Poor circulation in the feet can be a distressing issue that affects both your comfort and overall health. Several factors can contribute to this condition. One primary cause is atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in the arteries that restricts blood flow. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy and arterial damage, resulting in circulatory problems. Additionally, smoking damages blood vessels, reducing circulation. Peripheral artery disease narrows the arteries, often causing discomfort. Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis, can obstruct blood flow. Symptoms of poor circulation in the feet include cold feet, numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps. Skin discoloration, slow wound healing, and the development of leg ulcers are also common signs.  Addressing the underlying causes and adopting a healthier lifestyle can improve circulation and overall well-being. Poor circulation is a serious condition that can affect the feet. If you suffer from this condition, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment options and relief.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

Diabetic foot complications can be debilitating, but choosing the appropriate footwear can help to manage the symptoms. Diabetic shoes are specially designed with extra depth and a roomy toe box to accommodate custom orthotics or insoles. These shoes are typically made from soft, breathable materials to minimize friction and pressure points, as well as reduce the risk of blisters, calluses, and ulcers. Diabetic shoes often feature seamless interiors and come with supportive arches and cushioned insoles for added comfort. Custom orthotics, prescribed by a podiatrist, are designed to provide personalized support for your unique foot structure and gait. These can be placed inside your regular shoes or diabetic shoes, offering stability, shock absorption, and pressure relief where needed. Extra-wide shoes are a good choice, as they offer ample room for the feet without causing pressure or constriction. Shoes with adjustable closures, such as Velcro straps or laces, can provide a secure fit without excessive tightness. Many people choose to wear diabetic socks, which are generally made from moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry and comfortable. They typically have seamless construction to minimize friction and reduce the risk of blisters and ulcers. If you have foot conditions caused by diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can monitor and manage any problems that may occur.

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.

Toe defects can be present at birth, known as congenital anomalies. These can range from incomplete formation to extra toes. One cause could be amniotic band syndrome, where strands from the amniotic sac entangle around the fetus, restricting growth. Polydactyly refers to toes, which can be fully functional or just a flesh nub. Syndactyly involves webbing or fusion of toes. In simple cases, only soft tissues are fused, but in complex cases, bones are also fused. These defects can also be part of genetic syndromes such as Apert syndrome. Diagnosis often involves ultrasounds before birth and X-rays after birth. Genetic testing may also be done, particularly if other family members have similar issues or a genetic syndrome is suspected. Treatment usually involves surgery to correct the defect or remove extra digits. Prosthetics may be used for missing toes. If your child has been born with extra toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for the best treatment for your child that will help ensure growing up with little to no impact on their mobility.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.

Foot pain can be a significant discomfort that affects people of all ages and lifestyles. It is essential to understand that various factors can contribute to this common ailment. One common culprit is wearing improper footwear. Ill-fitting shoes or those lacking proper arch support can lead to a range of foot problems, ranging from bunions to plantar fasciitis. Overuse and excessive physical activity can also strain the feet, leading to pain. Athletes, in particular, are susceptible to conditions such as stress fractures and Achilles tendonitis due to repetitive movements. Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, can result in chronic foot pain, as they affect joint health and circulation. Additionally, age related changes, which can include reduced fat padding in the feet, may lead to discomfort, especially while walking or standing for extended periods. Addressing foot pain often requires a multifaceted approach, including wearing proper footwear, rest, and sometimes medical intervention. By recognizing the various causes, individuals can take proactive steps to alleviate foot pain and maintain healthy, pain-free feet. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the cause is, and offer treatment methods that are right for you. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, can be a source of persistent discomfort and pain for many individuals. This common condition occurs when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. Understanding the root causes of flat feet pain is the first step toward finding effective solutions. One primary cause of flat feet pain is genetics. If you have a family history of flat feet, you are more likely to develop them. Additionally, injuries or overuse can contribute to the development of flat feet over time. Obesity and pregnancy can also put excess strain on the arches, exacerbating the condition. The good news is that flat feet pain can often be managed and relieved. Wearing footwear with proper arch support can significantly reduce discomfort. Stretching and strengthening exercises may help improve foot and leg muscle function, offering relief from pain associated with flat feet. In more severe cases, medical intervention or surgery may be considered. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who may prescribe custom orthotic inserts, which can provide tailored support.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Andrew Katz, DPM from Allcare Foothealth Center. 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 Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can have a profound impact on joints in the body, including the toes. The two forms of arthritis that affect the toes are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is often a result of wear and tear on the joints, where the protective cartilage at the ends of bones gradually deteriorates. When this occurs in the toes, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. Walking and performing everyday tasks can become difficult. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, including those in the toes. This autoimmune response triggers inflammation and swelling, and can even lead to deformities in the affected toes. Over time, the toe joints may suffer significant damage, further diminishing their functionality. This may cause chronic pain and mobility issues that can affect overall foot health. Basic activities such as walking, standing, or even wearing certain types of shoes can become challenging and painful. To address these issues effectively, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This foot doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis, create a personalized treatment plan, and offer advice on managing symptoms. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Palmdale, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Losing a limb, particularly a lower extremity, is one of the greatest risks derived from diabetic foot ulcers. Preventing such a drastic outcome starts with undergoing an annual foot screening for those who have lost protective sensation in their feet. Next, experts believe that simple self-care techniques can allow patients to assume a certain amount of responsibility for their foot health. Knowledge of proper foot care and daily habits can go a long way in preserving limb health. This includes daily self-inspection. Regular and thorough self-examinations are critical for identifying early signs of foot injuries, calluses, or nail problems. By detecting issues such as blisters, redness, cracked skin, swelling, or abnormalities in their early stages, patients can prevent these problems from progressing into more severe conditions. Further, ill-fitting shoes that can make diabetic foot conditions worse include narrow-toed shoes, high heels, flip flops, or shoes that are too loose or tight. Timely intervention can help to prevent these issues from escalating into dire complications. If you are at risk for diabetic ulcers, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your medical team.

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

The ankle is fortified by ligaments that serve to prevent bone displacement. An ankle sprain occurs when these ligaments stretch or tear beyond their normal range. The severity of sprains ranges from minor stretching to partial ligament tears, and finally complete ligament ruptures. Symptoms of ankle sprains include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and sometimes numbness. While mild sprains usually resolve within weeks, moderate to severe cases may persist for up to a year. Ankle sprains frequently stem from physical activities or uneven surfaces, particularly affecting individuals with weak muscles or high arches. Diagnosis requires a podiatrist's examination and may include X-rays or MRI scans to assess ligament damage. Higher-grade sprains may call for immobilization with casts, boots, or braces, followed by stretching and strengthening exercises. Living with a sprained ankle must be taken seriously to avoid reinjuring the joint because this can easily evolve into a chronic condition. For help dealing with ankle sprains, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.