Approximately 60,000 lower extremity amputations are performed annually in the United States in patients with diabetes. This fact makes ulceration, infection, and gangrene a prevalent foot and ankle issue for diabetics people. Many amputations can be prevented through daily foot care habits and regular visits to a podiatrist to monitor foot ulcers. These experts suggest adopting an everyday foot care routine of inspecting the feet thoroughly for any changes in shape, color, sensation, or skin integrity. To prevent complications, podiatrists also recommend a gentle cleaning that involves washing feet in lukewarm water with mild soap, avoiding soaking, and ensuring thorough drying, especially between the toes. Nail care includes trimming nails straight across, avoiding rounding the corners. Callus management suggests gently reducing calluses with a foot file or pumice stone, rubbing in one direction to avoid skin tears. Diabetic patients should opt for cushioned, breathable shoes with soft uppers. Choosing cotton or natural fiber socks over synthetic materials is recommended. If you have diabetes, and are experiencing foot ulcers, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who is medically trained to manage this condition.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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.

Plantar fasciitis, a common foot condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the tissue supporting the sole of the foot, can cause a great deal of pain. Orthotics are known to be helpful in eliminating sharp heel pain, particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting. The two primary causes associated with plantar fasciitis are muscle imbalance and poor foot biomechanics. The main types of orthotics that can provide much needed support include heel cups or pads, and shoe inserts. Heel cups are small inserts for the back of your shoe that lift the heel slightly. This reduces tension on the Achilles tendon, subsequently easing stress on the plantar fascia. Additionally, the cushioning effect helps to absorb shock. Experts suggest wearing heel cups in both shoes to avoid leg length discrepancies that could lead to further issues in the foot, knee, and back. Shoe inserts provide support beyond the heel. With a deep heel cup and contoured shape, they provide stability and biomechanical support. Half length insoles fit under the heel and arch, leaving the toes free. To find out which type of orthotics for plantar fasciitis is best for you, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

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

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, unveils its presence through distinctive symptoms that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. The hallmark of gout is intense joint pain, often reaching its peak during the nighttime. This excruciating pain typically targets the big toe but can affect other joints as well. Swelling and redness accompany the pain, creating a visibly discomforting experience. The affected joint may become tender to the touch, and even the lightest pressure can induce agony. Gout flares are unpredictable, with symptoms emerging suddenly and subsiding gradually. Beyond the acute episodes, persistent discomfort and stiffness may linger, affecting joint mobility. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for early intervention and management. While gout's pain levels can be overwhelming, understanding the nuances of its symptoms empowers individuals to seek timely medical attention, explore effective treatments, and regain control over their joint health. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes exhibit an abnormal bending at the middle joint. In most cases of hammertoe, the second toe is affected. This prevalent foot deformity can lead to discomfort and biomechanical complications. The causes of hammertoe are diverse. Included are an unusually long metatarsal or toe bone, poor alignment of foot joint surfaces, and prolonged wear of ill-fitting shoes. The constriction imposed by tight or narrow shoes often aggravates the condition and potentially causes calluses, corns, ulcers, and metatarsal pain. Treatment for hammertoe by a podiatrist aims at alleviating pain and preventing complications, with a focus on wearing appropriate footwear that features a wide toe box to reduce pressure. Additionally, toe pads and orthotics may be recommended to shield the toes from any shoe related discomfort. Prompt treatment of skin irritations and ulcers is essential. Surgical intervention becomes an option when other measures fail to relieve pain and disability. Its aim is to straighten the rigidly fixed toe deformity and correct its alignment. If you suspect a hammertoe or experience foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.