Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This condition often causes tingling, numbness, and burning sensations, particularly in the feet. Over time, it can lead to muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and heightened sensitivity to touch or pain. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, certain medications, and physical injuries. Poor blood flow and prolonged high blood sugar in diabetic patients can worsen nerve damage, making early intervention vital. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Medications, targeted exercises, and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining healthy blood sugar levels or quitting smoking, can slow progression and improve quality of life. If you suspect peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized care.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are the sturdy bands of tissue connecting the bones in your ankle, are overstretched or torn. Ankle sprains often result from rolling your ankle inward or outward, stepping awkwardly on uneven ground, or twisting the joint. Common types of sprains are lateral sprains, which impact the outer ankle ligaments, medial sprains affecting the inner ligaments, and high ankle sprains involving the ligaments at the front of the ankle. Symptoms range from mild swelling and tenderness to severe pain, instability, and bruising that can limit walking. People with previous injuries, weak ankle muscles, or who wear inappropriate footwear are more susceptible to sprains. A podiatrist can perform a detailed examination, including imaging tests if needed, to identify the type and grade of the sprain. This foot doctor will provide expert care to reduce pain, restore mobility, and minimize the risk of recurring injuries. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor 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 Encino and Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that causes pain in the heel and along the bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. The pain may decrease after walking but can return after long periods of standing or physical activity. Common causes of plantar fasciitis include overuse, poor footwear, tight calf muscles, and abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches. Additionally, obesity, aging, and activities that place excessive pressure on the feet, like running or standing for long hours, can increase the risk of developing this painful condition. Plantar fasciitis can cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Leonora Fihman, DPM  from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that commonly affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty socks and shoes. Symptoms include itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blisters. While athlete's foot primarily affects the feet, it can spread to other areas of the body if not treated properly. The infection can spread to the hands if a person touches the affected area and then touches other parts of their body. Additionally, the fungus can spread to the nails or even the groin area in some cases. It is important to maintain good foot hygiene and treat the infection promptly with antifungal medications to prevent it from spreading to other areas. If you have developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which often includes prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Leonora Fihman, DPM from California. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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