April 2023

A rash seen on the skin of the foot may indicate that athletes’ foot has developed. It is a fungal infection, and common symptoms can include itchiness and peeling and is generally uncomfortable. The fungus that causes this condition lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, such as shower room floors, public swimming pools, and similar areas. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of places, and these can be flip flops or water shoes. Athlete’s foot can be divided into three categories. A moccasin-type infection can begin with soreness in the foot, followed by the skin on the heel becoming thickened. If the infection is between the fourth and fifth toes, it could mean a toe web infection has started, and may be accompanied by a bacterial infection. Blisters can be a sign of a vesicular infection and can appear anywhere on the foot. If you have developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine which type it is and offer correct treatment solutions.

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 one of our podiatrists from Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Apopka, Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetics are often at risk of other conditions that negatively affect their feet. These include peripheral neuropathy, which renders the feet numb, and peripheral artery disease, which slows the healing process. Both are the result of maintaining high blood sugar levels. Any sore or bruise on the feet that are not tended to immediately can easily become ulcerous. Termed foot ulcers, these open sores or wounds are usually found on the sole of the foot or the bottom of the big toe. Unless the diabetic’s feet are checked daily for such injuries, they can easily go undetected. An open foot ulcer increases the chance of developing an infection, which in turn can involve deeper layers of the skin, muscles, tendons, bones, and joints. In the most severe cases, surgery is required and loss of a limb is a possibility. If you are at risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who is trained to deal with diabetes-related problems. 

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 Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. 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 one of our offices located in Apopka, Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus is a common foot condition. It is unsightly and contagious and is caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. Places such as public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors are examples of where this type of fungus can live. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas, in addition to refraining from sharing socks, shoes, and towels. One of the first signs toenail fungus is developing is often a white spot on the nail. If prompt treatment is not received, the nail can become thick and brittle and may crumble and fall off. This condition often begins with the big toenail, and can gradually spread to the other nails. It may also spread to the skin on the feet, possibly indicating athlete's foot may have started. If you see the beginning signs of toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer you the correct treatment options, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Apopka, Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are a particular kind of bony bump that can form on the outside of the joint of the big toe or small pinky toe. It is important to note that some types of bunions can cause pain in individuals, while others do not. In this sense, a bunion can be a cosmetic issue for some patients. There are several steps that a patient can consider taking to prevent the formation of bunions. For example, an individual can be mindful of the shoes that they are wearing. Particularly tight shoes can lead to bunions developing. Instead, an individual can be sure to wear shoes that are spacious and comfortable. Secondly, an individual might be able to prevent the development of bunions by doing what they can to stop overpronation. Importantly, overpronation can occur when the foot rolls inward. Orthotics may be used to correct this. If you are someone that is struggling with bunions, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Apopka, Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.