Symptoms and Causes of Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system. The nerves become damaged and as a result, this type of neuropathy develops. The symptoms that accompany neuropathy include numbness, tingling or a burning sensation and will most often affect the feet. Additional symptoms may include a loss of balance and it’s common to experience weakness. There are several causes that may promote the onset of this ailment, including a vitamin deficiency, kidney failure, shingles, or alcoholism. Additionally, this condition may be the result of certain chemotherapy drugs that are taken. It’s important to have a correct diagnosis performed so the proper medication can be taken to alleviate the symptoms. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if your feet are affected by neuropathy.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
- Claudication (leg pain from walking)
- Numbness in legs
- Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
- Paleness of the skin
- Erectile dysfunction
- Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
- Coldness in one leg
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The Importance of Caring for Elders’ Feet
Daily activities may be more difficult to accomplish when the feet experience pain or discomfort. The feet are the foundation of the body, and research has shown that if they are properly taken care of the general health of the body will benefit. Elderly people may have difficulty in trimming their toenails correctly due to the inability to bend low enough to reach the feet. A condition referred to as neuropathy may produce numbness and tingling which may make it challenging to feel any pain or discomfort that may be present. This is one of the reasons why it’s important to take notice of any sores or changes of color on the feet, as this may possibly indicate serious health issues. Additionally, when good foot hygiene is practiced, the feet will not only feel good, but it may possibly prevent certain foot conditions from developing. This can be achieved by washing and soaking the feet in warm water, drying them completely, and then applying a moisturizer.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Elderly and their FeetWhy Do Bunions Develop?
A bunion is an abnormal growth that forms on the bottom of the big toe. Typical symptoms include swelling, pain, and redness surrounding the area of the big toe, and the entire foot may change shape as a result of the bunion. Choosing to wear poorly fitting shoes may cause this condition to develop, in addition to having a family history of bunions. This ailment may be prevented by wearing shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move freely, and shoes with a lower heel are preferred. If you enjoy running or jogging, your feet should be properly supported in running shoes that fit correctly. It’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who is skilled in properly diagnosing this condition. Treatment options can be discussed, which may include custom-made orthotics for temporary relief or surgery for removal of the bunion.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
- Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
- Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
- Redness and inflammation
- Pain and tenderness
- Callus or corns on the bump
- Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes and Symptoms of Heel Spurs
A condition referred to as a heel spur is typically caused by repetitive stress placed on the foot. Gradually, a small protrusion forms on the bottom of the heel, and often produces severe pain. As a result, walking may become difficult, which may affect the gait. Research has shown that it is suggested to stop the activity that has caused the heel spur to develop, followed by implementing proper treatment methods. These may consist of injections that to provide relief, in addition to performing stretching techniques that may help in maintaining an accepted level of comfort. Surgery may be an additional option for permanently removing the heel spur and improving the general mobility of the entire foot. Most patients experience heel pain which typically precedes a proper diagnosis, and should not be ignored. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to properly treat heel spurs.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
If the side of the toenail has grown into the skin, you may have a condition referred to as an ingrown toenail. It is typically a painful ailment and is often amplified when touched or put into a shoe. There are several causes for this to develop, including toenails that are improperly trimmed, wearing shoes that fit poorly, or a predisposed inherited gene in which the toenails may naturally curl. It is generally simple to notice if you are afflicted with this condition: observe the surrounding area of the nail to see if it is red, swollen, and painful. Treating the toenail as soon as possible can help ease discomfort, and this can be accomplished by soaking the foot in lukewarm water several times during the day. An infection may be avoided by applying an antiseptic on the toe and following by placing a small piece of cotton on the toe for protection. Consult a podiatrist if you have developed an ingrown toenail for more information on treatment options and care.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
If you have fallen and have experienced severe pain at the top of the foot, you may have what is referred to as a broken toe. Additionally, this may occur if a heavy object has fallen on the toe and will often appear bruised and swollen. Fractures that are severe may cause the toe to become displaced, causing the toe to look deformed. It’s important to begin treatment of this condition as quickly as possible, often beginning with taking weight off the toe. At this point, the toe can be splinted to the toe next to it, which will restrict any movement from occurring. To properly diagnose this ailment, an X-ray may be performed to observe the severity of the fracture. If the big toe is broken, a walking boot may be suggested to be worn, typically for 2-4 weeks. If you feel you have broken your toe, please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease
If your pre-teen child experiences heel pain, it may be a condition known as Sever’s disease. This condition typically affects children between eight and fourteen years of age, and recent research has shown that it occurs in males slightly more than females. You may notice your child limping especially after a running activity, and heel pain may be noticed if a sports game is participated in. This ailment is typically related to physically active teens. It’s beneficial to rest between physical activities, which may enable the heel to obtain adequate comfort. If your child is hindered by this condition, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information and proper treatment options.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
What is a Plantar Wart?
