Items filtered by date: June 2024

Foot puncture wounds are injuries where a sharp object pierces the skin and underlying tissues of the foot. These wounds can occur from stepping on nails, glass, or other sharp objects. Proper diagnosis involves a physical examination by a podiatrist, often accompanied by imaging tests like X-rays to assess the depth and presence of foreign objects. Symptoms of a foot puncture wound include pain, swelling, redness, and bleeding at the site of injury. If the wound becomes infected, additional symptoms such as warmth, pus, and increased pain may develop. Timely medical attention is vital to clean the wound thoroughly, prevent infection, and ensure proper healing. If you have stepped on a sharp object and have developed a foot wound, it is suggested that you seek prompt medical treatment from a podiatrist who can effectively manage this condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with James Pak, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often causing pain and discomfort, especially when walking or standing for long periods. They typically form in response to strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot. Heel spurs are commonly associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or repetitive stress injuries. Factors such as obesity, wearing unsupportive shoes, and having high arches or flat feet can also contribute to the development of heel spurs. Symptoms may include sharp pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after a long period of rest. There are numerous options when it comes to treating or preventing the formation of heel spurs. Rest, stretching exercises, orthotic inserts, injections, or surgery in more severe cases may be necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of heel spurs, it is suggested you seek professional evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist to ensure your pain is alleviated and your health is protected.

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 James Pak, DPM from California. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Anaheim, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

An ankle-foot orthosis, or AFO, is a brace designed to support the ankle and foot, improving stability and alignment. It works by restricting movement in specific directions, thereby aiding in mobility and reducing the risk of injury. AFOs are commonly prescribed for individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or severe ankle arthritis. They are also used for drop foot, where the individual has difficulty lifting the front part of the foot. Diagnosing the need for an AFO involves a thorough examination by a podiatrist, including medical history, physical assessment, and sometimes imaging studies to understand the underlying condition and its severity. There are various types of AFOs, including rigid AFOs for maximum support, articulated AFOs allowing controlled movement, and dynamic AFOs designed for more natural movement. If you suffer from ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment. If an AFO will help you, this foot doctor can provide personalized advice and a proper fitting.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact James Pak, DPM from California. 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 contact our office located in Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sesamoiditis, a condition caused by inflammation of the sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint, can pose significant discomfort and mobility challenges. These small, pea-sized bones play a vital role in weight-bearing and stabilizing the foot during activities like walking and running. When subjected to excessive pressure or repetitive stress, the sesamoid bones may become inflamed, leading to symptoms such as sharp or dull pain beneath the big toe joint, and swelling. Sesamoiditis typically manifests as a gradual onset of pain, worsening with activity and improving with rest. Activities that involve pushing off the toes, such as jumping or running, may worsen symptoms. Diagnosis of sesamoiditis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a podiatrist, including a physical examination and possibly imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. If you have pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with effective treatment solutions.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact James Pak, DPM of California. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.