Taking the Right Steps: Common Foot Problems and How a Podiatrist Can Help

Our feet are or foundation, carrying us through life's journey. Yet, we often neglect them until pain or discomfort forces us to pay attention. As a board-certified podiatrist with Laguna Woods Podiatry Group in Laguna Hills, I'm here to shed light on some common foot problems and explain how podiatric care can help you regain your stride.

Common Foot Ailments We Treat:

• Heel Pain: From plantar fasciitis to heel spurs, heel pain can make every step a struggle. We offer a variety of treatments, including custom orthotics, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections, to alleviate pain and restore mobility.
• Bunions: Those bony bumps at the base of your big toe can cause pain, redness, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes.  Conservative treatments include padding, splinting, and wider shoes, while surgical options can correct the deformity and alleviate pain.
• Hammertoes: Bent or deformed toes can lead to pain, calluses, and even difficulty walking.  We offer various treatment options, from conservative measures like toe spacers and splinting to surgical correction for more severe cases.
• Ankle Pain: Sprains, strains, arthritis, and other conditions can cause ankle pain and instability.  Treatment may include bracing, physical therapy, medications, or minimally invasive surgery.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons in the foot or ankle can cause pain and limit movement.  We offer various treatments, including rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and custom orthotics.
• Ingrown Toenails: Painful and sometimes infected toenails require proper care to prevent complications.  Treatment may include careful trimming, antibiotics, or minor surgical procedures to remove the ingrown portion of the nail.
• Fungal Infections: Athlete's foot and fungal nails can cause itching, burning, and unsightly changes in your skin and nails.  We offer antifungal medications, laser treatment for fungal nails, and guidance on preventing recurrence.
• Diabetic Foot Problems: People with diabetes are more prone to foot ulcers, infections, and nerve damage (neuropathy).  We provide specialized diabetic foot care, including regular checkups, wound care, and education on preventative measures.
• Flat Feet: Fallen arches can cause pain, fatigue, and even problems in other parts of the body like the knees and back.  Treatment may include custom orthotics, supportive shoes, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

How a Podiatrist Can Help:

• Accurate Diagnosis: Podiatrists have specialized knowledge and tools to diagnose the root cause of your foot problem.
• Personalized Treatment: We create tailored treatment plans based on your specific condition and needs.
• Non-Surgical Options: We offer various non-surgical treatments, including custom orthotics, medications, physical therapy, and injections.
• Surgical Solutions: When necessary, we perform minimally invasive and reconstructive surgical procedures.
• Preventative Care: We provide guidance on proper foot care, footwear choices, and injury prevention.

Serving Our Community:

Laguna Woods Podiatry Group is dedicated to serving the foot care needs of patients in Laguna Hills and the surrounding communities, including:

• Aliso Viejo
• Dana Point
• Irvine
• Laguna Beach
• Laguna Niguel
• Lake Forest
• Mission Viejo
• Rancho Santa Margarita
• San Clemente
• San Juan Capistrano

Call to Action:

Don't let foot pain hold you back! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Neda Arjomandi at Laguna Woods Podiatry Group today. We're here to help you get back on your feet and enjoy an active, pain-free life.