Items filtered by date: August 2022

Onychomycosis, otherwise known as toenail fungus, is an infection of the toenails. This type of fungus is found in moist environments, consisting of public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. The fungus enters the body through small cracks in the skin on the feet, and it is wise to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas. It is a common ailment, and generally causes no pain, although it can appear to be unsightly. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition often include yellowed nails that have become thick and brittle, and may begin to crumble. It may be more prevalent among the older population, and can be difficult to treat. Research has shown that there may be a correlation between toenail fungus and reduced blood flow, and it may help to increase circulation as part of the antidote for toenail fungus. This can be improved by consuming a healthy diet that is made up of low-fat and plant based foods, which may help overall health. Toenail fungus can be a stubborn condition, and can gradually worsen if left untreated. It is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist if you are afflicted with this ailment who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact James Pak, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

The medical condition known as flat feet exists as a result of little or no arch in the foot. It is easy to notice and can be seen by standing on the floor with the entire foot lying flat. It can be referred to as pes planus, or fallen arches, and most babies are born with this condition. It generally disappears as most arches are fully developed by the teenage years. There is a small percentage of patients who have flat feet throughout adulthood that may induce pain and discomfort. There are various types, and flexible flat feet are the most common. It is evident when the arch is visible as the foot is lifted. Additionally, a tight Achilles tendon may be a source of flat feet and often affects the arch. The heel can lift sooner than it should while walking and running, and it can cause pain and discomfort. If a foot injury occurs and the tendon that connects the inside of the ankle to the calf muscle becomes swollen or torn, the arch can be affected, possibly resulting in flat feet. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe custom-made orthotics, which may help to strengthen the area where the arch normally is.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact James Pak, DPM from California. 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 Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis affects individuals across the country, causing them heel and foot pain. Basketball players, both professional and recreational, are no exception. There are many important ways in which playing basketball can put an individual at risk of developing a condition like plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, the band of tissue running from the heel to the base of the toes, becomes inflamed in response to repeated pressure on the arch of the foot. Individuals with this condition might feel sharp, stabbing pains when beginning to put weight on their feet after prolonged periods of rest. What puts some basketball players at risk is the unique physical demands of the sport. Namely, throughout a game, a basketball player must constantly accelerate and decelerate rapidly. This can cause strain on the feet. Basketball players must also frequently jump to high heights, landing on hard floor surfaces. Basketball also requires a large amount of running, as players can run up and down the court a minimum of 50 times during one game. These game-specific demands on an athlete can ultimately cause them to exert a great degree of pressure on their feet, which might lead to plantar fasciitis. If you are a basketball player, consider contacting a podiatrist to learn more about this condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact James Pak, DPM  from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Although having smelly feet is not always necessarily cause for serious concern, bad-smelling feet can be bothersome. If your child is complaining about their feet producing a foul odor, there are several things that you need to be aware of. The odor that is being emitted from your child’s feet is caused by bacteria. After your child spends a whole day sweating in a pair of sneakers, for instance, that sweat facilitates the multiplication of bacteria. If your child is not wearing socks, typically this only exacerbates the extent to which the bacteria can grow in your child’s shoes. In certain cases, your child’s shoes might even be home to a type of bacteria named Kyetococcus sedentarius. This bacteria can produce especially foul odors because they release volatile sulfur compounds. If you are concerned about your child’s smelly feet, be sure that they wash their feet and wear a new, clean pair of socks every day and alternate shoes regularly, especially if they get wet or sweaty. See a podiatrist for more ways in which you can protect the health of your child’s feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact James Pak, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

A common condition that affects the feet is known as gout. It falls into the arthritis category, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. It develops as a result of elevated uric acid levels in the blood, and this can cause crystals to form in the joints of the big toe, as well as other joints. Causes are varied, including being overweight, eating excessive red meat and shellfish, and consuming drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. Additionally, existing medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, diabetes, and poor kidney function may lead to developing gout. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition may include swelling, intense pain, redness, and the affected area may feel hot when touched. Gout is often diagnosed during a flare up, and a needle may be inserted into the affected joint that can provide a sample of the crystals. Effective prevention strategies of gout can consist of eating a healthy diet, getting and staying physically active, and managing weight. If you have gout attacks, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with correct treatment and preventive techniques.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact James Pak, DPM from California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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