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Big toe joint pain is common among pickleball players due to the quick pivots, lunges, and bursts of movement required in the game. One frequent cause is turf toe, which occurs when the big toe is forced upward, straining the ligaments around the joint. Symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness, and difficulty pushing off while moving. Risk factors include playing on hard surfaces, wearing unsupportive shoes, and repetitive stress on the forefoot. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, provide treatment to relieve pain, and recommend footwear or orthotics to prevent future problems. Do not let toe pain sideline you from the court. If you have toe pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, allowing you to resume playing this popular game. 

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the feet and ankles. This often happens after long periods of standing or sitting, especially in warm weather, when gravity causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, such as flip-flops, may also contribute to swelling by failing to help the foot muscles and veins return fluid upward. Age can increase the risk because weakened veins have more difficulty moving blood against gravity. Other possible causes of swollen feet and ankles include high salt intake, pregnancy-related changes, or certain health conditions that affect circulation. Swelling may cause the skin on the feet and ankles to appear stretched and shiny, and, in some cases, pressing on the area may leave a noticeable indentation. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, provide treatment options, and recommend whether additional care is needed. If you are experiencing swelling in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also called pes planus, occur when the longitudinal arch along the inside of the foot is lowered or absent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition may affect one or both feet and is common in children until the arch develops, usually by the age of 5. Some people remain flat-footed into adulthood without symptoms, while others may begin to feel pain in the feet, toes, or ankles. Discomfort may arise from excessive standing, running, or jumping, poorly fitted shoes, sudden weight gain, or injury. Flat feet can also be inherited or linked to conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of the feet, recommend orthotics for improved alignment, and in rare cases, discuss surgery if severe problems occur. If you have pain related to flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are many different foot problems, and a podiatrist is the medical expert who can help. For example, corns, bunions, and toenail issues can cause pain and discomfort, affecting your daily life. Corns are thickened areas of skin caused by pressure or friction, often from wearing tight shoes. They may look like hard, raised bumps, and can feel sore or tender. Bunions are bony bumps at the base of the big toe, often caused by genetics, arthritis, or poor footwear. They can lead to swelling, pain, and difficulty walking. Toenail problems like fungal infections or ingrown nails may appear discolored, thickened, or painful. A podiatrist can examine your feet, perform diagnostic tests, and offer treatments such as orthotics, minor surgical procedures, or medications to relieve pain and correct the problem. Ignoring these issues can lead to further complications, so early care is vital. If you have foot pain or any of the above conditions,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal and bacterial foot infections can develop when microorganisms enter through small cracks or cuts in the skin. This typically occurs in moist environments like public showers, locker rooms, or around pools. One common fungal infection is athlete’s foot, which may cause peeling skin, redness, itching, or blisters, often between the toes or along the soles. If left untreated, it can spread and increase the risk of a toenail infection called onychomycosis, which can result in thickened, yellowed, or brittle nails. Bacterial infections, such as cellulitis or foot abscesses, may cause swelling, pain, heat, and drainage from the affected area and may spread quickly, if not properly treated. A podiatrist can perform a thorough exam and determine whether the infection is fungal or bacterial, before providing the appropriate treatment. If you believe you have a fungal or bacterial foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate 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 one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoid fractures occur in the small bones beneath the big toe joint, often due to repetitive stress or direct trauma. These bones, called the tibial and fibular sesamoids, are embedded within a tendon and help with weight-bearing and motion. Fractures or damage to sesamoid bones are especially common among dancers, joggers, and people who wear high-heeled or thin-soled shoes. Pain is usually located beneath the head of the first metatarsal ,and may worsen when walking or wearing shoes that increase pressure under the big toe. In some cases, sesamoid fractures are confused with other conditions like gout. Diagnosis typically involves examining the foot while moving the toe and using imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the fracture. A podiatrist can recommend immobilization techniques, or, in some cases, surgery to relieve persistent pain and restore function. If you have severe pain beneath the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunionette, also termed a tailor’s bunion, is a bony prominence that develops at the base of the little toe where the fifth metatarsal meets the toe. This condition can lead to pain, especially if the area becomes inflamed from pressure or rubbing inside a shoe. As the bunionette forms, it often causes the little toe to shift inward toward the fourth toe, making the foot appear wider and increasing discomfort while wearing regular footwear. Some people may have a genetic tendency for this deformity, while others develop it due to structural traits in the feet, such as how the toes or metatarsal bones align. Wearing narrow shoes with a pointy toe may worsen the issue, especially in women. In some cases, bunionettes may develop after certain foot surgeries or as a result of joint inflammation. Complications include painful corns between the fourth and fifth toes, joint pain, or arthritis. If you have a bunion on your pinky toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arch pain often results from injury or structural problems within the foot. The arch, made up of bones, ligaments, and tendons, plays an important role in absorbing shock, supporting body weight, and maintaining balance. A common cause of arch pain is overpronation, where the foot rolls inward during walking, straining the arch and nearby tissues. Cavus foot, a condition marked by a high arch, may increase pressure on certain areas of the foot, leading to pain and instability. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction can weaken the tendon that helps hold up the arch, causing pain along the inside of the foot and ankle. Flat feet, nerve conditions, overuse, and physical strain are also known to contribute to arch discomfort. A podiatrist can help identify the underlying cause and provide treatment, which may include orthotics, bracing, or surgery. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. 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 Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.