Patient Education
We are passionate about the care we provide for our patients. Our Patient Education section is designed to help our patients have a deeper understanding of foot conditions, symptoms and treatments. If you have questions, please contact us today.
Why Custom Orthotics Aren’t Just Insoles—and How They Can Change the Way You Walk
Many people assume custom orthotics are just expensive shoe inserts. In reality, they are medical devices designed to correct foot mechanics, improve alignment, and reduce stress throughout the body. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are built specifically for your feet—and they can significantly change the way you walk, stand, and move. Every foot is different. [...] Read More
From Ingrown Toenails to Chronic Pain: What a Podiatrist Treats (and When to Go)
Many people think podiatrists only treat severe foot pain or perform surgery. In reality, podiatry covers a wide range of conditions—from routine foot care to complex medical and structural issues that affect mobility and overall health. Knowing what a podiatrist treats and when to seek care can prevent small problems from becoming serious ones. Some [...] Read More
Foot Problems Don’t Fix Themselves: How Early Podiatric Care Prevents Long-Term Damage
It’s easy to ignore foot problems—especially when the pain is mild or comes and goes. Many people assume soreness is just part of aging, long workdays, or being active. But foot and ankle issues rarely resolve on their own. In fact, delaying care often allows small problems to turn into chronic conditions that are far [...] Read More
The Hidden Impact of Poor Foot Health on Your Knees, Hips, and Back
Most people think of foot pain as a localized problem—something limited to the toes, heels, or arches. What many don’t realize is that poor foot health can quietly affect the entire body. Because your feet are the foundation of movement, even small issues can trigger a chain reaction that leads to pain in the knees, [...] Read More
Why Your Feet Are Trying to Tell You Something—and When to Listen to a Podiatrist
Your feet do a lot more talking than most people realize. From subtle aches to persistent pain, changes in how your feet feel, move, or look are often early warning signs of underlying issues. Unfortunately, many people ignore these signals until discomfort becomes impossible to avoid. Understanding when your feet are asking for help—and when [...] Read More
How Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Can Help You Avoid Surgery—and Recover Faster When You Need It
Many patients worry that visiting a foot and ankle specialist automatically leads to surgery. In reality, modern podiatric care prioritizes conservative, non-surgical treatments whenever possible, while also offering advanced surgical solutions when necessary. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, treatment begins with a thorough evaluation to understand the cause of pain or dysfunction. This allows providers [...] Read More
Bunions, Hammertoes, and More: When Is It Time to See a Foot & Ankle Specialist?
Foot deformities often start small—barely noticeable changes in toe alignment or mild discomfort that comes and goes. Over time, conditions like bunions and hammertoes can worsen, leading to chronic pain, difficulty walking, and limitations in footwear choices. Bunions develop when the big toe shifts toward the other toes, creating a bony prominence on the side [...] Read More
Diabetes and Your Feet: How Preventative Podiatric Care Can Protect Your Mobility
Diabetes affects more than blood sugar levels—it can significantly impact foot health and overall mobility. People with diabetes are at higher risk for nerve damage, poor circulation, infections, and slow-healing wounds, making routine foot care essential. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is peripheral neuropathy, which reduces sensation in the feet. When pain [...] Read More
From Heel Pain to Happy Steps: Modern Treatments That Help You Walk Comfortably Again
Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek podiatric care. Whether it appears suddenly or develops gradually, heel pain can make everyday activities—like walking, exercising, or even standing—painful and frustrating. Fortunately, advances in foot and ankle care now offer effective solutions that go beyond rest and over-the-counter remedies. The most frequent cause [...] Read More
When Foot Pain Isn’t “Just Foot Pain”: Common Conditions You Shouldn’t Ignore
Foot pain is often dismissed as a minor inconvenience—something caused by long days, uncomfortable shoes, or simple fatigue. However, persistent or recurring foot pain is rarely “normal” and can be an early sign of an underlying condition that requires professional care. Ignoring foot and ankle pain can allow minor problems to progress into chronic issues [...] Read More
Why Your Heel Pain Isn’t ‘Just’ Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is one of the most common complaints in podiatry, and for many patients, the immediate assumption is plantar fasciitis. While plantar fasciitis is indeed a prevalent cause of heel discomfort, assuming every heel ache falls into this category can delay proper diagnosis and treatment. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we emphasize understanding the [...] Read More
MLS Laser Therapy Explained: How Light Helps Healing
Advancements in medical technology have revolutionized how we treat foot and ankle conditions, and MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy is one such innovation. This non-invasive, drug-free therapy harnesses specific wavelengths of light to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we use MLS Laser Therapy as part of a [...] Read More
Top 5 Foot Problems in Phoenix, AZ – and How a Local Podiatrist Can Help
Living in Phoenix? Your Feet Deserve Special Attention Between long hikes, extreme heat, and active lifestyles, Phoenix residents put their feet through a lot. That’s why it’s no surprise our podiatry clinic treats a wide range of foot conditions unique to this desert climate. If you're looking for a trusted podiatrist in Phoenix, AZ, here [...] Read More
The 7 Most Common Foot Injuries in Athletes and How to Prevent Them
Athletes rely heavily on their feet to perform, making them particularly vulnerable to foot injuries. From sprains to stress fractures, the foot and ankle are subject to intense impact, repetitive motion, and sudden directional changes, especially in high-intensity sports. Identifying the most common foot injuries and understanding how to prevent them can keep athletes active, [...] Read More
What Are Corns and Calluses, and How Do You Treat Them?
