Items filtered by date: April 2019

Research has indicated the most common form of running is done on roads. The hard ground may play havoc on the human body, and it is beneficial to wear running shoes that are correct for you. It is helpful to know how your foot strikes the ground. This is easily accomplished by looking at a current pair of running shoes and noticing where the sole is worn. Additionally, having good support in a shoe is important to consider if long distance running is preferred. When there is adequate cushioning in the shoe, it will be easier to run much more comfortably. Many runners have a recovery shoe, and this is worn after running a race, or if an injury to the foot has occurred. If you would like additional information about the different types of running shoes, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

The heel of the foot is sometimes referred to as the “hindfoot", and consists of various types of tissues. If damage should occur to these group of tissues, the result may be heel pain. Research has indicated there are several kinds of heel pain, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and nerve disorders. The former will often cause pain that is typically worse as the first steps are taken in the morning and may improve if proper foot stretches are performed. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel. If this should become torn as a result of an injury, Achilles tendonitis will develop. This is often treated with physical therapy, or by wearing orthotics. It is common for many diabetic patients to experience nerve disorders, and heel pain can develop as a result of having peripheral neuropathy. If you have any type of heel pain, it is suggested to counsel with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and begin correct treatment techniques.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

There are two bones that are located under the joint at the bottom of the big toe. These are referred to as the sesamoid bones. If they should suffer an injury or become inflamed from overuse, a condition known as sesamoiditis may occur. The symptoms associated with this ailment may include pain while walking or running, and discomfort when the big toe is pulled upward. An X-ray is often performed to obtain a correct diagnosis, as this may be helpful in determining if the sesamoid bones have become fractured. Additional tests that can be performed may include bone scans or an MRI. If you feel you have sesamoiditis, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can advise you on proper treatment options.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Arthritis in the feet may cause pain and discomfort, and having surgery performed may be an option for relief. Broken bones may occur as a result of bones that are weak, and surgery may be necessary to reposition the bone so the healing process can take place. A procedure that is referred to as arthroscopic debridement may aid in removing inflamed tissue on the affected joints. Additionally, some patients may benefit from joint fusion. This consists of removing a portion of the bone where it connects to the joint, and replacing it with pins. This may alleviate pain and provide additional support for maintaining strong bones. If you are experiencing pain or arthritis in your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can recommend the type of foot surgery that is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Athlete’s foot may affect the majority of the population sometime in their lives. Uncomfortable symptoms may include dry and itchy skin, and may often be noticed between the toes. The bottom of the foot may also be affected, and patients may notice bleeding or cracked skin. This type of fungus thrives in warm and moist environments, and is considered to be contagious. These areas may include public pools and locker rooms, in addition to shower room floors. Preventive measures can be implemented which may prevent athlete’s foot from occurring. These may include washing and drying the feet thoroughly, wearing appropriate shoes while in public areas, and changing shoes and socks often. If you are afflicted with athlete’s foot, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment techniques.

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 Dr. Thong V. Truong 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 office located in Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.