Top 5 Foot Conditions Seen in California Podiatry Clinics

As a podiatrist in California, I often treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. However, there are five foot problems that appear most frequently in patients visiting our clinic. Here are the top conditions, along with their causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Cause: Inflammation of the plantar fascia due to overuse, flat feet, poor footwear, or prolonged standing.
Treatment: Rest, stretching exercises, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, corticosteroid injections.
Prevention: Supportive shoes, daily stretching, weight management, and avoiding prolonged standing.

2. Bunions (Hallux Valgus)

Cause: Genetic predisposition, tight or narrow shoes, arthritis.
Treatment: Shoe modification, bunion pads, toe spacers, custom orthotics, or surgery for severe deformities.
Prevention: Avoid tight or high-heeled shoes, wear wide-toe shoes, use orthotics early on.

3. Ingrown Toenails

Cause: Improper nail trimming, tight footwear, trauma, genetic factors.
Treatment: Warm soaks, antibiotic creams, partial nail removal by a podiatrist, or permanent nail matrix removal.
Prevention: Trim nails straight across, wear well-fitting shoes, and maintain good foot hygiene.

4. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

Cause: Fungal infection due to moist environments, sweaty feet, communal showers.
Treatment: Antifungal creams or oral medications, drying powders, good hygiene.
Prevention: Keep feet dry, change socks daily, avoid walking barefoot in public areas.

5. Diabetic Foot Complications

Cause: Poor circulation and nerve damage from uncontrolled diabetes.
Treatment: Wound care, blood sugar control, infection management, diabetic shoes, and regular foot exams.
Prevention: Daily foot checks, proper footwear, regular podiatric visits, diabetes management.

If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain or discomfort, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment by a foot specialist can prevent complications and improve mobility. Ace foot and ankle podiatrists is here to help you walk comfortably and confidently.