Diabetic foot care is essential for managing the long-term health of diabetics patients. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, which often affects the feet. This causes a loss of sensation, making it difficult to notice injuries like cuts or blisters. Unnoticed injuries can quickly develop into serious infections if not treated. People with diabetes are also at a higher risk for developing foot ulcers, which may lead to more serious complications such as gangrene or in severe cases, limb loss. Regular foot inspections, maintaining good hygiene, and choosing appropriate footwear can help reduce these risks. A podiatrist plays a key role in this process by providing medical care, addressing wounds before they worsen, and offering guidance on how to prevent foot issues. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

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 Larry Slomowitz, 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 Westlake Village, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot swelling, or edema, is a common occurrence during pregnancy, often resulting from increased fluid retention and hormonal changes. As the body prepares for childbirth, the growing uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis, which can impede circulation and lead to swollen feet and ankles. To find relief, pregnant women should elevate their feet whenever possible, stay well-hydrated, and wear supportive footwear. Gentle foot stretches can also improve circulation, and simple exercises like ankle rotations and toe stretches help promote blood flow. Additionally, taking regular breaks to walk around can alleviate discomfort. If your feet have become swollen during your pregnancy and you are experiencing worsening discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Tingling feet, often described as a pins-and-needles sensation, can arise from several underlying conditions. Diabetes is a major contributor, as high blood sugar levels can lead to diabetic neuropathy, which affects nerve function in the extremities. Multiple sclerosis is another condition that may cause tingling due to nerve damage affecting communication between the brain and body. Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, resulting in narrowed arteries, can reduce blood flow to the feet, leading to abnormal sensations. Kidney failure may also result in neuropathy caused by the accumulation of toxins in the body, affecting nerve health. Additionally, alcoholic neuropathy is a consequence of excessive alcohol consumption, damaging peripheral nerves. If you have developed this sensation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Performing ankle exercises safely is essential to recovering mobility and strength, particularly after an injury or ankle discomfort. A podiatrist can guide you in selecting the appropriate exercises for your specific condition and ensure you perform them safely to avoid further injury. They can also monitor your progress and adjust your exercise plan to support healing and prevent future issues. Begin with gentle movements such as ankle bends, tilts, and heel raises, which can help improve flexibility. Gradually incorporate standing calf stretches to increase your range of motion. It is important to listen to your body and keep any discomfort within a zero to five pain range on a 10-point scale. If pain increases, you may need to reduce repetitions, slow down movements, or increase rest time between sets. Regular stretching and holding positions for 20 to 30 seconds can improve flexibility over time. If you have ankle problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition affecting the peripheral nervous system, which consists of the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. This system relays information between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, controlling sensations, movements, and autonomic functions. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when these nerves are damaged, leading to symptoms like tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness, often in the hands and feet. It can result from diabetes, infections, autoimmune diseases, toxins, or even trauma. Small fiber neuropathy specifically affects the small sensory fibers responsible for pain and temperature regulation. This type of neuropathy can cause burning or stabbing pain, tingling, or sensitivity to temperature. It often occurs in conditions like diabetes, but it can also be caused by other factors such as genetic disorders or autoimmune diseases. If you are feeling symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an early diagnosis and management to prevent worsening of symptoms and nerve damage.

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.