Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes and along the soles. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and swimming areas. Unlike simple dry skin, athlete’s foot often causes persistent itching, redness, burning, peeling, cracking, or blisters. The skin may appear scaly and irritated, and the infection can spread to toenails or other areas, if left untreated. A podiatrist can examine the feet, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend effective antifungal treatments, foot hygiene strategies, and preventive measures. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Dry, red, shiny patches on a child’s feet can look alarming, but several conditions may cause this appearance. One common source is juvenile plantar dermatosis, a condition that creates smooth, reddish areas on the forefoot due to friction, sweat, and tight footwear. Eczema can also create irritated, dry patches that become shiny when the skin is inflamed. Some children react to detergents, shoe materials, or dyes, leading to contact dermatitis that appears as bright, irritated skin. Although less frequent in younger children, fungal infections may cause peeling, redness, and discomfort. Psoriasis can occasionally involve the feet as well, creating distinct shiny plaques. Rarely, certain illnesses that cause redness and swelling of the feet may be involved. A podiatrist can identify the cause, guide treatment, and recommend ways to protect the skin. If your child’s symptoms continue or worsen, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Selecting the right running shoes starts with understanding your running style and how your feet move during activity. Your terrain also matters, since running on roads, tracks, or uneven surfaces places different demands on your feet. Distance plays a role as well, because longer runs often require more support and cushioning to reduce fatigue and strain. Personal preferences such as fit, flexibility, and overall comfort should never be overlooked, as the best shoe is one you feel confident wearing consistently. Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to foot pain, blisters, and overuse injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, foot structure, and training habits to recommend shoes that match your needs and help prevent injury. If running discomfort is slowing you down, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate running shoes to wear.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Simple exercises can help keep the big toe more comfortable and mobile when arthritis begins to limit motion. One option is a seated toe glide. Sit with your foot flat on the floor and slowly slide the big toe forward and back without lifting it. This movement encourages joint mobility without excessive pressure. Another helpful exercise is the big toe lift. While keeping the smaller toes relaxed, lift only the big toe upward, hold briefly, and place it back down. This strengthens the muscles that stabilize the joint and can reduce stiffness over time. These activities should feel smooth and controlled, never forced. A podiatrist can determine which exercises match the severity of your arthritis, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatments that make movement easier and safer. If foot discomfort increases or motion becomes more limited, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.