Items filtered by date: April 2024

Dactylitis, commonly known as hand-foot syndrome, and associated with sickle cell disease, or SCD, manifests as painful swelling and inflammation in the fingers and toes, primarily affecting children. The condition arises from obstructed blood flow due to sickle-shaped red blood cells, which leads to tissue damage and discomfort. Treatment focuses on managing SCD symptoms, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory measures. Podiatrists, specializing in foot health, play a vital role in dactylitis management. They diagnose the condition, implement tailored treatment plans, and offer preventive care strategies. Podiatrists educate patients and families on foot hygiene and hydration, minimizing the risk of flare-ups. Regular monitoring by podiatrists ensures early intervention and prevents long-term complications, improving overall quality of life for individuals affected by dactylitis. If your child suffers from dactylitis, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for care.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Custom orthotics offer significant benefits in managing bunions, hammertoes, and Achilles tendinosis by controlling pain and slowing the progression of deformities. Specifically designed to fit the unique contours of an individual's foot, these orthotic devices provide support and stability, redistributing pressure away from problem areas. For bunions, orthotics can alleviate discomfort by cushioning the joint and preventing further misalignment. In the case of hammertoes, custom orthotics help stabilize flexible deformities, promoting proper alignment and relieving pressure on the affected toes. Additionally, orthotics can address Achilles tendinosis by reducing strain on the tendon and promoting optimal foot positioning during movement. By providing support and alignment, custom orthotics not only manage symptoms but also help prevent the worsening of these conditions, allowing individuals to maintain an active lifestyle with reduced pain and improved function. If you have foot pain from one of the above-mentioned conditions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss how custom-made orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Chuc Dang, 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 Westminster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. Bunions often result from a combination of genetic factors, wearing improper footwear, and structural issues in the foot. As the bunion develops, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and difficulty with shoe wear. In severe cases, complications such as bursitis, hammertoes, or even arthritis may arise due to the altered foot mechanics. If you have a bunion that is causing significant discomfort and interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you various treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Maintaining healthy feet is essential for overall well-being. An easy foot care routine combines at-home care with professional guidance from a podiatrist. Start with regular at-home pedicures, soaking feet in warm water with Epsom salts to soften skin, followed by gentle exfoliation and moisturizing to prevent dryness and cracking. Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails and file them smooth. Seeing a podiatrist is equally important for comprehensive foot health. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can detect early signs of issues like bunions, corns, or fungal infections. A podiatrist can also provide personalized advice on proper footwear, foot exercises, and preventive measures. If you want to invest time into taking proper care of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for thorough foot maintenance and early intervention for any underlying conditions.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Stretching the feet regularly can play a significant role in preventing foot and ankle problems and maintaining overall foot health. Targeted stretches such as toe splays, Achilles stretches, and big toe stretches help improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce tension in the feet and ankles. Toe splays involve spreading the toes apart to alleviate tightness and improve mobility. Achilles stretches target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, enhancing the range of motion and reducing strain on the heel. Big toe stretches help maintain flexibility in the joint, promoting proper gait mechanics and preventing conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can offer valuable guidance on appropriate stretching techniques and recommend a personalized stretching routine based on individual needs and existing foot issues.  Additionally, podiatrists can assess biomechanical imbalances and provide custom orthotics or other interventions to complement stretching exercises and optimize foot health. If you would like to learn more about maintaining good foot and ankle health, including stretching, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this further.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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