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Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition in which fungi infect the nails, causing thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. It often develops in warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and around pools. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, compromised immune systems, nail trauma, and poor foot hygiene. Symptoms may involve yellow or white spots on the nail, crumbling edges, and an unpleasant odor. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other nails or skin. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toenail fungus, provide effective treatments, and recommend preventive strategies. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that…

Heel pain can affect daily movement and comfort. One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes irritated, often leading to sharp pain near the heel bone. Heel spurs, small bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel, can also contribute to heel pain. Other sources include inflammation of the Achilles tendon where it attaches to the heel, and irritation of the protective fat pad that cushions the heel during walking. Long periods of standing, wearing shoes that lack adequate…

Runner’s toe, sometimes called black toenail, occurs when repeated impact causes bleeding beneath the toenail. Long runs, downhill training, or wearing shoes that are too tight can create constant pressure on the toes, leading to bruising and discoloration. At first, the nail may look red or purple, but over time, it can turn dark and become painful. In some cases, the nail may loosen or fall off as new growth pushes through. While the condition is usually not dangerous, it can interfere with training and increase the risk of infection if the nail separates from the skin. Choosing properly fitted…

Chronic ankle instability is a condition where the ankle frequently gives way, especially during physical activity or walking on uneven surfaces. It often develops from recurrent ankle sprains, multiple ligament injuries, or even a first-time ankle sprain at a young age that did not heal properly. Symptoms may include persistent swelling, pain, and a feeling of weakness or looseness in the ankle. A podiatrist can help by assessing joint stability, taking radiographic images, prescribing strengthening exercises, fitting supportive orthotics, and providing treatments to improve balance and prevent future injuries. If chronic ankle instability is limiting your mobility or causing repeated…

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Achilles tendon injuries are often linked to a combination of overuse, biomechanics, and lifestyle factors that place stress on the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel. Sudden changes in activity, such as increasing running mileage or adding explosive movements like jumps, can strain the tendon. Training on different surfaces or changing footwear may also raise the risk of Achilles tendon injuries. Tight or weak calf muscles, excessive inward rolling of the foot called pronation, or chronic ankle instability can all contribute to tendon damage. People with high-arched feet or a small leg-length difference are more prone to injury…

For medical professionals who spend long hours on their feet, the right footwear is essential. Proper shoes can reduce pain, prevent injuries, improve posture and body alignment, enhance stability, reduce the risk of falls, and even boost professional confidence. Supportive, well-fitted footwear helps maintain comfort during demanding shifts, while protecting joints and muscles from strain. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, identify any underlying conditions, and recommend footwear or orthotics tailored to individual needs. Investing in proper shoes not only benefits physical health, but also supports better performance in patient care. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong…

Blisters on the feet are small fluid-filled pockets that form due to friction, heat, or moisture. They often develop from wearing ill-fitting shoes, prolonged walking or running, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Certain skin conditions or infections can also contribute to blister formation. Blisters may appear as raised, clear bumps filled with fluid and can feel tender, sore, or even painful when pressure is applied. If the blister breaks, it may become red, inflamed, or infected, leading to further discomfort. A podiatrist can help by identifying the underlying cause of your blisters and recommending effective treatment. This may include draining…

Walking poles can help protect the feet by lowering the pressure placed on them during long or uneven walks. As the poles shift some of the body weight away from the feet, the impact on the heels, arches, and toes is reduced. This can ease foot fatigue and help prevent injuries linked to overuse or poor shock absorption. On steep or unstable ground, walking poles improve balance, which lowers the chance of twisting an ankle or placing extra stress on the forefoot. People with weak ankles or joint stiffness may notice less discomfort when walking with poles, as the added…

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often caused by walking barefoot in warm, moist environments like locker rooms or pool areas. It spreads easily and thrives in sweaty shoes and socks. Symptoms include itching, redness, peeling, cracking skin, and sometimes blisters or a burning sensation between the toes or on the soles. The skin may look dry, flaky, or scaly and can become painful if left untreated. While mild treatments may help some cases, prescription antifungal medications, which can be topical creams or oral drugs, are often necessary for stubborn or severe infections.…

Gout in children, although uncommon, is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This buildup may result from genetic factors, kidney issues, or certain medications that interfere with uric acid removal. Children with gout may experience sudden joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, most often in the big toe. The pain can be severe and may limit movement. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition through imaging and lab tests, recommending lifestyle changes, and managing symptoms with appropriate treatments. If your child shows signs of foot or ankle joint pain…

Leg and ankle swelling, also known as edema, can result from a variety of causes, including circulation problems, injury, prolonged sitting, or underlying health conditions. It may feel tight, heavy, or uncomfortable, and the skin can appear stretched or shiny. Simple steps like elevating the legs, wearing compression socks, and reducing salt intake can sometimes bring relief. However, persistent or worsening swelling may signal something more serious. Conditions such as vein disease, heart issues, or lymphatic problems can all contribute to fluid buildup in the lower limbs. Because untreated edema can lead to skin damage, discomfort, or infection, ongoing swelling…

Achilles tendon injuries involve damage to the strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. These injuries can range from inflammation to partial or complete tears. Common causes include overuse, sudden increases in activity, tight calf muscles, or improper footwear. Symptoms include heel pain, stiffness, swelling, or a snapping sensation during movement. Risk factors include intense physical activity, poor conditioning, and certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury through examination and imaging, then recommend treatments such as rest, stretching, or orthotics. If you are experiencing pain in the back of the heel, it is…

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves, particularly in the feet. Symptoms typically include numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pain. However, a lesser-known symptom is the loss of temperature sensitivity, which can lead to unrecognized burns from hot surfaces or heating pads. The feet may appear normal or have dry, cracked skin due to reduced sweat production. Over time, nerve damage can lead to muscle weakness and changes in foot shape, increasing the risk of pressure sores or ulcers. A podiatrist diagnoses…

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Foot and ankle pain during multi-day bike rides is common and can affect performance and enjoyment. One issue is hot foot, or burning pain and numbness in the ball of the foot caused by pressure on nerves from wearing tight shoes or long hours of pedaling. Pain along the outside edge of the foot may result from improper foot positioning or cleat alignment. Achilles tendonitis, marked by pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle, often stems from overuse or poor bike fit. A podiatrist can assess biomechanical problems, recommend footwear, and offer custom orthotics to relieve pain. For…

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe pushes against the next toe, causing the joint to stick out and become misaligned. Common causes include genetics, foot structure, arthritis, and wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms of a bunion include pain, swelling, redness, and restricted movement of the big toe. The area may feel sore or irritated, especially when wearing shoes. Over time, the bump can become more pronounced and painful. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and may use…

Recovery from an ankle fracture requires time, support, and the right care to ensure proper healing. Rest is essential, especially in the early stages, to allow the bones to mend without added stress. Protecting the ankle with a cast, boot, or brace helps keep it stable and in proper alignment. Gradual weight bearing, as guided by a podiatrist, is important to rebuild strength without causing further injury. Targeted exercise plays a key role in restoring range of motion, balance, and muscle strength as healing progresses. Following instructions carefully and attending follow-up appointments help track recovery and address any concerns early.…