Items filtered by date: November 2025

Toenail fungus affects the nails and surrounding tissue, often beginning as a small white or yellow spot that gradually spreads. Symptoms may include thickened nails, discoloration, brittleness, crumbling edges, or an unpleasant odor. Causes include exposure to fungal organisms in warm and moist environments, such as locker rooms or tight footwear. Risk increases for older adults, people with sweaty feet, those with weakened circulation, and individuals who frequently walk barefoot in public areas. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, provide advanced treatments, trim damaged nails, and offer guidance to prevent future problems. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

Blisters on the feet develop when repeated friction or pressure causes the outer layer of skin to separate from the underlying layers, allowing fluid to collect in the space between. This clear fluid cushions the damaged tissue and protects it as it heals. Wearing shoes that are too tight or lack adequate support can cause blisters on the toes, heels, or sides of the feet. Excess moisture, long-distance walking, and high-friction activities can also contribute. Sometimes, blisters form due to burns, allergic reactions, or infections that affect the skin on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, drain painful or infected blisters under sterile conditions, and recommend protective footwear or custom padding to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful or infected blister on your foot, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and safe treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Diabetic offloading devices are designed to reduce pressure on areas of the feet that are vulnerable to ulcers, especially the heels, toes, and forefoot. These devices include specialized boots, casts, and orthotic inserts that redistribute weight away from high-pressure points, allowing wounds to heal more effectively. A benefit is that they protect sensitive areas from repetitive stress and friction, which lowers the risk of infections that can lead to limb loss. They also encourage proper alignment, helping reduce strain on surrounding joints and soft tissue. However, some off-loading devices can have drawbacks, such as limited mobility, difficulty fitting into regular shoes, or discomfort, if not properly adjusted. Some people may also find them bulky, which affects daily activities. A podiatrist can determine the most appropriate device, monitor its effectiveness, and adjust it as needed to prevent further complications. If you have diabetes and have developed foot pain, t is strongly  suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 pain from cycling is often linked to how the foot interacts with the shoe, pedal, and cleat system, and several issues may contribute. Shoes that are too tight or have a narrow toe box can compress the toes and restrict blood flow. Also, thick socks or bulky insoles can further crowd the foot inside the shoe. Cleat placement is another major cause of foot pain from cycling. Cleats positioned too far forward place excess pressure on the ball of the foot and increase strain on the small stabilizing muscles. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or pain across the forefoot. Some cyclists also develop discomfort on the outside of the foot, near the fifth metatarsal. This is especially true when the natural forefoot position tilts slightly inward, causing uneven weight distribution. Persistent foot pain from cycling may require professional evaluation to prevent worsening of symptoms. If you are experiencing foot pain after cycling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Larry Slomowitz, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.