Foot surgery can sometimes be used as a last resort option to address serious problems in the feet that could not be solved by more conservative treatment plans. Hammertoe is one condition that might be able to be resolved by a surgical procedure. Hammertoe primarily affects the second, third, and fourth toes of the feet, causing the toe joints to become frozen in a flexed position. As a result, the toe sticks up at the middle point and appears like a hammer. Surgery might be a viable way to straighten the joint out, and both adults and children might potentially benefit from undergoing a surgical procedure. One type of procedure for hammertoe is known as a tendon transfer whereby tendons in the toes are transferred from the bottom of the toes to the top to help straighten out the joint. Another kind of procedure is called a joint resection. Through this surgery, the end of the bone at the affected joint is effectively taken out of place. Pins are then temporarily put in their place to help the joint straighten out to its natural shape. If you have a hammertoe, consult with a podiatrist to see what options you might have at your disposal to address the issue.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Andrew Katz, DPM of Allcare Foothealth Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, is a common and unsightly condition that negatively impacts the wellness of your feet. Simply put, this condition occurs when the skin surrounding the heel and bottom of the feet becomes exceedingly dry. This skin can crack, causing fissures. In many cases, this condition is harmless. However, cracked heels can be unattractive and, in severe cases, might lead to infection and swelling. If you are diabetic, you stand at an increased risk of suffering from cracked heels. This is because diabetes can make your feet dry and deprive the skin of necessary nutrients, making cracked heels more likely. Additionally, in some cases, diabetes can damage the nerves present in one’s feet, which can prevent sweat glands in the feet from releasing sweat. The deprivation of sweat can reduce the moisture in the feet, increasing the probability of the onset of cracked heels. Therefore, while cracked heels are not necessarily a sign of diabetes, diabetics can face an increased risk of suffering from this affliction. If you are a diabetic and want to protect yourself from cracked heels, consider contacting a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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 Achilles tendon is a large band of tissue which attaches the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone. It is engaged while walking, running, jumping, and elevating on the toes. Athletes, and especially runners, can aggravate this tendon from overuse, which may cause it to become thickened and inflamed. This is known as Achilles tendonitis. Pain from Achilles tendonitis is usually felt above the heel or in the back of the lower leg. A podiatrist can examine you if you are experiencing this type of pain, which may intensify after sprinting, stair climbing or running for a long period of time. They may suggest certain strengthening and stretching exercises, along with resting the leg and icing the affected area, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help with the pain. Long-term relief may include using custom orthotics and special types of footwear to offload pressure on the affected area. For more information or to receive treatment for Achilles tendon, make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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

Ankle-foot-orthoses (AFO) are supportive devices, or braces, that help a person with lower limb, ankle, or foot disability. AFOs function mainly to prevent deformity, increase mobility, reduce pain, and protect and support a healing injury. They can be custom made for children as well as adults to protect the foot, ankle, and leg, finishing at the knee. They can be made hinged to bend at the ankle, or solid with no ankle movement. There are several types of AFOs that are prescribed based on the precise needs of the wearer. Factors include length of time it will be worn, amount of lateral stability needed, and how the device fits into shoes. For more detailed information on ankle-foot-orthoses, please consult a podiatrist, who can help determine which AFO is best for you. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.