Foot fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection caused by fungal organisms that thrive in warm and moist environments. It can affect the skin of the feet as well as the toenails. Athlete’s foot often causes itching, redness, peeling, and cracking between the toes or on the soles. Subungual onychomycosis develops beneath the nail and may lead to thickening, discoloration, and crumbling of the nail plate. White superficial onychomycosis appears as white patches on the surface of the nail. Additionally, candida infections may cause swelling, tenderness, and nail changes. Without treatment, fungal infections can spread and worsen. If you have signs of foot or toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose fungal conditions, and offer effective treatment options. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Arkady Kaplansky, 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet often occur with additional symptoms that help clarify what is happening. Bruising or unexplained bleeding may suggest injury or vascular concerns. A burning sensation can point to nerve irritation or inflammation. Changes in pulse strength, including a weak or absent pulse, may signal circulation problems. Some people notice difficulty moving the foot, ankle, or toes, along with stiffness or pain that limits range of motion. Swelling can also make standing or walking uncomfortable or unstable. Itching may occur as skin stretches, while lumps or nodules can form around joints or soft tissue. These combined signs provide important diagnostic clues. A podiatrist evaluates circulation, nerve response, joint function, and skin health to determine the cause. When swelling appears alongside these changes, it is suggested that prompt evaluation be sought by a podiatrist to help guide appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Arkady Kaplansky, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Blisters on the feet develop when repeated friction, pressure, or moisture damages the outer layers of skin. Common risk factors include poorly fitting shoes, stiff seams, increased walking or running volume, and sudden changes in activity. Excess moisture from sweating can soften skin, making it vulnerable to breakdown, while dry skin may crack and shear. Foot shape concerns like bunions, hammertoes, or prominent bones can increase pressure points, and gait issues can cause uneven rubbing in specific areas. Medical factors also play a role, including diabetes, circulation concerns, and reduced sensation, which can allow skin damage to progress unnoticed. A podiatrist can evaluate footwear fit, foot structure, and walking mechanics, address underlying deformities, and manage skin health. For help dealing with foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Arkady Kaplansky, 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot arthritis can cause stiffness, aching, and reduced mobility, especially after rest or long periods of standing. Gentle exercises help keep joints moving, support circulation, and maintain strength without increasing stress. Ankle circles are useful for improving range of motion and easing stiffness. Toe stretches, performed by gently pulling the toes back and then curling them downward, help maintain flexibility in the forefoot. Heel raises strengthen the muscles that support the foot and ankle and can improve stability when walking. Rolling the sole of the foot over a small ball or frozen water bottle may also reduce soreness and tension. Exercises should be done slowly and within a comfortable range. A podiatrist can recommend additional specific movements based on the type and severity of arthritis. If you suffer from foot arthritis, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Arkady Kaplansky, DPM from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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