Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal skin infection primarily affecting the feet. It presents with symptoms such as itching, peeling, and cracking, often occurring on the soles of the feet and between the toes. This contagious infection spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces, making environments like swimming pools and locker rooms potential hotspots. Wearing tight-fitting shoes exacerbates the issue by creating a moist environment conducive to fungal growth. Athlete's foot can manifest differently, such as toe web infections, moccasin-type infections, or vesicular infections. Diagnosis generally relies on visual examination, but sometimes skin or nail samples are tested for fungi. Adequate foot hygiene, including keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks daily, and wearing breathable shoes, plays a vital role in prevention and management. Medication is often prescribed for a successful recovery, and it is beneficial to complete the full course, even after symptoms subside. It is suggested for Individuals with diabetes or persistent infections to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for more advanced care.

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.

Understanding pes cavus, commonly known as a high-arched foot, is essential for managing its impact on foot health, especially as you age and the risk of falls increases. Pes cavus can develop due to various reasons. Included are nerve conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, spine issues, or past polio infections, leading to muscle imbalances and weakness in the feet and ankles. The three main types of pes cavus are when the heel is turned inward, pushed up, and when the arch is just very high. Each type has its own signs and can be seen on special X-rays. Symptoms of pes cavus can include foot pain, feeling unstable when walking, and having trouble finding comfortable shoes, which usually get worse as the arch gets higher. Treatment usually starts with non-surgical options like custom orthotics and exercises to improve balance. In more severe cases, surgery might be needed to fix the foot's shape and reduce pain. If you are experiencing foot pain or balance issues that may be related to high arches, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

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

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

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 Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In the hustle and bustle of the workday, it is easy to overlook the importance of foot health. Neglecting your feet can lead to discomfort and long-term issues. Begin by selecting proper footwear that provides ample support and a comfortable fit. Ensure your shoes are appropriate for your specific work environment, offering protection against potential hazards. Take breaks to stretch and move, promoting healthy blood circulation and preventing stiffness. Elevating your feet during breaks can also alleviate pressure. Maintain a clean and organized workspace to minimize the risk of tripping or falling. For employees who use ladders, it is beneficial to ensure the ladder stands securely on the ground. If your job involves prolonged periods of standing or walking, invest in anti-fatigue mats to cushion your feet. Regularly inspect your feet for any signs of discomfort, blisters, or swelling. Addressing issues promptly can prevent more serious complications. If you would like additional information about foot protection during the work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot cramps, though common, can be a perplexing and uncomfortable experience. Understanding the underlying causes is essential for effective prevention and relief. Dehydration is a leading contributor, and insufficient fluid intake can disrupt the balance of electrolytes, leading to cramping. Poor circulation, often associated with prolonged sitting or standing, can deprive the muscles of adequate oxygen, triggering cramps. Overexertion or inadequate stretching during physical activities may strain muscles and result in cramping. Certain medications, such as diuretics or statins, may also be culprits. Mineral deficiencies, particularly in magnesium, potassium, or calcium, play a significant role in cramp development. Footwear choices, including ill-fitting shoes or high heels, can contribute to muscle imbalances and cramping. Pregnancy, neurological conditions, and metabolic disorders are additional factors that can induce foot cramps. If you have foot cramps, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective treatment methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Several factors contribute to the risk of developing foot blisters. The most evident risk factors include friction, pressure, and overuse. High friction levels and frequent cycles of material or objects over the skin increase the likelihood of blister formation. Additionally, carrying heavy loads exerts more pressure on the feet, which has been shown to increase blister incidence. Skin characteristics can also play a role, as thicker and stiffer skin, particularly on the soles of the feet, may be prone to blistering. Skin moisture affects friction levels, with increased moisture leading to higher friction. If you have irritating foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide you with relief options.

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 one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.