Items filtered by date: December 2025

Foot care is especially important for individuals with diabetes because reduced sensation and poor circulation can increase the risk of complications. Examining your feet daily helps you notice cuts, redness, swelling, or changes that may need attention. Caring for toenails by trimming them straight across and keeping the skin clean and moisturized supports overall foot health. Wearing properly fitting shoes protects the feet from pressure and friction that can lead to sores or ulcers. A podiatrist can provide regular evaluations, manage toenail and skin concerns, and address issues before they become serious. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you make foot care a daily priority and seek podiatric support to keep your feet healthy, comfortable, and protected.

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 Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor 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 offices located in Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fibromas are firm, benign nodules that develop within the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. These growths often appear as small lumps in the arch and may feel smooth but solid beneath the skin. Symptoms include aching when standing, sharp pain during walking, and increased discomfort when wearing shoes that press against the area. The exact cause is not always clear, but contributing factors include genetics, repetitive stress, or previous foot injuries. A podiatrist begins by evaluating the foot through physical examination and imaging to confirm the presence and size of the fibroma. Treatment options include custom orthotics to reduce pressure, stretching programs, anti-inflammatory care, or steroid injections to help ease discomfort. In more persistent cases, advanced therapies or surgery may be considered to restore comfort and function. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and personalized care.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes irritated and inflamed. It often develops from repetitive stress, wearing improper footwear, prolonged standing, high arches, or flat feet. Symptoms usually include sharp heel pain when taking the first steps in the morning, discomfort after activity, and tenderness along the arch. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide a custom treatment plan, offer orthotics, and guide stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve pressure on the plantar fascia. If heel pain is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

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?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

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 care needs.

Blisters are a common problem while wearing high heels because friction builds up with every step, especially during long periods of walking or standing. Wearing tight or narrow heels increases rubbing on the toes and heels, which leads to painful fluid filled pockets on the skin, known as blisters. Prevention starts with choosing heels that fit properly, and many people find relief by buying a size larger for more room. Wearing wedges provides more stability and reduces pressure on the foot, and alternating heels with flat shoes throughout the day helps limit irritation. A podiatrist can assess problem areas, recommend protective padding, and treat existing blisters safely before they become infected. If blisters are slowing you down, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Poor circulation occurs when blood flow through the vessels becomes limited, reducing the oxygen and nutrients that reach the feet. This issue affects the feet because they are the farthest from the heart and rely on strong vascular health for proper function. Signs of poor circulation include numbness, tingling, swelling, color changes, and cramping after activity or rest. Common causes include peripheral artery disease, diabetes, and smoking, all of which damage blood vessels and restrict flow. A podiatrist can identify circulation problems through specialized exams and provide treatments that improve blood flow, protect the skin, and prevent complications. If you notice changes in foot comfort or color, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. 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

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

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.