Drop foot is a condition where lifting the front of the foot becomes difficult, leading to dragging toes and changes in walking pattern. Specific exercises can support muscle activation and nerve communication involved in ankle and toe movement when guided by a medical professional. These exercises focus on strengthening muscles that lift the foot, improving ankle control, and enhancing balance to reduce fall risk. Gentle resistance movements, controlled ankle lifts, and coordinated gait drills help retrain proper motion. Stretching tight calf and foot muscles can improve foot positioning during walking. A podiatrist identifies the underlying cause, evaluates nerve and muscle function, and creates a structured treatment plan that may include supervised exercises, bracing recommendations, and ongoing monitoring to prevent secondary foot problems. If you have symptoms of drop foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gentle exercises play an important role in recovering from an ankle sprain and restoring strength and movement. One common option is the ankle alphabet, where the foot traces letters in the air to encourage controlled motion in multiple directions. Side to side knee swings, performed while seated with the foot flat on the floor, help improve ankle flexibility and ease stiffness without added strain. Towel scrunch exercises focus on strengthening the small muscles of the foot by gripping and pulling a towel with the toes. These movements support balance and stability as healing progresses. Exercises should be done slowly and within a comfortable range. A podiatrist can recommend when to begin these activities and how to progress safely. Proper guidance helps reduce reinjury risk and promotes a more confident return to walking and daily activities. If you have sustained an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include healing exercises.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels and fissures are more than a cosmetic concern and often signal underlying skin stress. Diagnosis begins with a visual exam of the heels to assess depth, width, and location of the cracks. Shallow splits may appear dry and rough, while deeper fissures can be painful and may bleed. The surrounding skin is evaluated for thickening, redness, or signs of infection. A podiatrist also considers contributing factors, such as pressure patterns, footwear, standing time, and skin conditions that affect moisture balance. Circulation and sensation may be checked, especially in people with diabetes or nerve changes, since healing risks are higher. Understanding how long the cracks have been present and whether pain has increased helps guide care decisions. Proper diagnosis allows treatment to focus on both healing and prevention. If heel cracks become painful, deep, or recurrent, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful foot condition that involves thickening and irritation of a nerve that runs between the metatarsal bones at the base of the toes. It is commonly caused by compression of the nerve, which disrupts normal sensation between the ends of the metatarsals.  Wearing tight shoes that squeeze the forefoot can increase pressure in this area and worsen symptoms over time. Common signs include pain in the ball of the foot, a burning sensation, tingling, or the feeling of standing on a small pebble. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma through a physical examination and imaging, when needed. Treatment may include footwear modifications, orthotics, targeted therapies, and pain relief strategies. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors 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 offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoes occur when the small toes bend abnormally, creating pressure points that lead to irritation, inflammation, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. As the deformity progresses, corns and calluses often form over the raised joints, increasing discomfort and limiting mobility. A podiatrist can relieve pain by addressing both the symptoms and the underlying mechanics of the foot. Treatment may begin with trimming or reducing thickened skin, applying protective padding, or recommending custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure on the affected toes. In some cases, splinting or taping can help position the toe more comfortably and slow the progression of the deformity. If hammertoe pain becomes persistent or if the toe becomes rigid, minimally invasive or surgical correction may be the most effective option to restore function and relieve discomfort. If you are experiencing hammertoe pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to ensure targeted care that is designed to improve comfort and support long-term foot health.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail is a condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and pain. While mild cases may seem to improve temporarily, ingrown toenails rarely heal on their own and often worsen without proper care. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, toe injuries, and inherited nail shape. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, drainage, and signs of infection around the nail border. Walking or wearing shoes can become uncomfortable as the condition progresses. A podiatrist can help by safely removing the ingrown portion of the nail, treating infection, and preventing recurrence through corrective procedures and education. If you have ongoing toe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for nail removal.  

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot and ankle problems like fractures, diabetes related changes, and gout can affect daily comfort and stability. A fracture may cause sudden swelling, bruising, and sharp pain while bearing weight, and the area may look misshapen or severely tender. Diabetes can lead to reduced sensation, dry skin, slow-healing wounds, and swelling that may feel heavy or numb. Symptoms of gout include intense redness, warmth, and throbbing pain, usually in the big toe, and the affected joint may look shiny or swollen. These conditions may feel limiting, stressful, or unpredictable, especially when movement increases discomfort. A podiatrist can begin by performing a full examination, ordering imaging or lab tests when needed, and identifying the underlying cause of symptoms. Treatment may include fracture stabilization, wound care, footwear recommendations, or long-term management strategies to prevent complications. Because early professional care protects foot health and supports safe recovery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors 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 offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion can lead to steady pain at the base of the big toe, especially when the bump grows larger as the toe shifts toward the second toe. When wider shoes or protective pads no longer reduce discomfort, surgery to correct the deformity may be considered. Reasons for choosing bunion surgery include pain that interferes with daily movement, difficulty walking more than short distances, or swelling around the big toe joint that does not improve with rest. Some people also struggle to bend or straighten the toe because the joint becomes too stiff. Surgery helps realign the bones of the big toe and reduce the bony prominence so the foot can function more comfortably. A podiatrist can assess the size and severity of the bunion and recommend the best plan for relief. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Doctors, Inc. . our doctors 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 offices located in Beverly Hills, Encino, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos, Pasadena, and Rolling Hills Estates CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.