Causes of Foot Changes During Pregnancy

Foot health often changes during pregnancy as the body adapts to support a growing baby. The center of gravity shifts due to the increased uterus and body mass, placing added pressure on the feet and altering posture. Hormonal changes, especially increased relaxin, can cause ligaments to loosen, leading the feet to become longer, flatter, and broader, over time. Swelling is also common, and may make it difficult to find comfortable and supportive shoes. These changes can contribute to discomfort and fatigue with daily activities. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, recommending proper footwear, and providing guidance to reduce strain and swelling. If your feet are uncomfortable during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

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Injuries Common Among Runners

Running places repeated stress on the feet, which can lead to several types of injuries over time. One of the most frequent problems is plantar fasciitis. This condition involves irritation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot that supports the arch. Runners may also develop Achilles tendonitis, where the tendon connecting the calf to the heel becomes inflamed and painful. Stress fractures are another concern, referring to small cracks in the bone caused by repeated impact. Pain in the ball of the foot can develop from inflammation around the toe joints. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, assess gait, and use X-rays or other imaging tests to confirm a diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotic devices, bracing, and guidance on improving foot alignment to reduce strain. If you are experiencing foot pain after running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

  • Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
  • Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
  • “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
  • Cross-Training is Crucial
  • Wear Proper Running Shoes
  • Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.

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Diabetes and How It Affects the Feet

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar, leading to elevated glucose levels. It can develop due to genetic factors, lifestyle habits, or the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and slow healing. Diabetes often affects the feet because high blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation. This may lead to skin changes, thick calluses, foot ulcers, and a higher risk of infection. Poor circulation can delay healing and increase complications. Risk factors include excess weight, family history, and inactivity. A podiatrist can monitor foot health, treat wounds, manage calluses, and provide preventive care. If you have diabetes and notice changes in your feet, 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 Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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.

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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Women

Foot pain in women may develop from several lifestyle and health-related factors that place stress on the feet. Wearing high heel shoes or shoes that fit improperly can increase pressure on the forefoot and toes, often leading to discomfort, swelling, and deformities over time. Pregnancy may also contribute to foot pain because increased body weight and hormonal changes can affect ligaments and foot stability. Additionally, conditions such as osteoporosis may weaken bone strength, while rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint inflammation, stiffness, and swelling in the feet. Risk factors may include prolonged standing,  wearing improper footwear, and genetic predisposition. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms and provide personalized treatment. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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