Items filtered by date: January 2024

Ankle fractures can result in significant pain and discomfort, impacting one's daily life and mobility. When an ankle fracture occurs, it usually involves one or more of the ankle bones, including the tibia, fibula, or talus. The severity of pain can vary depending on the type and location of the fracture. Acute pain is a common immediate symptom after an ankle fracture. It typically occurs due to the injury itself, which may involve tearing of ligaments, damage to blood vessels, and nerve irritation. The affected area becomes swollen, bruised, and tender to the touch. Chronic pain may develop as a result of an ankle fracture, especially if it does not heal correctly or if there are complications, such as post-traumatic arthritis. Additionally, chronic pain can persist long after the initial injury and may require ongoing management, including pain medications. Treatment for an ankle fracture may include immobilization, casting, surgery, or other interventions to promote proper healing and alleviate pain. If you have broken your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, are thick, rough skin growths found on the bottom of the foot. While they are benign, the discomfort they can cause is far from trivial. Plantar warts typically form on pressure points such as the heel or ball of the foot, entering the skin through cuts or scratches. Direct contact with an infected surface or person can also lead to their development. Treatment options include keratolytic therapy, cryotherapy, immunotherapy, and laser therapy.  In severe cases, surgery is needed. Keratolytic therapy employs acid medication to thin the wart, prompting the outer skin layer's shedding. Cryotherapy involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, creating a red blister that eventually leads to the wart's natural removal. Immunotherapy, using creams or shots, enhances your immune system to combat HPV and eliminate the wart. Laser therapy utilizes focused light to cut away the wart, while surgical removal, performed by numbing the skin and burning the area, becomes necessary in some cases to prevent recurrence. If you have been infected with plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your foot and suggest the treatment option that is best for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pregnancy brings about numerous changes in a woman's body, and foot discomfort often becomes a notable concern. One primary cause is the increased weight and pressure exerted on the feet due to the growing baby. This added stress can lead to swelling, commonly known as edema, making shoes feel tighter. Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect ligaments, potentially resulting in flat feet or overpronation, which can cause discomfort. Additionally, fluid retention can contribute to a feeling of heaviness and puffiness in the feet. As the pregnancy progresses, the body produces a hormone called relaxin, which loosens ligaments in preparation for childbirth, potentially impacting foot arches and stability. Common symptoms include swelling, aching, and changes in foot shape. Choosing supportive footwear, elevating the feet when possible, and staying physically active can help alleviate these discomforts and promote overall foot health during pregnancy. If you are experiencing foot pain during your pregnancy, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing appropriate footwear is essential for maintaining foot health, enhancing physical activity, and preventing injuries. Well-fitted, activity-specific shoes that address individual foot concerns and offer adequate protection to feet, legs, and joints are essential. A suitable shoe should provide cushioning through its midsole, support proper foot alignment, ensure immediate comfort, and offer a snug, yet non-restrictive fit. Shopping post-exercise or late in the day ensures shoes remain comfortable when your feet are their largest. When trying on shoes, wear the type of socks you plan to use during the activity. Have your feet measured each time you buy shoes since size can change with age, and one foot may be slightly larger. Ensure there is room for toe movement and avoid shoes that require breaking in. Walk or run a few steps to assess comfort and heel grip. Ultimately, the right shoes can alleviate foot pain, improve mobility, and contribute to an active and pain-free lifestyle. If you would like specific help in finding shoes that fit properly, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can take into consideration your specific footwear concerns and make tailored footwear recommendations.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.