Athlete’s foot is a fungal invasion that thrives in warm, sweaty conditions. Whether you are an athlete or just someone who wears the same shoes too often, this infection can sneak up on you. It often starts as dry, peeling skin between the toes, but soon, the itching, burning, and cracking begin. In severe cases, blisters or a foul odor can develop, making every step miserable. Worse, the fungus can spread to toenails or even hands, if left untreated. Avoiding athlete’s foot means keeping feet dry, changing socks regularly, and wearing breathable shoes. Mild antifungals help, but persistent cases may need prescription medication. If your feet feel like they are under attack, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for more advanced treatment.

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 Foot & Ankle Medical Center . 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 our office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, causing nerve damage in the feet and legs. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and sharp or stabbing pain. As nerve function declines, you may lose feeling in your feet, making it harder to detect injuries or pressure points. This lack of sensation can lead to foot ulcers, open sores that often develop on the bottom of the feet. These ulcers can become infected if not treated properly, leading to more serious health issues. A podiatrist plays an essential role in managing diabetic neuropathy and preventing foot ulcers. This type of doctor can assess your feet for signs of nerve damage, provide treatment for ulcers, and recommend appropriate wound care. Additionally, they can help with custom orthotics to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas, and offer advice on proper footwear to prevent further injury. Regular foot exams and monitoring foot health can help catch issues early before they develop into more severe problems. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

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 Medical Center . 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 office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Fibromyalgia can cause persistent foot pain, often affecting the heels, arches, toes, and ankles. This chronic disorder heightens sensitivity in the nervous system, making weight-bearing activities uncomfortable. Many patients experience aching, burning, or stabbing sensations in their feet, which can fluctuate in intensity. Stiffness, swelling, and tenderness are also common, particularly in the morning or after prolonged standing. Poor circulation, common in fibromyalgia, may contribute to cold feet or a tingling sensation. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or prolonged pressure on the feet can worsen symptoms, making everyday movement difficult. While fibromyalgia does not directly damage the foot’s structure, ongoing pain and discomfort can alter walking patterns, leading to strain in the ankles and an increased risk of imbalance. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics, recommend supportive footwear, and provide custom orthotics to ease discomfort. They may also suggest additional treatments to improve mobility and alleviate pain. If you have foot pain connected to fibromyalgia, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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