April 2020

The area of the feet that athlete's foot impacts is generally between the toes, and on the sole of the foot. It is considered to be a fungal infection, and can be extremely contagious. This type of fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, and can typically be found in public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Patients who have experienced athlete’s foot often notice a red and itchy rash, and in severe cases, blisters may develop as well. Relief may be found in mild cases when an antifungal powder or cream is applied. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of places, which can help to prevent the spreading of athlete’s foot. If you are afflicted with this condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe the correct medication for you.

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 Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. 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 Nederland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated that a common cause of foot pain is inflammation. This may be a result of arthritis, and could happen from an immune disorder. Gout is a painful foot condition, and is considered to be a form of arthritis. It occurs as a result of excess uric acid levels in the blood, and may be caused by eating foods that have high purine levels. Psoriasis is a skin condition which may cause psoriatic arthritis, and the joints, tendons, and ligaments are often impacted. If you are experiencing pain in your feet, it is necessary to receive prompt and effective treatment. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to properly diagnose this ailment, and to help you find relief.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

A broken foot, or foot fracture, generally occurs as a result of falling, or if a heavy object has dropped on the foot. This is considered to be a common injury, and there are noticeable symptoms that often accompany this type of fracture. These can include severe pain and discomfort, an abnormal foot shape, swelling, and it may be difficult to move your foot. A proper diagnosis is needed in order to confirm a broken foot has occurred. This consists of having an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI taken. At this point, proper treatment can begin, which involves wearing a boot, cast, or splint. Any of these options may be helpful in providing the stability that is needed as the healing process takes place. Moderate relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, as this may help to reduce existing swelling. If you have broken your foot, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so they can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Flat feet is a common ailment among many people. Most babies are born with flat feet, and the arch will generally develop during the early teenage years. It is defined as a condition where the arch is absent from the foot. This can be noticed while standing, if the entire foot touches the floor. Many patients who have flat feet have little or no symptoms. Other patients may find they have trouble walking, and their feet may feel stiff and weak. Moderate relief may be found when shoes that are worn fit properly, and it may be beneficial to practice specific foot stretches which may help to strengthen the feet. If you have symptoms of flat feet, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Pete O’Donald, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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