If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

November 2018

Monday, 26 November 2018 00:00

Causes of Heel Spurs

If you have a heel spur, you are most likely familiar with the pain and discomfort this condition may cause. The small, bony protrusion that forms on the heel may be a result of repetitive stress the heel endures, possibly originating from frequent running or jumping. Additionally, if the incorrect shoes are worn, or an abnormal walking pattern exists, a heel spur may begin to develop. Some patients may notice pain in the heel and surrounding area while walking, and it may be quite uncomfortable in the morning when the first steps are taken. There may be measures that can be taken, which may possibly prevent heel spurs from forming. These may include wearing shoes that properly support your feet, performing gentle foot stretches before physical activity begins, and maintaining a healthy weight, which may lessen the amount of pressure the heel may endure. If you have heel pain, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can determine if you have a heel spur and can advise on proper treatment techniques.

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 Dr. Nahid Birjandi from Mission Viejo, CA. 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 conditions 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 office located in Mission Viejo, CA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
Friday, 23 November 2018 00:00

Reminder - When was the last time...

Custom orthotics (shoe inserts) should be replaced periodically. They need to fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles.

The medical condition that is referred to as athlete’s foot will typically affect many different types of people regardless if they are athletes. The tinea fungus is responsible for this uncomfortable ailment and will survive in moist and warm areas. It is known to be extremely contagious, and it often lives in public pools, showers, and surrounding areas. The noticeable symptoms may include cracked and peeling skin between the toes, dry or raw skin on your feet, or an itchy sensation that may affect the entire foot. There may be pre-existing medical conditions that may include diabetes or a weakened immune system, which can contribute to the onset of athlete’s foot. If you feel you may have developed this ailment, it is suggested to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and correct treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Nahid Birjandi from Mission Viejo, CA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms:

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

 

Read more about How to Deal with Athlete's Foot
Tuesday, 13 November 2018 00:00

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Living with foot pain is hard on your body.  Give us a call and let us find out what's wrong.

There are many children who experience low muscle tone in their feet, and this may lead to a condition that is referred to as flat feet. The structure of the foot may be altered, and it may be noticeable if the feet are far apart and turned outward while standing. There are several tendons and ligaments that support the bones of the feet, and those children who are afflicted with flat feet may experience limited stability to the joints of the foot. Additionally, the balance of the body may be negatively affected when these particular muscles are weak, and may generally affect the overall symmetry of the body. Research has shown the tendon that connects the heel to the toes is known as the plantar fascia. This portion of tissue may provide less than adequate support for the arch if low arches in the feet are present. If your child has this condition, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist for additional important information relating to flat feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Nahid Birjandi from Mission Viejo, CA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms:

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Read more about Flat Feet
Monday, 05 November 2018 00:00

Pregnancy and Oedema

One of the most common ailments pregnant women notice is the onset of swelling in their feet and ankles. This condition is referred to as oedema, and research has shown that it generally affects between fifty to eighty percent of healthy pregnant women. This may typically be a result of the excess pressure the growing fetus exerts on the blood vessels surrounding the pelvis. The circulation process may become slower because of the additional fluid that is retained, and the feet and ankles may be affected by this. Many women have found effective ways to maintain comfort during their pregnancies, including elevating their feet as often possible, avoiding standing for extended periods of time, and performing gentle exercises on a regular basis. Some women have found that wearing compression stockings may aid in reducing a portion of the swelling. If you would like additional information about how pregnancy can affect your feet, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Nahid Birjandi from Mission Viejo, CA. 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 Mission Viejo, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Saturday, 03 November 2018 00:00

Do your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately?

Connect with us