Items filtered by date: April 2019

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin, often causing severe itching and discomfort. Many people are affected between the toes or on the bottom of the feet and wearing shoes and socks for the majority of the day can be uncomfortable. The infection generally appears to be a red rash, and blisters may form in severe cases. This fungus will typically enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin, and it is known to be contagious. It thrives in places that are warm and moist, and these often include community pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of environments, which may be helpful in the prevention of this condition. If you have developed Athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

 

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Tuesday, 23 April 2019 00:00

Toe Curls and Yoga for the Toe

Research has indicated it is easier to run when the feet are healthy. Stretching the feet frequently will help the feet to become strong and may positively affect the overall health of the body. When proper foot stretches are performed, the feet become stable, and running extended distances may be easier to achieve. There are several exercises that are designed to strengthen the feet. When toe curling is practiced, the entire foot becomes stronger, and can be done while standing or sitting down. An effective stretch for the toes is referred to as toe yoga. This is accomplished by moving the toes one at a time and will help in keeping the top of the foot strong. If you would like additional information about the benefits of stretching the feet, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can provide you with the correct knowledge.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

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Wednesday, 17 April 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Monday, 15 April 2019 00:00

Causes of Cracked Heels

Severely dry skin on the feet may lead to cracked heels. Bleeding, in addition to pain and discomfort can occur as a result of this ailment. Other symptoms may include hard, yellowed skin, and the skin may appear flaky as well. There are several reasons why cracked heels may develop. These can include standing for extended periods of time for the majority of the day, wearing shoes that have an open back, or having an existing medical conditions such as flat feet or a thyroid disorder. Mild relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer. If the pain becomes severe, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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 Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor 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 office located in Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels

Arthritis in the feet may cause pain and discomfort, and having surgery performed may be an option for relief. Broken bones may occur as a result of bones that are weak, and surgery may be necessary to reposition the bone so the healing process can take place. A procedure that is referred to as arthroscopic debridement may aid in removing inflamed tissue on the affected joints. Additionally, some patients may benefit from joint fusion. This consists of removing a portion of the bone where it connects to the joint, and replacing it with pins. This may alleviate pain and provide additional support for maintaining strong bones. If you are experiencing pain or arthritis in your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can recommend the type of foot surgery that is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read more about Foot and Ankle Surgery
Wednesday, 03 April 2019 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Monday, 01 April 2019 00:00

Methods of Proper Foot Measurement

It is important to have your feet properly measured before purchasing a pair of shoes. Research has indicated that many people may often wear shoes that do not fit exactly right, and this may affect the overall health of the body. An effective way of choosing the correct shoe size may start with placing your foot on a piece of paper. This can be followed by tracing the foot to include the length and width, and this may be helpful in determining what size shoes can be purchased. An additional method may be to use a Brannock device, which can be found at the majority of shoe stores. If you would like to learn the importance on how to properly measure your feet, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can provide additional information.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan from Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

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