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6734 Lankershim Blvd
North Hollywood, CA 91606

Tuesday, 30 September 2025 00:00

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Tuesday, 23 September 2025 00:00

A hammertoe is a foot deformity where a toe bends downward at the middle joint, creating pain, stiffness, and difficulty wearing shoes. It can develop from wearing tight shoes, muscle imbalance, trauma, or underlying conditions like arthritis. Risk factors include age, family history, and footwear choices. Symptoms may include corns, calluses, swelling, or limited toe movement. Without treatment, hammertoes can worsen and cause chronic discomfort. A podiatrist can provide relief through conservative care such as custom orthotics, padding, or exercises, and, in severe cases, recommend surgical correction. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management solutions. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Jennifer Woo from California. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
Tuesday, 16 September 2025 00:00

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. This pressure can result in pain, tingling, burning, or numbness in the foot and ankle. Causes include injury, flat feet, swelling, or conditions like arthritis. Risk factors may involve repetitive stress, obesity, or chronic inflammation. Symptoms can worsen with activity and may radiate into the toes. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through examination and imaging, then create a personalized treatment plan that may include orthotics, or minimally invasive procedures. If you have persistent foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Jennifer Woo of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tuesday, 09 September 2025 00:00

When examining the feet of an elderly patient, a podiatrist takes a careful and thorough approach. The skin is checked first for dryness, thinning, wounds, or fungal infections that often occur with age. Nails are inspected for thickness, discoloration, and signs of ingrowth. Circulation is evaluated by feeling for pulses in the feet and ankles, since reduced blood flow can slow healing. Sensation is tested with light touch or vibration to detect neuropathy, a common issue in seniors. The structure of the foot is also observed, noting changes such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat arches that may affect balance and mobility. Additionally, pressure points from shoes are identified to prevent ulcers, and gait may be assessed to look for instability. Each part of the exam helps guide recommendations for comfort, safety, and ongoing care. For the best protection and treatment of elderly feet, it is suggested that you regularly visit a podiatrist.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Jennifer Woo of California. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Read more about Geriatrics and Podiatry
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