Items filtered by date: February 2025

The cuboid bone may be small, but it plays a big role in foot function. Located on the outer midfoot, it acts as a stabilizer, supporting weight distribution and aiding movement. It also helps maintain the arch and provides a smooth transition when walking. Because of its key position, even minor misalignment can lead to pain and mobility issues. One common problem is cuboid syndrome, where the bone shifts out of place due to overuse, injury, or wearing tight footwear. This can cause sharp pain along the outer foot, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight. Dancers, athletes, and people with flat feet are especially at risk. Ignoring symptoms can lead to chronic discomfort and changes in gait. Treatment includes rest, foot strengthening, and sometimes realignment techniques. If you are experiencing this type of pain and it persists or worsens, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to restore proper function and prevent further issues.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Diabetic foot care is essential to prevent complications, especially when dealing with wounds. Diabetes can impair circulation and reduce sensation in the feet, making it harder to detect injuries. Small cuts, blisters, or ulcers can go unnoticed and lead to serious infections. Symptoms of a diabetic foot wound include redness, swelling, warmth, or even pus surrounding the affected area, often accompanied by pain or discomfort. In some cases, you may not feel any pain due to nerve damage. It is important to keep the wound clean and dry. For severe wounds, you might need antibiotics or a specialized wound care regimen. A podiatrist can help by thoroughly assessing the wound, providing the right treatments, and monitoring for infection or further complications. This type of doctor may also recommend custom footwear to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas. If you have diabetes and notice any foot wounds, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to promote heatling and prevent further issues.

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 one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Carrying extra weight can place added stress on the lower limbs, which may contribute to discomfort like joint pain, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis. This strain on the knees, ankles, and feet can sometimes lead to arthritis, or make existing conditions feel worse. When surgery on the lower limbs is needed, the healing process may take longer due to the extra pressure on the area. For those living with diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, carrying additional weight may increase the chance of delayed healing or issues like ulcers due to reduced circulation and sensation. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, relief is possible with immobilization of the ankle, which can help reduce strain and promote healing. If you are a person carrying excess weight and you are struggling with lower extremity problems, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for compassionate, personalized care to address your concerns, and help keep your feet and ankles healthy and strong.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or does not excrete enough through urine. Symptoms include sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint, typically during the night. Gout attacks can feel excruciating, making even the lightest touch unbearable. Treatment for gout involves medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation. Long-term management may include medications to lower uric acid levels and lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol intake and eating a purine-free diet. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout, manage flare-ups, and provide advice on footwear and exercises to reduce strain on affected joints. If you are experiencing symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedle an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and management.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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