Choosing the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. The shape of your foot, including whether you have flat arches, high arches, or a neutral shape, should guide your selection. The type of running surface, such as pavement, trails, or tracks, also influences the best shoe choice for support and traction. Comfort is important, so always try shoes that feel stable and cushioned during movement. A podiatrist can analyze your gait, foot structure, and running habits to recommend the ideal shoe type. If you have foot pain from wearing running shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer you personalized running shoe advice. 

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, connecting the calf muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus, to the heel bone, or calcaneus. Structurally, it is composed of dense collagen fibers arranged in parallel bundles that provide both strength and flexibility. These fibers allow the tendon to withstand high tension during activities like walking, running, and jumping. The tendon is surrounded by a sheath that helps reduce friction and provides lubrication for smooth movement. Functionally, the Achilles tendon plays a key role in movement and stability. It transmits the powerful force generated by the calf muscles to lift the heel off the ground, enabling push-off during walking or sprinting. It also helps maintain balance and absorb shock during impact. Because of the stress it endures, the Achilles tendon is prone to overuse injuries, especially in athletes and active individuals. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

A Lisfranc injury affects the middle part of the foot, where the long bones of the toes connect to the arch. This type of injury can happen during sports, a misstep on uneven ground, or from a heavy object falling on the foot. A Lisfranc injury may involve stretched ligaments or broken bones, depending on how serious the impact is. Common signs include swelling on the top of the foot, bruising on the bottom of the arch, and pain that makes it hard to walk or put weight on the foot. These injuries are often mistaken for a simple sprain, but if left untreated they can lead to arthritis, ongoing pain, or changes in foot shape. A podiatrist can check for a Lisfranc injury with an exam and imaging tests, and recommend the right treatment, which may include immobilization or surgery. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc foot injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Foot infections are a serious problem for people with diabetes because reduced circulation and nerve damage can make the feet more vulnerable. Even a small cut, blister, or ulcer can allow bacteria to enter, leading to redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. In some cases, the skin may become shiny or tight, and drainage or a foul odor may be noticed. If untreated, these foot infections in diabetics can progress into the deeper tissues, spreading to bones or joints and putting diabetic patients at risk of limb loss. A podiatrist can examine the feet, order imaging or laboratory tests if needed, and provide treatment, such as wound care, antibiotics, or surgery to remove infected tissue. Regular podiatry care is especially important because infections may advance quickly in diabetic feet, and early detection can prevent severe complications. If you are diabetic and have developed a foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and effective treatment.

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 Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.