Tophi are firm deposits that develop beneath the skin when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, often as a complication of long-standing gout. In the feet, tophi may develop around the toes, ankles, or Achilles tendon, creating swollen lumps that can interfere with movement, and cause pain if inflamed. Over time, untreated tophi can damage cartilage, tendons, and other soft tissues, making it difficult to walk comfortably and leading to stiffness or deformity. In some cases, the skin may become stretched and break open, leaking chalky material made of uric acid. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of joint involvement to determine treatment. Options include reducing the size of the tophi or removing them surgically if they impair function. Surgery may also be considered if tophi are particularly large or threaten joint health. If you have developed tophi from gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain can occur from instability, injuries, or repeated stress that weakens the joint. While rest is important, staying active with low impact cardio helps maintain strength and circulation without placing excessive strain on the ankle. Swimming supports the body in water while easing pressure on the joint. Cycling allows smooth movement that improves range of motion, and yoga builds flexibility and balance. Even controlled dynamic exercises or high intensity training can gradually restore power with reduced impact. A podiatrist can guide safe exercise choices, provide rehabilitation strategies, and create a recovery plan that prevents re-injury. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment and exercise solutions.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Blisters on the lower leg may appear suddenly and often signal more than simple irritation. While friction from shoes or clothing can cause fluid filled pockets, blistering eruptions may also point to underlying conditions. Infections, allergic reactions, burns, and even autoimmune disorders can present with painful or itchy blisters. Because the skin acts as a protective barrier, any break increases the risk of secondary infection, making prompt care important. Keeping the area clean, avoiding further friction, and covering with a sterile dressing can help protect the skin while healing. However, the cause determines the treatment, and self care alone may not resolve the problem. If you develop unexplained or recurring blisters on your lower leg, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

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 Sam Sanandaji, DPM of Foot and Ankle Care Center. 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 Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunionette, also called a tailor’s bunion, is a bony bump that forms on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. It may appear red, swollen, or irritated, and often becomes painful, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes. The area may feel tender, sore, or produce a burning sensation during walking or standing. Common causes include inherited foot structure, improper footwear, pressure on the outer edge of the foot, or abnormal foot mechanics. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunionette with a physical examination and may use X-rays to assess the alignment of the bones. Treatment options depend on the severity and include wider shoes, padding, anti-inflammatory medications, and custom orthotics to relieve pressure. In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe and remove the bony prominence. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive an accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM of Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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