Arthritis can affect the feet by causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the joints. Because each foot contains many joints that support standing and walking, arthritis can make everyday movement more difficult. The condition may affect the toes, the middle of the foot, or the ankle, depending on the type of arthritis involved. Common symptoms include aching, swelling, and tenderness. Some people also notice joint stiffness, especially after periods of rest. As arthritis progresses, it may become harder to walk comfortably or participate in normal daily activities. Since several forms of arthritis can affect the feet, a professional evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Arthritis may gradually change the structure and function of the foot over time. Inflammation within the joints can reduce flexibility and make movement uncomfortable. As the joints become less stable, changes in the way a person walks may place added stress on other areas of the foot. This may also affect the ankles, knees, and hips. A thorough examination helps identify which joints are involved and how arthritis is affecting foot function. Understanding the source of symptoms allows a podiatrist to develop a treatment plan that supports better mobility and long-term foot health.

A podiatrist plays an important role in managing arthritic foot pain by evaluating joint function and identifying changes that may be contributing to discomfort. Treatment is tailored to each patient's condition and may focus on improving mobility, reducing joint stress, and preserving foot function. Early podiatry care can also help address changes before they become more severe or interfere with daily activities. Regular monitoring allows treatment to be adjusted as symptoms change over time. If arthritis pain or stiffness is affecting your feet or limiting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westlake Village, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

High heels are a popular footwear choice, but wearing them frequently can place added stress on the feet and ankles. As heel height increases, more body weight shifts toward the front of the foot, increasing pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot. This change in weight distribution may contribute to foot pain and affect the way a person walks. High heels may also place extra strain on the ankles, calves, and lower legs. Some individuals develop problems gradually, while others notice discomfort after only a short period of wear. Because repeated stress can affect the joints and soft tissues of the feet, persistent symptoms should be professionally evaluated. Early podiatry care may help identify developing problems before they interfere with everyday activities.

The effects of high heels vary from person to person. Many people experience aching, burning, or tenderness in the front of the foot after standing or walking. Others develop bunions, hammertoes, or calluses because of increased pressure on the toes. Wearing high heels for extended periods may also contribute to ankle instability and reduced balance. As these changes continue, normal movement can become less comfortable and everyday activities may become more difficult. Ongoing foot pain should not be ignored because untreated problems may worsen. Identifying the source of discomfort early can help protect foot health and support long-term mobility.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot problems related to footwear and abnormal pressure on the feet. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates foot structure, walking mechanics, and any symptoms affecting comfort or mobility. Treatment is individualized to reduce pain, improve foot function, and address conditions linked to wearing high heels. Early podiatry care may also help prevent additional stress on the feet and support healthier movement. If you are experiencing foot pain, toe discomfort, or difficulty walking after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Diagnosing and treating corns on the feet begins with understanding what they are and why they develop. Corns are small, well-defined areas of thickened, hardened skin that form after repeated rubbing, friction, or pressure. They usually appear on bony parts of the toes or between the toes. Unlike calluses, which cover broader areas, corns have a hard center that can press into the deeper tissue, and cause sharp pain while walking or standing. A podiatrist carefully examines the affected area to confirm that the problem is a corn and not another condition, like a wart. This evaluation also helps identify the source of the pressure, so treatment addresses the cause instead of only the thickened skin.

The location, shape, and appearance of the thickened skin provide valuable clues. The doctor also checks for toe alignment, areas of repeated pressure, and shoes that lack proper support. Soft corns usually develop between the toes where moisture increases friction. Hard corns usually form on dry skin over bony joints. Tiny seed corns can develop on the ball of the foot. Finding the exact cause helps guide treatment and lowers the chance that the corn will quickly return. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation need prompt evaluation, because even minor skin problems can become more serious.

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure and removing the thickened skin safely. A podiatrist can carefully trim away the hardened tissue using sterile instruments. This makes walking more comfortable. Padding can also protect the area from continued friction. Shoe recommendations or custom orthotics can improve foot alignment and reduce repeated pressure that causes corns to form. When severe corns continue to return because of a bone or toe problem, surgery may be suggested to correct the underlying cause. If you have a painful corn, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM of California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Neuropathy in the feet, also called peripheral neuropathy, happens when the nerves that carry messages between the feet and the brain become damaged. This can affect feeling, movement, or both. Symptoms often begin gradually and may include numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the feet. Some people also experience sharp pain or find it difficult to feel heat, cold, or injuries. Because sensation is reduced, cuts, blisters, or sores may go unnoticed and become more serious. Neuropathy is commonly linked to diabetes, but it can also have other causes. Early diagnosis is important because nerve damage may worsen if the underlying problem is not identified and managed.

A podiatrist plays an important role in protecting foot health when neuropathy is present. During an examination, the podiatrist checks sensation, circulation, and overall foot function. They also look for skin changes, pressure areas, or wounds that may have developed without being noticed. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. A podiatrist may recommend medical treatments, custom orthotics, or other measures to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas of the feet. Regular evaluations also help identify changes early and lower the risk of complications that could affect mobility.

Professional neuropathy treatment and podiatry care can help protect the feet and reduce the risk of long-term problems. Early care may improve comfort, support safer movement, and help prevent complications caused by reduced feeling in the feet. A podiatrist can also work with your healthcare team to monitor changes and provide treatment as your needs change. Prompt evaluation is especially important if symptoms continue to worsen or begin affecting your balance and walking. If you have numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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