Items filtered by date: June 2024

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It occurs due to the growth of dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, showers, and even sweaty shoes. Symptoms include itching, burning, and stinging sensations, in addition to red, scaly, and cracked skin. Sometimes, it can also cause blisters or ulcers. Athletes and individuals who frequently wear tight-fitting shoes or who have sweaty feet are at higher risk. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination, and sometimes a skin scraping to confirm the presence of the fungus. Possible relief can include antifungal creams, powders, or sprays, and in more severe cases, oral medications. To prevent athlete’s foot, keep feet clean and dry, change socks regularly, wear breathable footwear, and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas. If you have athlete’s foot with persistent or severe symptoms, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for advanced treatment which often includes prescribed medication.
 

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 Podiatry Associates of Texas.  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 Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle injuries can range from minor sprains to severe fractures. Broken ankles, or fractures, typically involve one or more of the three bones that make up the ankle joint. Specifically, they are the tibia and fibula in the leg, and the talus in the foot. The most common types of ankle fractures are lateral malleolus fractures, which affect the fibula. Medial malleolus fractures affect the tibia and bimalleolar fractures involve both the leg bones. Fractures that result in joint instability, may require surgery to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of long-term complications, like arthritis. Rarer types of ankle fractures, such as trimalleolar fractures, Maisonneuve, or spiral, fractures, and talus fractures present their own unique challenges and treatment approaches. Symptoms of a fractured ankle include pain to touch, swelling, bruising and an inability to bear weight. If you have sustained a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment recommendations.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Texas. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are characterized by dry, thickened skin on the heels that splits or cracks. This condition often occurs due to factors such as dry weather, excessive standing or walking, improper footwear, or lack of proper foot care. When the skin becomes dry and loses its elasticity, it can crack under pressure, leading to painful fissures that may bleed or become infected, if left untreated. Prevention of cracked heels involves regular moisturizing to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Use a thick, emollient foot cream or lotion containing ingredients like urea or glycerin to help soften and moisturize dry skin. Exfoliating the heels regularly with a pumice stone or foot file can help remove dead skin cells and prevent the buildup of calluses. Additionally, wearing properly fitting shoes with adequate support and cushioning can reduce pressure on the heels and minimize the risk of developing cracked heels. If you have developed cracked heels that persist or become infected, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Texas. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot infections from diabetes often stem from foot ulcers, open sores that develop due to poor circulation, and nerve damage linked to diabetes. If not properly managed, these ulcers can become infected and lead to serious health risks. Prevention is vital and involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels to enhance circulation and nerve function. Regular foot inspections are needed to catch ulcer formation early. Prevention strategies include daily foot cleaning and careful observation to identify changes before they worsen. Wearing appropriate footwear that reduces pressure points can also help prevent ulcers. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, also play an important role in diabetic foot care. These doctors can conduct regular check-ups to detect potential problems, recommend diabetic shoes, and teach proper foot care techniques. They will ensure that any foot concerns are addressed promptly. If you are at risk for diabetic foot ulcers or suspect a foot ulcer, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

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 Podiatry Associates of Texas. 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 Arlington Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Farmers Branch, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.