Corns and calluses are two of the most common skin conditions affecting the feet. Though they share similarities, they are distinct conditions that require proper understanding and care to treat effectively. These thickened areas of skin develop as a natural response to repeated pressure or friction, but without proper management, they can lead to discomfort, [...] Read More
When Flat Feet Become a Problem: Signs You Need Professional Help
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While flat feet are a natural variation in foot structure for many individuals, they can lead to complications when not properly addressed. Knowing when to seek professional help is key to preventing [...] Read More
Cracked Heels and Couch Potatoes: Why Your Feet Hate Lazy Weekends
There’s nothing wrong with taking it easy after a long week. In fact, a little rest and recovery is essential for overall well-being. But if your version of the perfect weekend includes two days of non-stop couch lounging, skipped showers, and barefoot trips around the house, your feet might be paying the price. What seems [...] Read More
5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Ignore Foot Pain
Foot pain can be easy to dismiss, especially if it’s mild or seems temporary. However, ignoring persistent foot discomfort can lead to significant health complications that impact mobility, overall well-being, and quality of life. Our feet endure constant pressure and play a critical role in keeping us active, so addressing foot pain promptly is essential [...] Read More
The Science of Shoe Inserts: How Orthotics Can Change Your Life
Orthotics, commonly referred to as shoe inserts, are far more than simple cushioning for your feet. These biomechanically engineered devices can significantly improve your quality of life, offering relief from pain, enhanced mobility, and prevention of long-term complications. Whether you’re dealing with chronic foot pain or seeking better support for everyday activities, orthotics could be [...] Read More
Managing Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Prevention, Treatment, and Care Tips
Diabetic foot ulcers are one of the most serious complications for individuals with diabetes, often leading to infections and even amputations if not properly managed. However, with the right prevention strategies and treatment, these ulcers can be effectively managed. Causes of Diabetic Foot Ulcers 1. Neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy causes a loss of sensation in the [...] Read More
Understanding Small-Fiber Neuropathy: Signs, Diagnosis, and Hope
If you’ve been feeling unexplained burning pain, tingling, or numbness in your feet, legs, or hands, you’re not alone. These may be early signs of a condition called Small-Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) — a type of peripheral neuropathy that affects millions of people across the United States. Unlike traditional neuropathy, which impacts large nerves, small-fiber neuropathy specifically damages the tiny nerve fibers responsible for sensation [...] Read More
Top 10 Foot Care Tips for Active Adults
For adults leading an active lifestyle, foot care is critical to avoid injuries, pain, and to maintain optimal mobility. Our feet endure substantial pressure and strain, especially for those who regularly engage in sports, hiking, or any form of physical activity. Proper foot care not only enhances performance but also ensures long-term health and resilience. [...] Read More
Bunions 101: Everything You Need to Know
A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is more than just a bump on the side of your foot. It’s a complex foot deformity that can cause significant pain, mobility issues, and even affect your quality of life if left untreated. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what bunions are, how they develop, their symptoms, [...] Read More
6 Ways to Prevent and Treat Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common yet painful condition that can affect anyone, leading to discomfort, swelling, and even infection. When the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it can cause irritation, pain, and in some cases, more serious issues. While ingrown toenails can often be managed with proper care, prevention is always [...] Read More