Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage of the arteries, typically in the legs, due to the buildup of fatty deposits. This restricts blood flow to the limbs, affecting the feet and causing various symptoms. Those at risk include smokers, diabetic patients, individuals with high blood pressure or cholesterol, and those with a family history of cardiovascular disease. Symptoms may include leg pain, cramping, numbness, weakness, or coldness in the feet and legs, especially during physical activity. However, some people with PAD may not experience any symptoms, a condition known as asymptomatic PAD. A podiatrist evaluates PAD through a comprehensive consultation, which may include assessing symptoms, and medical history, and performing tests like ankle-brachial index measurements or Doppler ultrasound to determine blood flow. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, improving circulation, and reducing the risk of complications through lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions. If you suffer from foot symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
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.
Heel spurs occur in two main forms. One is called heel spur syndrome and the other is termed insertional Achilles tendinitis. Heel spur syndrome involves a bony growth at the bottom of the heel, often resulting from repetitive stress or strain on the foot. Symptoms include sharp pain upon standing or walking, particularly after periods of rest. Conversely, insertional Achilles tendinitis involves inflammation where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone. This condition commonly arises from overuse, tight calf muscles, or poor footwear, leading to pain and swelling at the back of the heel. Treatment for both conditions typically starts with conservative measures like rest, stretching, and orthotics. If you have pain that could signify one of these types of heel spurs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide corticosteroid injections or custom shoe inserts to alleviate discomfort. In severe cases, surgical options, such as heel spur removal or Achilles tendon repair, may be considered.
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.
Foot care is a critical aspect of diabetic management, as individuals with diabetes are prone to foot comp-lications. Maintaining skin integrity is essential, especially in diabetic feet where issues like neuropathy and poor circulation can lead to ulcers, infections, and possibly even amputations. Preventive care and regular screening are paramount in mitigating risks. A multidisciplinary team, including podiatrists, plays a pivotal role in diabetic foot care. Podiatrists specialize in assessing foot health, identifying early signs of complications, and providing tailored interventions. They offer expertise in wound care, orthotic management, and footwear recommendations, all aimed at preventing and managing foot problems. By emphasizing preventive measures, such as daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, and appropriate footwear, podiatrists collaborate with patients to minimize the likelihood of diabetic foot complications. If you are a diabetic patient, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist as part of your diabetes management.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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.
Recovery from a high ankle sprain sustained while playing volleyball requires patience and proper care. Unlike a low ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, a high ankle sprain involves damage to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula bones above the ankle joint. High ankle sprains often occur due to sudden twisting or rotational movements. If you play volleyball for fun or sport and have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation of the injury and a tailored treatment plan. This may include immobilization with a brace or cast to allow for proper healing, along with recommendations for rest, compression, and elevation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn ligaments. Close monitoring by a podiatrist ensures that the recovery progresses smoothly and helps prevent long-term complications.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
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