Orthotics are shoe inserts designed to support the feet and improve how pressure moves through them. They may be prescribed or purchased over the counter, depending on your needs. Orthotics can provide arch support, cushioning, and improved foot alignment. They are often used when foot structure or movement contributes to discomfort. This approach can make walking more comfortable while reducing unnecessary stress on sensitive areas.

Common symptoms that may benefit from orthotic support include arch pain, heel pain, and tired feet. Some people notice discomfort while walking, standing, or exercising. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, and unsupportive footwear. Other causes of foot strain may include abnormal gait mechanics, previous injuries, or prolonged standing. A podiatrist can determine whether orthotics are appropriate for your specific condition.

Types of orthotics include custom orthotics and prefabricated inserts. Custom orthotics are designed from measurements or scans of your feet and can address biomechanical needs specific to you. Prefabricated options provide general support and may work well for certain mild problems. A podiatrist begins by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. The feet are examined for alignment, pressure points, and range of motion. Your walking pattern may also be evaluated before an orthotic recommendation is made.

Treatment with orthotics usually begins with selecting the correct device for your foot structure and daily activities. Your podiatrist may recommend gradual wear so your feet can adjust comfortably. Follow-up visits can help assess comfort levels and determine whether adjustments are needed. Wearing proper footwear is also important because shoes should provide enough room and stability for the insert. Orthotics do not simply add cushioning, they can help manage pressure and support healthier movement. If you have persistent arch discomfort or need better foot support, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what type of orthotics are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Ankle pain can affect one or both ankles, and can make standing, walking, or physical activity uncomfortable. A sprain is one frequent cause. This injury happens when one or more ligaments, the strong bands that connect bones, are stretched or torn. An ankle that twists inward can damage ligaments and lead to swelling or bruising. Pain can also come from irritated tendons, which connect muscles to bones. Arthritis, joint infection, and nerve problems are other possible causes.

A podiatrist can evaluate ankle pain and determine whether the problem involves bones, joints, or surrounding tissues. The examination can include checking swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. A podiatrist can also evaluate the patient's ability to place weight on the ankle during the physical examination. Imaging tests can be used when a fracture or another injury is suspected. Severe pain after an injury deserves prompt attention, especially when the ankle looks deformed or cannot support weight. Significant swelling or an inability to move the ankle also requires medical evaluation. Redness, warmth, and fever can point to an infection and should be evaluated promptly.

Treatment for ankle pain depends on its cause and the amount of damage present. A podiatrist can provide treatment to protect the ankle and support proper healing. Care can include a brace, walking boot, or other form of support. The podiatrist can also recommend supervised exercises to improve strength, balance, and ankle movement when appropriate for the condition. Some injuries require additional medical treatment or surgery. A podiatrist can monitor recovery and determine when returning to normal activities is appropriate. Persistent ankle pain should not be ignored because different conditions can cause similar symptoms. An accurate diagnosis allows treatment to address the source of the problem rather than the discomfort alone. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and  appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Pedram Aslmand, DPM from Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus develops when fungi infect a toenail and begin changing its color, thickness, or texture. The infection usually starts near the edge or corner of the nail and can spread across it. Signs include yellow or white discoloration, thickening, and brittle or crumbly edges. The nail can also become difficult to trim. In more advanced cases, it can lift away from the nail bed or break. Pain is not always present at first. However, a thickened nail can press against the inside of a shoe and make walking uncomfortable.

The fungi linked to athlete’s foot cause many toenail-fungus infections. They grow well in warm, dark, and damp places. The infection from athlete’s foot can spread to a toenail or from one nail to another. Risk factors include damaged nails, sweaty feet, and wearing tight or non-breathable shoes. Shared areas like swimming pools and changing rooms can also expose feet to fungus. Toenail fungus can spread between people through direct contact or shared surfaces. Several other nail problems can resemble a fungal infection, so getting the correct diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can examine the affected nail and determine whether fungus is responsible for the changes. When the diagnosis is uncertain, testing a small nail sample can help confirm the cause. Treatment can involve antifungal medication applied to the nail or prescription antifungal tablets for more severe infections. Toenails grow slowly, so a clear, healthy-looking nail can take many months to replace the damaged nail. A podiatrist can also monitor progress and address thick or painful nails that interfere with shoes or walking. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM of Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Congenital foot problems are conditions affecting a baby’s feet that are present at birth. Some develop because of the baby’s position before birth, while others involve differences in how the bones, joints, or muscles formed. One example is clubfoot, which causes the foot to turn inward and downward. Another is metatarsus adductus, in which the front half of the foot curves inward. Some newborn foot deformities are flexible, while others are more rigid. The appearance of a baby’s feet does not always indicate the severity of a condition. A professional examination can help determine the type of foot problem and whether treatment is necessary.

Early evaluation is important because a baby’s feet continue to grow and develop quickly. Some congenital foot deformities may improve as the child grows, while others require medical treatment to guide the foot into a better position. The severity and flexibility of the deformity can help determine the appropriate approach. Certain conditions may affect one foot or both feet. Without proper care, more serious deformities may eventually influence standing, walking, or normal foot function. Identifying the condition early allows health care professionals to monitor development and determine whether additional treatment is needed as the child grows.

A podiatrist can evaluate congenital foot problems by examining the shape, position, and movement of a baby’s feet. The examination can help determine whether the foot is flexible or whether structural changes require closer attention. Depending on the diagnosis, podiatric care may involve monitoring development, specialized casting, or coordination with other medical specialists. Treatment decisions are based on the specific deformity and the child’s development. Early podiatric care can help support proper foot alignment and future mobility when treatment is needed. If you notice unusual positioning, shape, or movement in your baby’s feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Pedram Aslmand, DPM of Advanced Foot and Ankle Center. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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