- Osteoporosis
- Warts
- ArthritisConditions affecting the feet due to complications with arthritis can take many forms, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Osteoarthritis typically affects the joint connecting your big toe to your foot, though it can also be found in the midfoot or ankle region. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects both feet and deals with the same joints on each foot. Gout, which normally affects the big toe, is comprised of needle-like crystals that trigger inflammation in the joints. Psoriatic arthritis causes sausage-like swelling in the toes. Lastly, ankylosing spondylitis can lead to plantar fasciitis and pain at the Achilles tendon.
- Fibromyalgia
- Plantar FasciitisOrthotics, unlike typical shoe inserts, are prescribed by a podiatrist to help provide your feet with cushion and support. They can also aid in correcting a specific foot condition that you may be dealing with. Conditions such as diabetes, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, arthritis, and flat feet can highly benefit from the use of orthotics, and orthotics may assist you in alleviating pain that often comes with those ailments.
- CryotherapyIf you have plantar warts, your podiatrist may try different treatment methods depending on your specific case. Some treatments for plantar warts are peeling medicines (salicylic acid), freezing medicines (cryotherapy), or surgical procedures. Laser treatments and vaccines are also used to treat plantar warts.
- Medical Weight LossIf you’re experiencing any discomfort or pain due to one of the above forms of arthritis, consider over-the-counter pain medication and investing in comfortable footwear. Pain medication coupled with top of the line comfort footwear is a great way to ease the pain that often comes with arthritis. If you’re overweight, it’s also recommended to think about setting a weight loss goal to ease some of the pressure on your feet, as well stay as active as possible. Applying ice or heat to the affected area is another way to calm the discomfort you may experience. It’s important to do research and see whether inserts may be beneficial for you. General foot care, like pampering your feet and keeping them well maintained, is also recommended. Lastly, you should seek professional advice and learn about potential surgery options, if necessary.
- Primary CareFor any insurance plan that requires authorization from a primary care physician (e.g. HMO, PPO, etc.) it is your responsibility (as patient or guardian) to be sure that this office receives all necessary referrals or authorizations PRIOR to treatment. Professional services are rendered and billed directly to your insurance carrier; however you, the patient/guardian, are directly responsible for services rendered by the doctor. A health insurance policy is a contract between you (the patient or subscriber) and your insurance carrier. You MUST notify this Office of any changes to your insurance policy including policy termination, changes in co-payments or a new insurance policy. If for any reason the insurance carrier denies charges, payments for any services rendered will become the responsibility of the patient/guardian.
- Diabetic Foot CareHe has been in practice since 2007. His podiatric interests lie in reconstructive foot surgery, trauma, wound care, biomechanics, diabetic foot care, general podiatric care, and sports medicine. He is fluent in Spanish.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Prostate Cancer
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Anxiety
- Diabetes Care
- Thyroid
- MRIIn many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
- X-Rays
- Sciatica
- Wound CareWound care is particularly important for those with diabetes. It’s possible that what appears to be a small wound could turn into more severe foot complications down the road if left untreated. It’s common for those with diabetes to experience neuropathy. Neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects the body and can cause you to lose feeling in the feet. If you’re no longer experiencing feeling in your feet and a wound develops, it’s very possible it may go unnoticed if you don’t check your feet daily.
- Minimally Invasive SurgeryMinimally invasive surgery can mean smaller incisional approaches or endoscopic procedures. Using minimally invasive techniques and surgeries provide our patients with many benefits over traditional treatments and surgeries. These benefits typically include...
- Ankle SurgeryWhen it comes to receiving foot and ankle surgery, it’s typically a case by case situation. Some factors that play a role in whether or not you need surgery include the severity of your symptoms as well as your response to other conservative, noninvasive treatment methods.
- Bunion SurgeryMinimally Invasive Bunion Surgery. This type of procedure requires only micro incisions to be made in the skin of the foot to correct the deformity and realign the bones. This type of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is an alternative to traditional bunion surgery. It can reduce the pain, risk, recovery time and scarring associated with open surgery. There are various techniques of MIS bunion surgery including Percutaneous Chevron Akin-where the podiatrist cuts and repositions the first metatarsal and big toe bones-and minimally invasive Percutaneous Lapidus technique, which involves cutting the big toe bone, then realigning and fusing the midfoot joint.
- BunionsReasons that a person may develop a bunion can vary. Some patients may form bunions due to genetic factors, complications with arthritis, or a weak foot structure. General aging can also play a role in the formation of a bunion.
- Ingrown ToenailsIngrown toenails can form when the side of a toenail begins to grow into the flesh surrounding the nail. As a result, the affected toe—most commonly the big toe—may become red, swollen, painful, and—in severe cases—infected.
