Athlete’s Foot and Work Boots
Athlete’s foot is a pesky affliction of the foot spread by a fungus that may create a rash on your feet. If you wear work boots for your job all day, it is important to know that the fungus causing this infection can fester inside of your work boots. To prevent this from happening, you might consider alternating between different pairs of work boots from day to day. This is ultimately done to keep your work boots dry because when the boots are damp, this facilitates the growth of the fungus. Additionally, you may choose to wear work boots that provide some breathability for your feet in order to minimize the extent to which your feet are sweating and creating moisture. This same method also applies to socks that are worn. If you wear work boots throughout the workday, contact a podiatrist today for more tips and tricks.
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.
Pain in the Ankle While Walking
The ankle is a complex system of bones, tendons, and muscles that connect the leg and the foot. If any one of those elements is compromised, it may result in pain whenever you take a step. If you spend a lot of time running, walking or jumping, some type of pain in the ankle is not uncommon. Most ankle pain is the result of an injury to a muscle, tendon, or ligament. Ankle pain may also be caused by medical conditions, including arthritis, gout, or peripheral neuropathy. An injury, such as a ligament sprain, a muscle strain, or a fractured bone, will likely cause ankle pain and inhibit your ability to walk normally. Pain in the back of the ankle may be connected to an injury of the Achilles tendon. This can become torn, ruptured or inflamed, and severe cases may prevent you from putting any weight on the foot. If you are experiencing ankle pain when you walk, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis. An appropriate treatment plan can then be put into action.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
Foot Pain Prevention for Cyclists
It may seem improbable, but riding a bicycle can cause immense foot pain. The main reason for this pain is that all the force expended during a ride goes through the soles of the feet. For that reason, especially if you ride often and for a long duration, heel and arch pain can develop. Cycling footwear and cleat position are often involved, along with other causes, such as plantar fasciitis. If plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot, is ignored, it also may result in calcium deposits. Biomechanical issues, such as ankle pronation, flat feet, or high arches can lead to Achilles tendonitis. Certain exercises before and after each ride can help to reduce arch soreness, and orthotics can go a long way toward prevention of biomechanical issues. In addition, wearing cycling shoes that fit properly can lower the risk of foot pain. For more information about custom orthotics and foot pain from cycling, please consult a podiatrist.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports 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.
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.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Simple Methods to Maintain Healthy Feet
The majority of people wear shoes for most of the day, and this may contribute to taking the feet for granted. An effective method in practicing everyday foot care can start by feeling your feet with your hands. At this point, it may become noticeable how complex the feet are, as there are twenty six bones, numerous tendons, ligaments, and muscles that are in each foot. The feet are designed to withstand pressure from the weight of the body, and the skin is harder on the feet than anywhere else. Additionally, the toenails provide protection against shoes and socks. With this stated, the importance of maintaining and practicing everyday foot care becomes clear. Washing and drying the feet thoroughly may be helpful in preventing athlete's foot. This can be an uncomfortable foot condition that may be avoided when proper measures are taken. Ingrown toenails can cause severe pain and discomfort, and trimming the toenails properly may reduce the risk of getting this foot condition. If you would like more information about good everyday foot care practices, please confer with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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.
Foot Care Is Essential for Diabetic Patients
Practicing good foot care is essential for most people, and it is especially imperative for diabetic patients. Neuropathy can affect people who are diabetic. This is a condition that causes the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, and scrapes on the feet. If these cuts do not get immediate medical attention, infection may occur, which may lead to gangrene, and possible amputation. Foot care can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a gentle moisturizer. It is beneficial to have the toenails trimmed weekly, in addition to refraining from walking barefoot. Many diabetic patients appreciate the benefits of engaging in a gentle exercise regime, which may help to improve circulation. The importance of wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit correctly cannot be impressed upon enough to restore and maintain proper foot health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and help you to manage this condition.
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 Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Stretching May Help to Prevent Running Injuries
Anyone who enjoys running needs to be aware that an injury can interrupt their daily exercise routine. Many people who have endured a running injury will continue to run making the injury worse. It is helpful to implement effective strategies that can help to prevent running injuries. These can consist of stretching before and after running. Additionally, gradually increasing duration and speed as this can provide the body with flexibility. Strength training is essential to practice, which is an efficient method for building and maintaining muscle strength. Research has shown it is beneficial to eat healthy and balanced foods that have adequate nutrients and vitamins. Running injuries often affect the feet and many people can endure a broken foot or ankle. If you would like more information about how to practice effective methods to prevent running injuries, please confer with a podiatrist.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
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.
