Items filtered by date: July 2024

Preventing blisters is key to maintaining foot comfort, especially for active individuals. Symptoms often include a painful, fluid-filled sac on the skin caused by friction or ill-fitting footwear. To avoid blisters, choose shoes that fit well and break them in gradually. Moisture-wicking socks and blister prevention products like moleskin or blister pads can reduce friction. If a blister does develop, resist the urge to pop it as it can increase the risk of infection. Instead, keep it clean and covered with a bandage. For pain relief, over-the-counter creams or pain relievers can help. Persistent or severe blisters may require attention from a podiatrist, who can provide expert care and guidance. They can recommend appropriate footwear, assess underlying causes, and offer treatments like draining the blister safely to promote healing and prevent complications. If you suffer from blisters, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a treatment plan.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Scott Peters of Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ignoring foot pain can lead to serious health issues, as it may indicate underlying conditions including psoriatic arthritis, diabetes, gout, or blood clots. Psoriatic arthritis causes joint pain and swelling, leading to permanent damage if untreated. In diabetes, foot pain might signal neuropathy or the onset of ulcers, necessitating immediate attention to prevent severe complications. Gout manifests as sudden, intense pain due to uric acid crystal buildup, requiring management to avoid chronic joint damage. Blood clots in the legs can cause pain and swelling, posing a risk of life-threatening complications if they travel to the lungs. Addressing foot pain promptly ensures proper diagnosis and effective treatment, preventing minor issues from escalating into serious conditions. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Scott Peters  from Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Working on your feet while pregnant presents unique challenges that require special attention to maintain comfort and health. Although standing all day is generally thought to be safe for most pregnant women, taking breaks to sit or move around can significantly ease the strain on your body. That said, if you are at a high risk of preterm delivery or have concerns about your baby's growth, it is essential to avoid prolonged standing. For those who need to stand for extended periods, positioning and movement are important to note. Keep your knees soft, space your legs apart, and engage your core muscles to reduce pressure on the knees and feet. Periodically move your legs by walking or shifting weight to help maintain blood circulation and minimize swelling. Elevating one foot on a low stool can also alleviate lower back stress. Comfortable footwear with good arch support and a low heel is essential, in addition to wearing compression socks to enhance blood flow and reduce swelling. If you experience foot pain or unusual swelling after working on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and options for treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Scott Peters from Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by the compression of the tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space on the inside of the ankle. This tunnel houses several vital structures, including the tibialis posterior tendon, the flexor digitorum longus tendon, and the posterior tibial artery and vein. When the tibial nerve is compressed, it can lead to pain, tingling, and numbness in the foot. The tibialis posterior tendon helps support the arch of the foot, while the flexor digitorum longus tendon aids in flexing the toes. The posterior tibial artery and vein are essential for blood circulation to the foot. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Scott Peters of Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the feet, particularly the big toe. It leads to sudden, severe pain, in addition to redness and swelling. Gout predominantly affects middle-aged men and postmenopausal women, especially those with a diet high in purines, a substance found in red meat and alcohol. The condition is often diagnosed through blood tests measuring uric acid levels and joint fluid analysis to detect urate crystals. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, or colchicine. Long-term management includes medications like allopurinol or febuxostat to lower uric acid levels. For foot-specific care, patients may elevate the affected foot and wear comfortable, supportive footwear to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Preventing gout involves maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding foods high in purines. Regular exercise and weight management are also critical. If you have gout that is negatively impacting your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for specialized care and tailored advice.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Scott Peters from Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.