Step Up Your Foot Care Knowledge: A Podiatrist's Guide to Healthy Feet

Your feet are your foundation. They carry you through life, and when they hurt, it impacts everything you do.  At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. This article aims to answer some of the most common questions we hear about podiatry, foot health, and the services we offer. Whether you're experiencing foot pain or simply curious about podiatric care, we hope this information is helpful!

Q: What is a podiatrist, and what do they do?

A podiatrist, also known as a doctor of podiatric medicine, is a foot and ankle specialist. We are trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. This includes everything from routine checkups and preventative care to more complex procedures like surgery.

Here are some of the most common things podiatrists do:

• Diagnose and treat foot and ankle pain: This can include conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, and sports injuries.
• Perform surgery: Podiatrists are qualified to perform a variety of surgical procedures on the feet and ankles, including bunion correction, hammertoe correction, and ingrown toenail removal.
• Prescribe medication: We can prescribe medications to treat pain, inflammation, and infections.
• Recommend physical therapy: Physical therapy can help you improve your strength, flexibility, and balance, which can be important for healing from injuries and preventing future problems.
• Create custom orthotics: Orthotics are shoe inserts that can help to support your feet and improve your comfort and alignment.

Q: What are some common foot problems that people see podiatrists for?

Here are some of the most common foot problems that people see podiatrists for:

• Heel pain: This is a common problem that can be caused by plantar fasciitis, a condition that inflames the ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot.
• Foot pain: This can be caused by a variety of factors, including arthritis, hammertoes, bunions, and sports injuries.
• Toenail fungus: This is a fungal infection that can cause the toenail to become discolored, thick, and brittle.
• Ingrown toenails: This is a condition in which the corner of a toenail grows into the skin next to it.
• Diabetic foot care: People with diabetes are at increased risk for developing foot problems, so it's important to see a podiatrist regularly for checkups and preventative care.

Q: When should I see a podiatrist?

You should see a podiatrist if you are experiencing any foot or ankle pain, or if you have any other concerns about your foot health. It's also important to see a podiatrist if you have diabetes or another chronic condition that can affect your feet.

Q: What can I expect during my first visit to a podiatrist?

During your first visit to a podiatrist, you can expect them to ask you about your medical history and symptoms. They will also examine your feet and ankles and may order tests such as X-rays or blood tests. Based on their findings, they will develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

Q: What are some tips for preventing foot problems?

Here are some tips for preventing foot problems:

• Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support.
• Avoid wearing high heels for long periods of time.
• Keep your feet clean and dry.
• Moisturize your feet regularly.
• See a podiatrist for regular checkups.

Q: What's the difference between a podiatrist and a board-certified podiatrist like Dr. Arjomandi?

All podiatrists are licensed doctors, but board certification demonstrates a higher level of commitment to the field.  Board-certified podiatrists like Dr. Arjomandi have:

• Completed extensive post-graduate training (residency)
• Passed rigorous exams
• Met ongoing education requirements to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in podiatric care.

This means you can trust that a board-certified podiatrist has the knowledge and skills to provide you with the highest quality care.

Cities We Serve:

In addition to Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods Podiatry Group also serves the following cities:

• Mission Viejo
• Aliso Viejo
• Lake Forest
• Irvine
• Rancho Santa Margarita
• Foothill Ranch
• Laguna Niguel

If you are experiencing any foot or ankle pain, please contact us today to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you get back on your feet and living pain-free.

Call us today at (949) 581-2520 to schedule an appointment.