Tuesday, 10 December 2024 00:00

Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the soles of the feet, often causing dry, itchy, and thickened skin. Unlike the classic form of athlete’s foot, which typically appears between the toes, or a type that causes blisters on the sole of the foot, moccasin-type covers the bottom and sides of the foot, resembling the fit of a moccasin. This type can cause scaling, cracking, and even a rough texture that may extend to the heels. Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is stubborn and can be difficult to treat, as the fungus may penetrate deeper skin layers. People with sweaty feet, compromised immune systems, or a history of foot infections are at higher risk. Treatment often involves topical antifungal creams or, in persistent cases, oral antifungals. To prevent recurrence, keeping feet clean, dry, and wearing breathable shoes is essential. If you have developed what seems to be a fungal infection on your feet, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

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. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic.  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 Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Athlete's Foot
Tuesday, 03 December 2024 00:00

For restaurant workers, wearing the right footwear is essential for both comfort and safety. Long hours spent on hard, slippery floors can put significant strain on the feet, legs, and lower back. Proper footwear helps to cushion the feet, reduce fatigue, and prevent injuries such as sprains, strains, and blisters. Shoes with good arch support, non-slip soles, and a proper fit can improve posture and alignment, reducing the risk of developing chronic pain or foot conditions. Additionally, slip-resistant shoes help prevent accidents in environments where spills and wet floors are common. Over time, wearing inadequate footwear can lead to more serious problems such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or even stress fractures. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury during your workday, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate footwear choices.

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. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot 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 Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
Sunday, 01 December 2024 00:00

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Tuesday, 26 November 2024 00:00

A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions. They treat a wide range of foot issues, from common ailments to more complex conditions. Gait analysis is one important service provided, where the podiatrist observes a patient’s walking pattern to identify abnormalities or issues that may cause pain or lead to injury. Podiatrists also perform procedures such as partial nail avulsion, a technique used to remove a portion of a toenail to treat painful ingrown nails. For warts or verrucas on the feet, swift verruca treatment is a popular option, using microwave technology to target and treat the infection. Additionally, podiatrists help manage conditions like flat feet and heel pain, offering solutions such as custom orthotics, stretching exercises, or lifestyle changes to improve foot health and alleviate discomfort. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat various foot conditions.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

 

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?

Connect With Us