Finding the right fit for hiking boots is essential for comfort and injury prevention on the trail. Start by checking the length to ensure there is enough room in the toe box without crowding. The width should feel secure without squeezing the sides of the foot. The heel should stay in place without slipping, which helps prevent blisters and instability. Small fit adjustments, such as lacing techniques and supportive socks, can improve overall comfort. Poorly fitted boots can increase risk of foot pain, blisters, and strain during long hikes. A podiatrist can evaluate foot shape, recommend proper footwear, and provide guidance for better support. If you have experienced foot or ankle pain from wearing hiking boots, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment and offer additional guidance on choosing hiking boots that fit correctly.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

Persistent ankle pain can sometimes point to arthritis, a condition that affects the joints and limits smooth movement. Arthritis develops when the protective tissue between bones wears down or when the body’s immune system attacks joint tissue. This can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced motion in the joint. Types of pain that affect the ankle include osteoarthritis, which is linked to joint wear over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation in both ankles. Gout is another form, caused by crystal buildup in the joint that leads to sudden, intense pain. A podiatrist can examine the ankle and review imaging studies to identify the cause. Treatment plans include reducing joint stress, certain medications, and protecting the joint from further damage. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

Turf toe is an injury at the base of the big toe joint that happens when the toe bends too far upward. Common among football players, dancers, and other athletes, turf toe often occurs during running, jumping, or quick direction changes. These actions can strain or tear the ligaments and soft tissue surrounding the joint. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. Stiffness and trouble pushing off while walking are other signs. A podiatrist can examine the joint and order X-rays or other imaging tests to help determine the severity of the sprain. Treatment includes taping, bracing and wearing stiff-soled shoes. In some cases, a walking boot may be prescribed to protect the toe while it heals. Gentle exercises can also aid in healing and improve strength. These include toe curls, towel scrunches, and marble pick-ups to help restore movement and support. If you have symptoms of turf toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to crystal formation in the joints. This condition most commonly affects the big toe, but can also affect other parts of the feet and ankles. Gout often begins suddenly with intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. The joint may appear shiny and feel extremely tender, making even light pressure from bedding uncomfortable. Flare-ups can come on quickly, often at night, and may limit walking or standing. Contributing factors include diet, dehydration, certain medications, and underlying health conditions that affect how uric acid is processed. A podiatrist can recognize the signs of gout and may coordinate care to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically focuses on reducing inflammation and managing pain, along with long-term strategies to lower uric acid levels. Guidance may include lifestyle adjustments and preventive care to reduce future flare-ups. If you suspect you have gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM from California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.