Flexible Flat Feet
Most babies are born with flat feet, but the arch fully develops during the teenage years. There are some children that have a joint hypermobility condition, and this is referred to as low muscle tone. This may prevent the arch from developing, which could result in having flat feet in their adult years. One type of flat feet is called flexible flat feet. The ligaments hold the bones in place in addition to supporting the arches. Children who have joint hypermobility do not have the same support as those without it, and the ligaments are more flexible than normal. There are stretches and exercises that can be performed that may help to strengthen the arch. An effective stretch is done by standing up while slightly leaning back. This will propel the muscles in the front of the ankle to become stronger. Additionally, standing on one leg will activate the muscles in the ankle to maintain balance as well as stability. If you have questions about flat feet and would like to learn more about how to perform effective stretches, please schedule a consultation with a 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.
Pain in the Ankle While Walking
The ankle is a complex system of bones, tendons, and muscles that connect the leg and the foot. If any one of those elements is compromised, it may result in pain whenever you take a step. If you spend a lot of time running, walking or jumping, some type of pain in the ankle is not uncommon. Most ankle pain is the result of an injury to a muscle, tendon, or ligament. Ankle pain may also be caused by medical conditions, including arthritis, gout, or peripheral neuropathy. An injury, such as a ligament sprain, a muscle strain, or a fractured bone, will likely cause ankle pain and inhibit your ability to walk normally. Pain in the back of the ankle may be connected to an injury of the Achilles tendon. This can become torn, ruptured or inflamed, and severe cases may prevent you from putting any weight on the foot. If you are experiencing ankle pain when you walk, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis. An appropriate treatment plan can then be put into action.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
More...
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
What Can Cause Ingrown Toenails?
The medical term for the foot condition known as an ingrown toenail is onychocryptosis. It is generally painful and may become infected if prompt treatment is not received. Ingrown toenails develop when the toenail grows into the skin instead of over it. The nail may grow into the skin as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or from trimming the toenails improperly. Many people have toenails that naturally curve, and this can occur due to genetic reasons. Patients who frequently participate in physical activities like ballet dancers, football players, and kickboxing experts may also experience this condition. Additionally, if you injure a toe, the result may be an ingrown toenail. Mild relief may be found when soaking the affected foot in warm water, followed by using a piece of cotton to gently pull the nail away from the skin. This is generally a temporary fix, and medical attention is often needed for complete healing. If you have endured an ingrown toenail, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
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.
Turf Toe Pain
Although the toes are relatively small parts of the body, they are nevertheless important. Therefore, toe pain is nothing to take lightly. Toe pain has a wide variety of different sources and causes. One of these causes is a condition known as turf toe. Turf toe is essentially a spraining of the big toe joint, and it can occur in an individual after the big toe joint is excessively bent upwards. Football players are particularly prone to developing this foot condition. Typically, an individual can develop turf toe after injuring the big toe joint while playing on artificial turf. This turf can be a hard surface for athletes to land on after jumping or running. When an individual suffers from turf toe, they might notice a wide range of symptoms. Commonly, the patient will experience pain in the big toe and significantly restricted big toe joint agility. If you suspect that you might have turf toe, it could be wise to contact a podiatrist who can help you obtain a proper diagnosis. A condition like turf toe is typically diagnosed through a full examination of the affected foot and an X-ray. Treatment for turf toe could be different depending on the specific case. However, ice, compression, and elevation of the foot are common treatment techniques. Contact a podiatrist if you believe that you have turf toe.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In 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.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Types of Arthritis That Can Develop in the Feet
Research has indicated that approximately 50 percent of people who are in their 60’s and 70’s will develop arthritis in their feet. Additionally, if a patient has sustained a foot injury, arthritis may develop more quickly. The most common forms of arthritis in the feet include rheumatoid, gout, osteoarthritis, and posttraumatic. Osteoarthritis typically targets people who are 60 years or older and produces severe pain in the joints of the toes. It may be worse in the morning after arising and can often become inflamed. Gout is caused by having excess uric acid in the bloodstream that forms crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe. The pain from gout can be debilitating. Rheumatoid arthritis may be triggered by an autoimmune disorder that can cause foot deformities if not treated promptly. If an injury has occurred, it may trigger posttraumatic arthritis, and this may cause pain and discomfort. It is important to control the inflammation and pain with any type of arthritis, and it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment techniques.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
