The foot is a fascinating and complicated structure. The entire body is supported by the feet, which consist of 26 bones and numerous tendons, ligaments, and muscles. There are three parts to the foot: the rear, mid, and forefoot. The arch of the foot is instrumental in absorbing the impact that comes from walking and running and acts as a lever that can move the foot. While standing normally, the body is balanced over the center of the foot and this places the greatest amount of stress on the arch. This pressure moves to the heel, which can hold approximately 50% of body weight. Many things naturally happen when walking occurs. The arch and surrounding tissues must absorb the impact as the heel strikes the ground and eventually pushes off as the step is completed. This is typically a smooth and coordinated movement, and any glitches during this process may result in foot pain. Additional stress is put on the ankles and arches with heavy patients, as the entire body works harder while walking. If you would like to know more information about foot structure, please consult with a podiatrist.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor 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
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 offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Healthy feet allow seniors to stay mobile and remain active and independent. Proper foot care is recommended for a lifetime but more importantly as one ages, as seniors are more prone to medical conditions and foot problems. For example, many seniors have diabetes and can be susceptible to nerve damage, infections, and poor circulation in their feet. Similarly, many in this age group suffer from some form of arthritis that causes foot pain. Daily foot care that will maintain the health of one’s feet include washing, drying, and moisturizing feet daily, and checking feet for cuts, blisters, or any problems that could lead to infection. Cutting toenails regularly and straight across to prevent ingrown toenails, wearing properly fitted footwear and soft cotton or wool socks to protect and cushion the feet, and staying active to maintain circulation in the legs and feet will also help. A podiatrist is a good medical professional to include on your healthcare team if you are a senior or providing care for the aged. Such a doctor can help in maintaining foot health, identify sources of foot discomfort, and suggest treatment options.
If you need your feet checked, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hairdressers, restaurant line cooks and servers, teachers, and warehouse workers all have one thing in common—they spend a great part of their workday standing on their feet. This prolonged activity can result in chronic pain and discomfort in the feet, legs, and back. The first line of defense against foot pain caused from prolonged standing is proper footwear. Experts suggest shoes with a flatter heel that offer ample arch support. If you stand on hard surfaces, extra cushioning should be considered while choosing your shoes. Insoles or custom orthotics may be necessary to correct any ongoing conditions that may contribute to pain or fatigue. Shoes that breathe can help to prevent infections that thrive in moist environments. High heels should be avoided. It is also recommended that regular stretching exercises help blood circulate to the feet. Losing weight can reduce the pressure felt in the feet and legs, and it can help to keep joints healthy. Paying attention to your posture can aid in distributing your weight evenly and avoiding future leg and back problems. And finally, rest your feet when you can—taking breaks at work when possible and elevating them at home. If your foot pain becomes persistent, even when at rest, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for guidance and further treatment options.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Anyone who cares about keeping their feet in a healthy condition ought to be aware of ways they can prevent heel spurs. This troublesome condition essentially causes a bony outgrowth on the bottom of the foot made up of calcium. Not all cases of heel spurs cause the patient pain. However, some heel spurs can be associated with severe pain from plantar fasciitis. If you are someone who wants to be diligent about preventing the onset of heel spurs, there are a number of steps that you can take. First, you can follow a sensible diet and successfully manage your weight. This is because the heavier you are, the more weight you are placing on your heel when walking, which can increase the likelihood of heel spurs. Additionally, you can be mindful of the surfaces on which you are walking and running. For example, if you are someone who walks or runs frequently, you can choose to do these activities on surfaces that are not hard, as this tends to ultimately wear down the heel. Lastly, you can avoid footwear that puts added strain on your heel, making you more susceptible to developing heel spurs. Such footwear includes flip flops and high heels. If you want to know about more ways in which you can avoid developing heel spurs, please see a podiatrist who can be able to help.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Although almost anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, some individuals are at a greater risk of exhibiting this foot ailment. One such higher risk group includes dancers. Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that causes heel pain. It is caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia that runs from the toes to the heel. Those suffering from plantar fasciitis typically experience sharp pain in the heel, tight Achilles tendons, and pronounced pain when beginning to walk after extended periods of rest. Dancers can be at a higher risk of experiencing plantar fasciitis because they engage in large amounts of physical activity wearing high heels and often exert themselves without taking adequate breaks. If dancers do not properly stretch their feet before dancing, they are more susceptible to developing plantar fasciitis. There are a number of steps that dancers can take to reduce their chances of experiencing plantar fasciitis. Namely, dancers can focus on stretching the Achilles tendon before and after dancing. Dancers might opt for the runner’s stretch, heel drops, or the downward facing dog. If you are a dancer, you might want to be proactive in protecting the health of your feet by consulting a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Poor circulation is a serious ailment that has several symptoms. It occurs when blood flow is restricted and can happen for various reasons. One of these is diabetes, as a result of elevated blood sugar levels. Nerve damage may result, the feet can have a tingling sensation, and they may lose feeling completely. Additional reasons include a possible blood clot, which may block blood flow. Patients who smoke may be at an increased risk for poor circulation, which can aid in damaging the blood vessels. Symptoms associated with poor circulation include cold extremities, swollen feet, and poor digestion. Normal blood flow is crucial in having proper digestion, and symptoms of this include abdominal pain, diarrhea, or cramping. Poor circulation for any reason is not to be taken lightly, and the feet can be negatively affected. It is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat poor circulation.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Falls are never fun and can be particularly dangerous for older people. The CDC reports that one in five falls leads to a serious injury, such as a broken bone or head injury. The fear of falling can also impact the quality of one’s life as it can prevent a person from being active and thriving. Because of these things, it is important for seniors and those caring for them to do what it is possible to prevent falls. Generally, older people fall more often than others due to lack of exercise, medication side effects, a health problem (such as diabetes causing low blood sugar episodes), poor vision, or things related to fall risks left unattended to in their homes. Practicing balance exercises, checking the home for hazards (like loose throw rugs or ice around the perimeter of a home), making sure shoes are flat, practical, and sturdy, and learning to use walking aids, such as canes, properly can all help in the prevention of falls. If you are a senior or caregiver and you or one you are watching over wants to learn more about specific fall risks and prevention, see a podiatrist for a customized examination and personalized plan.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Experts say that 90 percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) will experience problems with their feet and ankles. Inflammation from this disease causes pain, swelling, redness and a limited range of movement in the joints. In addition, the cartilage, ligaments, and tendons are broken down by the immune system. This, in turn, may cause difficulty in standing and walking for long periods of time. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the ankle by making it more difficult to go up and down steps. In the hindfoot area, RA impedes the ability to walk on uneven surfaces, such as gravel. Pain generally starts on the outside of the foot, and eventually moves to the arch and the inside of the foot. It may even lead to flat feet as bones shift and become damaged. In the midfoot, the ligaments that support the feet become weaker and cause a collapse of the arch. Deformities in the toes, such as bunions and hammertoe, caused by rheumatoid arthritis may make it difficult not only to walk, but to wear shoes. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, it is a good idea to develop an ongoing relationship with a podiatrist to monitor these and other changes to your feet and ankles.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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