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.
The medical term for athlete’s foot is tinea pedis. It is an infection caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. This fungus can enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin of the feet and can cause uncomfortable symptoms. These include itchy skin on the bottom of the feet or between the toes, and the affected area may burn. In severe cases, blisters may develop and ooze, and can often appear unsightly. There are measures that can be implemented that may help to prevent athlete’s foot. These can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in public pools, showers, and surrounding areas, in addition to refraining from sharing towels, shoes, and socks. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options.
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 one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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.
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that often result from repetitive force rather than a single injury. While athletes and runners frequently experience them, anyone can be at risk. Individual factors, such as low bone density, poor nutrition, or hormonal imbalances, may weaken the skeleton and make it more vulnerable. Foot shape, including flat feet or high arches, can also increase stress on certain bones, raising the chance of a fracture. Training habits play a major role as well. Sudden increases in activity, running on hard surfaces, or wearing unsupportive shoes can overload the bones before they adapt. Insufficient rest between workouts further compounds the problem, leading to breakdown instead of repair. If you suspect a stress fracture, do not push through the pain. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and guidance on safer training practices.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
Runners
People affected with Osteoporosis
Tennis or basketball players
Gymnasts
High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
Heel pain is a frequent concern, and one common cause is Achilles tendonitis. This condition is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Causes may include overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, or repetitive strain from sports. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, flat feet, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Symptoms often include stiffness, swelling, and pain that worsens with movement. A podiatrist can diagnose the Achilles tendonitis, provide treatment such as targeted stretching exercises or orthotics, and help prevent further injury. If you are struggling with heel pain or suspect you have Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Inflammation
Dull to severe pain
Increased blood flow to the tendon
Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
The medical term for athlete’s foot is tinea pedis. It is an infection caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. This fungus can enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin of the feet and can cause uncomfortable symptoms. These include itchy skin on the bottom of the feet or between the toes, and the affected area may burn. In severe cases, blisters may develop and ooze, and can often appear unsightly. There are measures that can be implemented that may help to prevent athlete’s foot. These can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in public pools, showers, and surrounding areas, in addition to refraining from sharing towels, shoes, and socks. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options.
