Tinea pedis, commonly called athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet and between the toes. The condition often develops in warm, damp environments where fungus grows easily, such as sweaty shoes, locker rooms, or around public pool areas. Many people notice peeling skin, itching, redness, cracking, or a burning sensation that becomes worse over time. In some cases, the skin may blister or develop an unpleasant odor. Although athlete’s foot can seem minor at first, untreated infections may spread to the toenails or other parts of the foot, and become more difficult to manage. A podiatrist can identify the infection, rule out other skin conditions that appear similar, and recommend treatment designed to stop the fungus and relieve irritation. Early care may also help prevent recurring infections and skin breakdown. If you continue to experience itching, peeling, or irritation on the feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County .  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.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can often be understood by where it occurs. Pain on the top of the foot may be linked to stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive activity. Inner foot pain can be associated with flat feet, where the arch collapses, or hallux rigidus, a stiff big toe joint that limits movement. Pain on the bottom of the foot may be due to plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that supports the arch, or heel pad syndrome, which causes deep heel discomfort. Outer foot pain may involve peroneal tendonitis or an ankle sprain from overstretched ligaments. Risk factors include overuse, wearing poor footwear, and foot structure. A podiatrist can identify the cause and provide targeted care. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors 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 offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can lead to serious foot problems by affecting circulation and nerve function. Reduced blood flow may slow healing, while peripheral neuropathy can cause numbness, making it difficult to feel injuries. This increases the risk of unnoticed cuts, ulcers, and infections. Risk factors include poor blood sugar control, long-term diabetes, and improper footwear. Daily foot checks and proper foot hygiene are essential for prevention. A podiatrist can monitor changes, treat wounds early, and provide guidance on protective footwear. If you have diabetes and notice changes in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious 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 one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors 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 offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a condition involving inflammation and thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Metatarsalgia is an overall term for pain in the ball of the foot and Morton’s neuroma may cause this type of pain. This pressure on the nerve can lead to sharp pain, burning sensations, or the feeling of standing on a pebble. Causes include repeated irritation from wearing high heels or pointed shoes that compress the forefoot. Risk factors include being female, increasing age, and foot abnormalities such as flat feet or high arches. Symptoms may worsen with walking or wearing tight footwear, and improve with rest. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend footwear changes, provide padding or orthotics, and offer treatment to reduce nerve irritation. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.