Diabetes affects how the body uses blood sugar. When blood glucose remains too high, it can affect nerves, blood vessels, and the immune system. These changes can make foot wounds harder to notice and slower to heal. Symptoms of diabetes may include increased thirst, frequent urination, or slow-healing cuts. Regular health checks remain important for everyone.

Diabetes can affect wound healing in several ways. High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing numbness that makes a cut or blister difficult to feel. Reduced circulation can limit the oxygen and nutrients needed for tissue repair. Diabetes can also weaken the immune response, making it harder for the body to fight infection. When these problems occur together, a small wound can take longer to heal and may spread into surrounding tissue or even bone.

Insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells where it can be used. When insulin is not produced adequately or the body does not use it effectively, blood sugar can rise. Poor blood sugar control can increase the risk of wound complications. A podiatrist can examine a foot wound, assess circulation and sensation, and check for infection. Treatment may include cleaning and dressing the wound, reducing pressure, and recommending protective footwear.

Protecting a diabetic foot wound requires careful attention. Keep the wound clean and covered as directed, and avoid walking barefoot. Check your feet regularly for redness, swelling, or new skin damage. Seek prompt care if a wound becomes painful, changes appearance, or does not improve. Early podiatric treatment can help reduce complications and support healing. If you have diabetes and have a foot wound, it 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 Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma involves a thickening of tissue around a small nerve that leads toward the toes. Despite its name, it is not a true nerve tumor. The problem most often develops between the third and fourth toes, although it can also occur between the second and third toes. Nerve compression is believed to play an important role in its development. Irritation, trauma, or excessive pressure may also contribute. Morton’s neuroma can cause persistent discomfort in the ball of the foot and may interfere with walking or other weight-bearing activities.

Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, or numbness that may extend into the toes. Some people describe feeling as though they are walking on a small pebble. Pain may become more noticeable during activities that place pressure on the front of the foot. High-heeled or narrow shoes can aggravate symptoms because they place additional pressure around the toes and affected nerves. Morton’s neuroma usually does not cause a visible lump or skin discoloration. Because other foot problems can produce similar pain, determining the exact source of discomfort is important.

A podiatrist can evaluate forefoot pain by reviewing symptoms and examining the affected area. The examination may include checking for tender pressure points, toe position, and joint movement. Imaging can sometimes help rule out other causes. X-rays may be used to check for arthritis or a stress fracture, while ultrasound can identify abnormalities associated with Morton’s neuroma. Treatment depends on the severity and duration of symptoms. Medical options may include orthotics or corticosteroid injections to reduce pressure or inflammation. If symptoms continue despite non-surgical care, surgery may be considered to release tissue around the nerve or remove the affected portion. If persistent pain, burning, or tingling develops in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM of Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can develop when fungi grow in warm, moist environments, including inside damp shoes and socks. The infection commonly begins between the toes but can spread to other areas of the foot. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another through contact with contaminated surfaces, shoes, and floors. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection. They can include an itchy rash, scaling skin, or blisters. Some people develop dry skin across the soles and sides of the feet. The infection can affect one foot or both feet.

A podiatrist can examine the skin of the feet and determine whether the symptoms are consistent with athlete’s foot. Other skin conditions can cause similar signs, so an accurate diagnosis is important. The location and appearance of the rash can provide useful information during the examination. A podiatrist can also determine whether the infection has caused additional skin problems. In some cases, athlete’s foot can become more painful, swollen, or red. Open sores, blisters, or drainage can also develop when another infection affects the area. Professional evaluation can help identify these changes and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment for athlete’s foot focuses on clearing the fungal infection and preventing it from causing further skin problems. A podiatrist can recommend an appropriate antifungal treatment based on the severity and location of the infection. Prescription medication can be considered when a stronger treatment is appropriate. A podiatrist can also monitor the skin and determine whether the infection is responding to treatment. Prompt evaluation is especially important when symptoms are painful, spreading, or interfering with daily activities. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions,  which may include prescribed medication. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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 and ankle needs.

Peroneal tendonitis is inflammation or irritation of the peroneal tendons along the outer side of the ankle. These tendons connect muscles in the lower leg to bones in the foot and help stabilize the ankle during activity. Symptoms can include outer ankle pain, tenderness, and difficulty moving. Some people notice weakness in the ankle or a burning sensation. Symptoms may become more noticeable after running, hiking, or activities that repeatedly stress the ankle. These structures support ankle balance.

Risk factors for peroneal tendonitis can include repetitive ankle motion, especially when activity increases too quickly. Running on uneven surfaces can place extra strain on the tendons. Ankle injuries, including sprains, may irritate these structures. Wearing poor footwear can contribute by providing inadequate support. Additionally, people with foot alignment concerns may experience additional stress because tendons work harder. Without care, continued irritation can make everyday movement uncomfortable. A history of repeated ankle sprains can also raise risk.

A podiatrist begins treatment by examining the ankle and reviewing symptoms and previous injuries. The foot and ankle may be checked for tenderness, swelling, and weakness. Imaging tests may be recommended to rule out another injury. Treatment can include reducing aggravating activities and using supportive footwear or bracing. A podiatrist may also recommend medication and provide guidance for a gradual return to activity. Severe tendon damage may require advanced treatment.

Paying attention to outer ankle pain can often help prevent worsening. Resting from activities that trigger symptoms can give irritated tendons time to recover. Wearing supportive shoes may reduce strain. Seek professional care if swelling, weakness, or burning persists, especially if pain interferes with walking. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat peroneal tendonitis. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.