:
Making healthy lifestyle choices now and partnering with your podiatrist to monitor your foot health can help you prevent PAD or slow its progression. If you have additional questions about PAD, contact us at our Long Beach office in Douglas Park CA.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we know that families all over Long Beach, Douglas Park area in California are preparing for that annual back-to-school shoe shopping trip. Of course, we think that the most important item on your list is new shoes. The choices you make for your children’s footwear can increase overall foot health and decrease the risk of injuries and podiatric disorders. Take our true/false quiz below to see how you score on shoe-shopping knowledge.
False—shoe size can vary among different brands and styles. You shouldn’t buy any shoes for your child without having them try them on. You also shouldn’t assume you know your child’s foot size. Children’s feet can increase a half size in as little as four months. It’s best to take your child to a shoe store, have their feet professionally measured, and then have them try on the shoes you are considering buying.
It’s best to shop first thing in the morning while my child is fresh and not cranky.
False—although your child may be in a better mood early in the day, that’s also when feet are at their smallest. Shoes bought then may feel tight later in the day and result in blisters or foot pain. Shop late in the afternoon or after dinner to ensure that shoes will feel comfortable all day long.
There should be some room in a shoe between the big toe and the front of the shoe.
True—about a thumb’s width (half an inch) of space will ensure that your child can move their toes and forefoot comfortably in the shoes. Tight toe boxes can lead to ingrown toenails and foot pain. You should also choose shoes that have firm heel counters, arch support, and a cushioned foot bed.
The podiatrist can offer recommendations regarding shoe styles for my child.
True—our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas will be happy to examine your child’s feet and make suggestions about proper footwear. It’s particularly important that you make an appointment at our Long Beach office if your child has sustained a foot or ankle injury recently or has a chronic foot condition such as flat feet or weak ankles. Contact us by calling: (562) 420-9800.
During the month of August, we at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center recognize Psoriasis Action Month. Psoriasis can appear on your legs and feet as well as on other parts of your body. Below are some facts about this condition and what can be done about it.
FACT: Psoriasis is a chronic disease of the immune system. It manifests most often as a skin condition. In people with psoriasis, new skin cells come to the surface too rapidly. This results in an inflammation of the skin.
FACT: It’s estimated that 8-12 million Americans currently suffer from psoriasis.
FACT: Psoriasis often first develops in patients between the ages of 15 and 25, but can strike at any age.
FACT: Researchers believe that the cause of psoriasis is a combination of an inherited genetic tendency for the disease combined with exposure to certain external triggers. Several possible triggers have been identified, including stress, certain medications, an injury or infection. Triggers are not the same for each person.
FACT: There are multiple types of psoriasis and they can appear differently on the skin. Thick patches of skin, redness, blisters, and lesions are some of the possible symptoms. Psoriasis may cause itching and pain.
FACT: Psoriasis can also cause inflammation and pain in your joints, tendons, and ligaments. About one in three patients with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis.
FACT: Patients with psoriasis are at an elevated risk for contracting other conditions like cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, osteoporosis, liver disease, diabetes, and more.
FACT: On your feet and toenails, psoriasis may look like athlete’s foot or fungal toenail infection. For this reason, if you notice any unusual changes in your skin or toenails or you are experiencing unexplained joint pain, contact our Long Beach office by calling: (562) 420-9800 for an appointment. Our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas will examine your feet and determine whether an infection, psoriasis or some other disorder is the source of your discomfort.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we know that diabetes can affect your skin, joints, and bones in a number of ways. Two conditions associated with the disease—peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and neuropathy—are of particular concern when it comes to your lower extremities. PAD is a narrowing or blocking of the arteries to your legs, which can lead to poor circulation. This means that nutrient and oxygen-rich blood necessary for healing cannot reach your legs, feet, and toes as quickly as needed. Neuropathy is nerve damage that can result in loss of feeling in your feet, which makes it difficult to perceive pain and injury. This double whammy means that patients with diabetes are at a higher risk for a host of podiatric problems, including:
Difficulty healing can cause even minor foot and toe problems to become major threats with the potential for infection and even amputation. Below are some ways you can be proactive in preventing foot problems if you have diabetes:
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, we know that many of our patients like to relax by spending a day at the beach. However, besides rain, nothing ruins a beach day faster than a foot or ankle injury. Below are some easy ways to avoid foot trouble and enjoy some fun in the surf and sand.
Watch out for Jellyfish—a dead jellyfish that has washed up on the shore through its tentacles can still sting you. If this happens, use gloves to protect your hands and gently remove the tentacles. Apply vinegar or baking soda to help the pain and swelling decrease.
Wear Flip Flops—this is one of the few times that you will hear us recommend flip-flops, but for a beach day, they can help your feet in several ways:
Re-Apply Sunscreen—a water-resistant sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or higher should be used on the tops and bottoms of your feet if you are laying out on the beach. To be effective in preventing sunburn, it needs to be reapplied every two hours, and after each time you take a dip in the ocean.
Bring Sneakers—if beach volleyball, Frisbee or other active games are part of your idea of fun at the shore pack sneakers in your beach bag. Wearing flip-flops or playing barefoot can increase your risk for an ankle sprain in the shifting sands.
Remember Your Water Bottle—drinking lots of water is not only essential for staying hydrated, it helps you avoid swelling of the ankles and feet which can be painful and make it difficult to fit into your shoes for the ride home.
If your beach day results in an injury, rash or other foot or ankle symptoms, make an appointment at our Long Beach office (562-420-9800) promptly so that our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas can examine your feet and treat any podiatric problems.
During July, we celebrate National Youth Sports Week. As many of our young patients begin to think about conditioning for fall sports, we at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center would like to share some information about how to protect your child’s feet and encourage safe sports participation.
Participating in a sport has many benefits. It helps your child be physically fit and maintain a healthy weight and hopefully inspires them to develop a healthy lifestyle. While it may seem like the start of the school year is still far away, it takes time to get a body properly conditioned for a sport. If your child has spent the summer glued to their phone and video games, it’s essential that they get off the couch and start some regular physical activity. Check with your child’s coach to see if there are specific conditioning exercises that are recommended.
Before the start of a new sports season, it’s a good idea to get a checkup with one of our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas. You can call our Long Beach office at (562) 420-9800 to schedule an appointment. The foot doctor can do a complete examination of your child’s feet and ankles and also follow up on any previous sports injuries. If there are chronic conditions such as weak ankles or Sever’s disease, the podiatrist can make recommendations for shoe designs and strategies to help reduce discomfort and risk for injury.
The most important piece of equipment for any sport is your shoes. Some tips to consider:
If you have additional questions about your child’s feet and sports, don’t hesitate to contact us.
At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center, our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria M. Foley or Dr. Constance Ornelas know that your shoes play a significant role in the health of your feet. Many common podiatric disorders can be caused or made significantly worse by wearing improper footwear. That’s why our podiatrists may ask you to bring the shoes you wear most often to our Long Beach office when you come for your appointment. If you have a chronic foot problem, talk to the foot doctor (contact us at 562-420-9800) about the best styles and brands of shoes for your particular condition. Below are some recommendations for choosing good shoes.
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