- Reconstructive SurgerySports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
- CornsCorns are thickened areas on the skin’s surface, and they can be irritating and painful. Corns are commonly found on the feet, and they are typically circular or cone-shaped. They develop where there are areas of pressure or friction, such as on the little toe when it rubs up against shoes, or on the ball of your foot.
- Ulcer
- CallusesWhile corns are often confused with calluses, there is a difference between them. Corns are raised bumps that consist of rough, thickened areas of skin that may be dry or waxy. They also tend to be surrounded by skin that is inflamed and are usually much smaller than calluses.
- FungusThe area of the toes is generally warm and damp, unfortunately making it a great area for fungus to grow. If left untreated, the fungal infection can spread, which is why it’s so important to get professional help early on and look into your treatment options.
- LesionsIf you suspect you have plantar warts, you may have the following symptoms: pain or tenderness while walking, a lesion that interrupts the ridges in the skin of your foot, small fleshy lesions on the bottom of the foot, or a callus where a wart has grown inward over a well-defined spot on the skin.
- Sports MedicineSome common contributors that lead to foot and ankle injuries in the realm of sports include not stretching properly or failing to warm up, wearing the incorrect footwear needed for your particular sport, as well as not taping or providing your feet and ankle with the needed support. There are a number of foot conditions that can develop if certain safety measures are ignored. Some of the most common conditions related to sports injuries include Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures, to name a few.
- Physical TherapyPossible conditions that may arise due to injury of the Achilles tendon include tears, ruptures, tendinitis, peritendinitis, tendinosis, tendinopathy, and bursitis. When trying to diagnose if one has issues with their Achilles tendon, a podiatrist will commonly check for any pain, swelling, or discoloration around the heel or lower leg area. Different treatments for issues concerning the Achilles tendon vary, but may include over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers for intense discomfort, alternating ice and heat therapy, custom-made orthotics, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. To help prevent injury to the Achilles tendon, it’s recommended to regularly perform stretches involving the muscles of the lower leg.
- Tennis ElbowShockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
- Shoulder Pain
- Flatfoot Correction
- Heel Pain
- Ankle SprainThere are many factors that play into the cause of ankle sprains. Simple, everyday activities like walking can lead to an ankle sprain if the activity is being done on an uneven surface. The same goes for running or exercising. Those who partake in sports may be more susceptible to obtaining a sprained ankle because they’re more likely to fall or land uncomfortably after a jump, which can lead to an injury.
- Neck Pain
- Orthotics and Prosthetic Therapy
- General PodiatryTo ensure your convenience, below is the information you need about our podiatry office, including our hours, location, appointment scheduling and insurance acceptance.
- Achilles TendonitisThere are many different causes of heel pain, including strains or sprains, tarsal tunnel syndrome, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and heel bursitis. One of the most common causes of heel pain for children and teenagers specifically is Sever’s disease. Sever’s disease can develop due to overuse or repetitive microtrauma of the heel bone's growth plates. This condition is often seen among those who are active in sporting activities.
- Ankle SprainAnkle pain, while initially thought of as an issue for athletes, can affect anyone at anytime. Simple, everyday activities, such as walking or running on an uneven surface, have the possibility of causing serious harm to one’s ankle. That is, however, not to discount athletic injuries; in fact, half of all ankle sprains are inflicted during an athletic activity. The most common causes of ankle injuries include tripping or falling, landing awkwardly after jumping, a sudden impact such as a car crash, or twisting, rolling, and rotating of the ankle.
- Arthritic Foot Care
- Bunions ProblemsA bunion is a bony, painful swelling that is often formed on the first joint of the big toe. Bunions can be extremely painful due to the weight of all your body resting on it each time you take a step. Everyday activities, such as walking and wearing shoes, can cause you extreme discomfort if you have a bunion.
- Calluses
- Diabetic Foot CareDr. Castillo is available to treat foot and ankle ailments such as diabetic foot care, ingrown toenails, fungal toenails, warts and painful calluses. Our practice specializes in general foot care.
- Flat FeetWhen it comes to treating flat feet or fallen arches, it’s suggested you get plenty of rest. Frequently ice the affected area to help reduce swelling. Performing daily stretches are a great way to loosen up your muscles and relieve strain. It may also be beneficial to look into orthotics or shoe inserts to help relieve the pain.
- Fungus ToenailsFungal infections occur due to fungus getting through the cracks of the toes or cuts in your skin. Common signs that you may have a fungal infection include thicker than normal toenails, oddly shaped toenails, discoloration, a yellowish hue to the nail, and separation of the nail and nail bed. Fungal infections can affect anyone but are most common among men, those with diabetes or athlete’s foot, and smokers. The risk of having toenail fungus also increases as you age, if another family member has it, and if you have a weaker immune system.
