Items filtered by date: December 2024

Caring for diabetic feet is essential to avoid complications like infections or ulcers. Begin by inspecting your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or changes in color, especially if you have reduced sensation due to neuropathy. Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap, ensuring thorough drying, particularly between toes. Moisturize to prevent cracking, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to minimize infection risk. Wear well-fitting, protective shoes and socks designed for diabetic patients to reduce pressure and prevent injuries. Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails. Control blood sugar levels to enhance circulation and promote healing. Avoid walking barefoot, even at home, to prevent unnoticed injuries. If you have diabetes and foot issues arise or are in need of  preventive guidance, it is suggested that you schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist. This foot specialist can assess your foot health, offer personalized advice, and help you maintain optimal care.

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 James Pak, DPM from California. 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 Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen ankles are a common issue that can arise from various causes, including poor circulation, injury, or fluid retention. Conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease can lead to fluid buildup in the lower extremities, causing swelling. Prolonged standing or sitting, especially during long flights or road trips, can also contribute to ankle swelling. Injury, such as sprains or fractures, often results in swelling as the body reacts to trauma. To relieve swollen ankles, elevating the feet can help reduce fluid accumulation. Applying cold compresses can reduce swelling and provide pain relief. Wearing compression socks and staying active by walking or moving the feet regularly can improve circulation. Reducing salt intake and staying hydrated also helps prevent fluid retention. If you have swollen feet and ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and management solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact James Pak, DPM of California. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cricket might seem like a game with minimal risk of injuries, but it can take a toll on players’ bodies, especially their feet. Bowlers and batters experience different stresses based on their roles and techniques. Pace bowlers, known for their high-speed deliveries, are more likely to have pronounced foot posture, where the foot rolls inward on impact. This results from the intense forces generated during their run-up and landing. Spin bowlers, who rely on slower, spinning deliveries, more often display supinated foot posture, where the foot rolls outward. This is due to the twisting and pivoting movements needed to spin the ball effectively. Batters, who focus on quick, agile footwork to face the ball, may develop imbalances in foot posture due to repeated pressure on the front of the foot and uneven weight distribution. If you play cricket and foot pain or injuries arise, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

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 James Pak, DPM from California. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the soles of the feet, often causing dry, itchy, and thickened skin. Unlike the classic form of athlete’s foot, which typically appears between the toes, or a type that causes blisters on the sole of the foot, moccasin-type covers the bottom and sides of the foot, resembling the fit of a moccasin. This type can cause scaling, cracking, and even a rough texture that may extend to the heels. Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is stubborn and can be difficult to treat, as the fungus may penetrate deeper skin layers. People with sweaty feet, compromised immune systems, or a history of foot infections are at higher risk. Treatment often involves topical antifungal creams or, in persistent cases, oral antifungals. To prevent recurrence, keeping feet clean, dry, and wearing breathable shoes is essential. If you have developed what seems to be a fungal infection on your feet, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

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 James Pak, DPM from California. Our doctor 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 office located in Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Joint pain in the feet is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. RA typically affects both feet and hands, often starting in the smaller joints. The pain is usually accompanied by swelling, stiffness, and redness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. As the disease progresses, the inflammation can damage the cartilage and bones in the feet, leading to deformities and difficulty walking. In some cases, the pain can become chronic, limiting mobility and affecting daily activities. Early detection and treatment of RA are vital in managing symptoms and preventing further joint damage. Medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. If you experience persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to determine if RA or another condition may be the cause.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact James Pak, DPM of California. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.