Items filtered by date: March 2025

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and unable to stretch properly, leading to splits and discomfort. This condition, known as heel fissures, often results from prolonged pressure on the feet, insufficient moisture, or exposure to harsh conditions. Walking barefoot or wearing open-back shoes can increase the risk by allowing moisture to escape and causing the skin to harden. Medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, or thyroid disorders may also contribute to excessive dryness. Standing for long hours on a hard surface can worsen the problem by adding stress to the heels. This common condition can be painful. If you have developed problematic cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication for relief.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus does not appear overnight, but once it takes hold, it is hard to ignore. At first, a small white or yellow spot may appear on the toenail. Over time, the nail thickens, turns yellow or brown, and may become brittle, crumbly, or even lift from the nail bed. Some people experience a foul odor, while others feel discomfort when wearing shoes. Treatment takes patience. Mild cases may improve with antifungal creams or medicated nail lacquers, but more stubborn infections often require prescription oral medication or laser treatments. In severe cases, the nail may need to be removed. Prevention is key. Keep feet clean and dry, wear breathable shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public places like around pools or in locker rooms. Trim nails straight across and disinfect nail clippers. If the infection persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can recommend the best course of action.

For more information about treatment, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM of Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort and possible infection. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can worsen if not treated properly. Causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, genetic predisposition, or trauma to the toe. Repeated pressure on the toenail from activities such as running or kicking sports can also contribute to the problem. Symptoms often include pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border. If an infection develops, pus or increased warmth may be present. An ingrown toenail can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this uncomfortable foot ailment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM of Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be present from birth or develop over time. Flat feet are often caused by genetics, where the individual inherits the condition from family members. Other causes include injury, overuse, or conditions such as arthritis and obesity, which place additional stress on the feet. In some cases, flat feet may also result from weakened or damaged tendons. The most common symptoms include pain or discomfort in the feet, especially after long periods of standing or physical activity. Swelling surrounding the ankles or arches and difficulty walking may also occur. While flat feet may not always require treatment, persistent pain or mobility issues should be addressed by a podiatrist. If you have painful flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can monitor this foot condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Sam Sanandaji, DPM from Foot and Ankle Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Beverly Hills, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.