- Geriatric Foot CareAs you age, it’s important to pay good attention to your overall health; this includes the well being of your feet. The feet are considered the foundation of the body; if their hygiene becomes at risk, it’s possible you can find yourself immobile and in pain. To avoid this, it’s recommended that senior citizens, in particular, take early action in maintaining the health of their feet.
- HammertoesHammertoes can be identified by an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe. This abnormal bending can lead to added pressure on the toe when wearing shoes. It can also cause pain or discomfort when walking or running. Because hammertoes typically worsen overtime and become increasingly more rigid, it’s recommended that you seek the help of a podiatrist for treatment options if you believe you’re experiencing the symptoms of this deformity.
- Heel SpursThere are different causes that may lead to a heel spur including poorly fitted shoes, excess weight or obesity, repetitive stress from running or jogging on hard surfaces, and arthritis. Treating a heel spur often requires a lifestyle change as well as getting plenty of rest. Using cold compresses is another method to help alleviate the discomfort of a heel spur. To prevent further damage, it may be useful to look into wearing shoe inserts or custom orthotics.
- Heel PainOur Foot Specialist, Oscar Castillo, DPM, specializes in foot and ankle care, including pediatric foot care, heel pain treatment, foot and ankle fractures, sports injuries, and more! Our clinic welcomes patients of all ages from infants to adults. We pride ourselves on treating our patients with the respect and care that they deserve, and as a bilingual podiatry practice, English and Spanish, we want all of our patients to fully understand any foot or ankle issues they may be facing.
- Foot Pain
- Ingrown ToenailsTreatment for an ingrown toenail will vary on a case by case basis. One form of treatment requires lifting the ingrown nail and placing a splint or piece of cotton underneath. Another method for a more severe case would involve partially removing the nail. For cases that need extreme care, the nail itself and tissue would have to be removed.
- Foot Injuries
- MetatarsalgiaAn overlapping toe, whether in adults or newborns, is a common condition with varying causes. In adults, overlapping toes can result from heredity, ill fitting shoes, and different forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid. Biomechanics, such as overpronation or tight calf muscles are other possible causes. Foot conditions, such as bunions, flat feet, hammer toes, and high arches, may cause overlapping toes to develop. Factors such as age and foot injuries can worsen this condition. Overlapping toes can also affect newborns, typically involving the pinky toe overlapping the fourth toe. Genetics and fetal position in the womb can contribute to this condition too. Complications of overlapping toes include pain, corns, calluses, bursitis, and metatarsalgia. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent these complications and to ensure proper alignment of the toes. Non surgical measures include proper shoe fitting, toe separators, and maintaining a healthy body weight. In some cases, surgery may be an option. If you are experiencing overlapping toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
- Foot NeuromaMorton’s neuroma may develop when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your foot begins to thicken. When this occurs, you may experience some discomfort as if you were standing on a pebble stuck in your shoe. Most symptoms will not appear outwardly and will be experienced in the form of a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, as well as a stinging or burning feeling in the toes that may sometimes lead to numbness.
- Pediatric Foot Care
- Plantar FasciitisPlantar fasciitis affects the plantar regions of the foot, namely the heel, arch, and midfoot. When too much stress is put on the plantar fascia, or the connective tissue that stretches from the heel to the ball of your foot, inflammation, overtightening, and tearing may arise. This can cause foot pain. Because of plantar fasciitis, you may experience tearing with the first steps you take in the morning each day.
- Podiatric DeformitiesSome factors that contribute to the formation of Morton’s neuroma include wearing high heels or ill-fitting shoes that put extra pressure on your toes or the balls of your feet. There has also been a tie to the development of Morton’s neuroma and certain high-impact sporting activities. Activities you may want to avoid from participating in too frequently include both jogging and running. Too much repetitive trauma can cause a strain on the feet and increase the chances of developing a foot complication. Other sports that require the use of tightly worn shoes, such as skiing or rock climbing, may also increase your chances of getting Morton’s neuroma. Certain foot deformities can also lead to the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some of these deformities that increase the likelihood of getting this condition include bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet.
- Podiatric SurgerySubtalar Joint Arthroereisis is a minimally invasive flat foot surgery. It is a less aggressive option used to treat a mild or pediatric flatfoot. The implant blocks excessive pronation of the subtalar joint. A small incision is made over the lateral foot, and then a small implant is inserted into the sinus tarsi, a small canal that goes up to the ankle below the talus bone. Minimal dissection allows for a quicker recovery period and a shorter immobilization time when compared to full reconstructive methods.