There are different ways of fracturing a toe. A sudden increase in running or walking can produce a stress or hairline fracture, and can be uncomfortable. When a heavy object is dropped on it, or if it is jammed against a piece of furniture, it is considered to be more of a serious fracture, and there are noticeable symptoms that a break has occurred. These can include immediate bruising, and swelling, and the affected toe bone may protrude from the skin. If the break is very painful, a popping sound may be heard at the time of the injury. There is often a limited range of motion, and it can be difficult to walk. A proper diagnosis often consists of having an X-ray taken, and this is generally successful in determining how severe the break is. Many broken toes are treated by using the buddy taping method. This involves taping the broken toe to the toe next to it, which can provide the stability that is needed as the healing process occurs. If you have broken your toe, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible, so the toe can heal correctly. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Athlete’s foot, also referred to as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It is often seen between the toes first. The name, athlete’s foot, came into being because it was a common affliction of athletes with sweaty feet in tight-fitting shoes. The fungus likes warm, moist environments so wearing damp socks or coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as locker room floors and swimming pool areas, make for perfect hosts. Symptoms of athlete’s foot include dry skin on the side or bottom of the foot, a burning and stinging sensation, blisters, and itchiness. Athlete’s foot must be treated because of its potential of spreading the infection to other areas of the body and can cause pain. If you suspect you might have athlete’s foot, see a podiatrist who can confirm the diagnosis, determine what type of fungus caused it, and provide treatment.

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 Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center.  Our doctor 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 office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One side effect of diabetes is the increased chance of having sores or wounds on the feet that do not heal properly. If not attended to quickly, these sores can develop into what is known as a diabetic foot ulcer. Research shows that about 20 percent of diabetics have a foot ulcer, and half of the ulcers will become infected. One of the reasons foot ulcers develop is nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. The most common locations for ulcers are under the big toe and the ball of the foot, which are often difficult to examine. A foot ulcer that is not treated can spread to the bones or joints and it may develop into gangrene. Prevention of foot ulcers is essential for diabetics. Measures include keeping the feet clean and dry, checking for sores or cuts, and wearing appropriate shoes. If you have diabetes and have noticed numbness in the feet, please contact a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Heel spurs are small, bony growths caused by excessive calcium deposits forming on the heel of the foot. These can grow on the bottom of the heel or the heel bone where the plantar fascia ligament attaches the heel to the toes. This connective tissue keeps the foot in a comfortable arch position, but a heel spur can damage the fibrous tissue and it will not be able to perform its job. In addition to causing every step one takes to be painful, heel spurs can cause long-term foot problems. Trying to purchase shoes that accommodate heel spurs can be an overwhelming task, yet it is imperative to wear proper footwear. When choosing footwear to alleviate pain and prevent further damage from heel spurs, it is crucial to look for shoes with firm rearfoots or backs of shoes. These are less apt to bend during movement and thus provide more support to the heel. Shoes should also have additional cushioning and a flexible forefoot that bends and stretches easily with movement. If you suffer from heel spurs, consult with a podiatrist who can help you with treating this condition, as well as suggest the best footwear to help with pain and prevention.

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 Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 condition's 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, please feel free to contact our office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.