Items filtered by date: November 2024

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that primarily affects the skin between the toes and the soles of the feet. It is characterized by symptoms such as intense itching, burning sensations, and redness. The skin may become dry, flaky, or cracked, and blisters can form in more severe cases. This condition thrives in warm, moist environments, making public showers and swimming pools common sources of infection. To relieve symptoms, it is vital to keep the feet clean and dry, as moisture can cause the problem. For persistent infections, consulting a podiatrist for stronger medications may be necessary. Practicing good foot hygiene and wearing breathable footwear can help prevent future outbreaks. If you have developed this uncomfortable condition, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat athlete’s foot, often with 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 Patrice Antero, DPM from Tuscany Podiatry.  Our doctor 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 office located in Tuscaloosa, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures of the foot and ankle are small cracks in the bone that result from repetitive force or overuse. These injuries often occur in athletes and active individuals due to increased activity levels without adequate rest. The foot and ankle contain two types of bone, which are the cortical bone and trabecular bone. Cortical bone is the dense outer layer that provides strength, while trabecular bone is the spongy inner structure that absorbs shock and distributes loads. When excessive stress is placed on these bones, especially the trabecular bone, tiny fractures can develop leading to pain and swelling. Understanding the biomechanics behind stress fractures is essential for prevention and treatment. If you have sustained a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Patrice Antero, DPM from Tuscany Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Poor circulation in the feet can result from several underlying health issues, significantly impacting overall well-being. Atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup, restricts blood flow and can lead to inadequate circulation in the lower extremities. High blood pressure is another contributing factor, as it can damage blood vessels over time, further impeding blood flow. Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a narrowing of the arteries specifically in the legs and feet, leading to pain and numbness during physical activity. Heart failure can also cause poor circulation, as the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, resulting in reduced blood supply to the extremities. If you have poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective treatment solutions.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Patrice Antero, DPM of Tuscany Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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