October 2023

Foot blisters are pockets of fluid that form on the skin's surface, and can turn a pleasant walk or workout into a painful experience. These common nuisances are often the result of friction or repeated rubbing on the skin. When the skin experiences excessive pressure or friction, the top layer separates from the layers beneath, trapping a small amount of fluid in the newly formed pocket. Blisters can also be caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, footwear that rubs against the skin, high levels of moisture, or extended periods of physical activity. Understanding the factors that contribute to blister formation is essential for prevention. If you have developed a blister on your foot that has become problematic, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can properly treat it and offer you effective prevention methods. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, or TTS, is a painful condition affecting the feet. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but occurs in the ankle, specifically in the tarsal tunnel. This is defined as a narrow passageway on the inner side of your ankle enclosed by bone and a fibrous band. TTS results from compression or pressure on the tibial nerve, which runs through this confined space. There are specific risk factors that may lead to this condition. These can include an ankle injury, standing for extended periods, or participating in athletic activities. The tibial nerve is responsible for providing sensation to the bottom of your foot and controlling some of the muscles in your calf. When the tibial nerve becomes compressed due to injury, inflammation, or an underlying medical condition, it can lead to a range of distressing symptoms, including tingling, burning pain, and numbness in the foot. Understanding the complexities of tarsal tunnel syndrome is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management, which often involves rest and in some cases, surgical intervention. If you have any form of ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide the best course of treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors 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 offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Osteoarthritis, or OA, which is often associated with aging and wear-and-tear, isn't limited to just the knees and hips. It can also affect the ankle joint, causing pain and mobility issues. Osteoarthritis in the ankle is a chronic condition that develops when the protective cartilage that cushions the bones begins to deteriorate. OA can occur at any time of life, but it is most common in older adults. Being overweight adds stress to your ankles and fat cells produce proteins that may make the condition worse. Any ankle injury, even one that happened years ago, can lead to osteoarthritis. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion, which can significantly affect your daily life. Even simple tasks like walking and climbing stairs can become challenging. Several factors can contribute to ankle osteoarthritis, including previous injuries, genetics, and obesity. Treatment options include medication, physical therapy, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgery. Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease, and for that reason managing it requires a comprehensive approach to reduce pain and maintain mobility. It's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist if you suspect osteoarthritis is affecting your ankles. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

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 offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morning heel pain can have several underlying causes. One of the most common culprits is plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the broad band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. This results in sharp or stabbing pain in the heel that tends to be most intense in the morning. Another source is Achilles tendonitis, which is the inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can be caused by tight calf muscles or overuse. Morning heel pain has also been linked to rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes Inflammation in the foot joints and results in stiffness and discomfort, especially after periods of rest. A stress fracture in the heel bone may also be responsible for morning discomfort. These hairline fractures can cause localized pain that becomes more noticeable when you first put weight on your feet in the morning. Lastly, aging can contribute to morning heel pain, as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments lose some of their flexibility and resilience. If you're experiencing morning heel pain, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please 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.

High heels may be fashionable and elegant but often come at a painful cost for your feet. Several reasons contribute to the discomfort and pain associated with wearing high heels. Inflammation, pain, and calluses can be caused by excessive pressure as the body weight is forced onto the balls of the feet. Additionally, posture may be affected, as wearing high heels can tilt the body forward. This can lead to strained muscles in the arches. Foot conditions such as bunions and hammertoes may develop as pointed-toe high heels can compress the toes. Many people who frequently wear high heels develop a shortened Achilles tendon that may lead to stress on the overall foot and leg. If you have questions or concerns about the effects of high heels and the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.