If you have a sore that produces pain on the bottom of your foot, you may have what is referred to as a plantar wart. A plantar wart generally causes severe discomfort and is caused by a virus that thrives in moist and warm environments. This type of wart will typically develop on the heel or ball of the foot, which can result in painful walking. It grows into the heel as a result of the pressure endured while walking, which is contrary to other types of warts that grow out. These types of warts originate from a virus that is known to be contagious and is generally found on wet surfaces. Common areas the virus may live on may include public showers, pools and surrounding surfaces. If you have this condition, it’s suggested to learn about preventive measures, including wearing appropriate shoes in showering areas, pools, and saunas. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about plantar warts and the correct treatment options for you.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Corn?
A small mass of skin that develops between the toes or on the pinky toe is generally referred to as a corn. If you have a corn you may experience severe pain, which typically happens when shoes that are worn do not fit correctly. Corns develop as a result of the pressure that a tight fitting shoe may create, causing the nerves to react with extreme pain. The color appears to be white, yellow or gray, and the consistency is typically hard and dense. Corns commonly develop as a result of constant friction against the skin, which often comes from poorly fitting shoes. Additionally, it's recommended that high heels are avoided, because the toes need adequate room to move. A consultation with podiatrist is suggested for proper treatment options and additional information about corns.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
A condition referred to as flat feet is a result of arches that have dropped. It can cause a feeling of tiredness in the feet and ankles, in addition to moderate aches and pains. If the entire foot touches the ground while standing, chances are favorable that you may have this ailment. The purpose of the arch is to raise the middle of the foot, which is comprised of tendons, bones, ligaments, and muscles. When the arch develops correctly, the foot is able to balance, walk, and run, in addition to the ability to absorb any physical shock the feet may endure. Most babies are born with flat feet that generally disappear as the child progresses in age. There are several reasons why this condition may occur in adults, including injuries that affect the joints and tissues, damage the foot or ankle may have incurred, or a predisposed inherited gene. If pain is experienced or you have noticed the arches have collapsed, contact your podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
How to Treat Blisters on the Feet
Typically, blisters on the feet are caused by repeated friction, commonly due to wearing poorly fitting shoes. Occasionally, there may be other conditions present such as hammertoes or bunions, which may alter the structure of the foot. Blisters can be avoided by choosing shoes with a wide area for the toes, in addition to checking the lining of the shoe, confirming that the seams are not raised. This ailment is more likely to develop if the feet are moist, which typically softens the skin. This may cause the skin to tear, providing the right environment for blisters to form. If you discover that you have a blister, it may be beneficial to cover it with a bandage in addition to eliminating any friction by wearing shoes that fit correctly. Typically, it’s not recommended to pop a blister, because this may lead to infection. If you have blisters on your feet, please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and treatment options.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Types of Hammertoe Surgery
If you have a toe that bends at the joint and points up, you may have what is referred to as a hammertoe. In severe cases where this affliction may affect everyday activities, surgery may be a viable option for relief. There are several different types of surgery that can be performed for the removal of one or more hammertoes. One type of surgery that is effective is referred to as a tendon transfer, and this is executed by pulling the tendon across the toe. This results in the toe becoming straighter. This may be beneficial, as it reduces pain and improves the appearance of the toe. Additionally, another type of surgery is known as a joint resection, and this is performed by possibly removing part of the bone and cutting the tendons and ligaments. If you are suffering from this condition, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to determine if surgery is appropriate for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Foot SurgeryIs There A Connection Between Obesity and Foot Problems?
Recent research has shown that a strong connection exists between conditions concerning the feet and obesity. The feet and ankles experience excessive stress from bearing the body’s additional weight, and concerns such as arthritis and heel pain can be commonplace. The tendons and ligaments may also be affected, and this may possibly cause the desire to exercise to gradually diminish as the weight increases. When foot pain exists, mobility may lessen, and this is often a result of the added pressure the bones of the foot must endure. Being obese may cause a multitude of foot issues, including fallen arches, gout, and tendonitis. If you are affected by this condition, wearing the correct shoes may aid in maintaining comfort. These may include choosing shoes that are wide enough and have ample support, in addition to having proper flexibility and cushioning. It’s advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist if you are affected by obesity and have foot or ankle pain.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Athlete’s Foot
If the skin between the toes starts to become itchy and sore, you may have a condition referred to as athlete’s foot. Athlete's foot is caused by a fungal infection, and may produce unsightly blisters, in addition to cracked and bleeding skin. It’s a contagious infection, and it commonly lingers on shower floors, so it’s advised to wear protective shoes to prevent the fungus from spreading. If you have sweaty feet, you may be susceptible in acquiring this condition. It’s important to treat athlete’s foot as soon as any symptoms appear, and this can be accomplished by using antifungal powders and sprays. There are ways to prevent this condition, including thoroughly drying the feet after washing them in warm water, wearing cotton socks, and using a different towel specifically used for your feet. If you have diabetes or find that general remedies are ineffective, please consult a podiatrist for the best treatment options for severe athlete’s foot.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
