Items filtered by date: December 2022

Athlete’s foot is a common foot condition that can affect people from all walks of life. Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly, and it develops due to a fungal infection. The fungus that is associated with athlete’s foot lives and breathes in warm and moist environments consisting of public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. The fungus enters the body and infects the top layer of skin on the feet. It can cause itchiness and redness, and in severe cases, small blisters may form. Preventive measures can include washing and drying the feet daily and wearing appropriate shoes while in these areas. Additionally, it is beneficial to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, or towels, and using a disinfecting spray for the inside of the shoes may help to eliminate the fungus. Patients with this condition are urged to consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe effective medication to treat athlete’s foot.

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 Philip Hahn, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Texarkana, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

One of the most common side effects of pregnancy is swollen feet. It happens as a result of increased fluids that are necessary for the fetus’s development, and can be quite uncomfortable. It often becomes worse as the pregnancy progresses, which may happen from the pressure the growing baby puts on the veins. The majority of women cannot prevent swollen feet from occurring during their pregnancy, although there are methods that can be implemented which can reduce its severity. Walking during the day is instrumental in maintaining good circulation, and drinking plenty of water daily can help to shed excess sodium. Sleeping on the left side may take pressure off of the vein that causes the swelling, and wearing compression socks may lead the feet to feeling better. If you would like more information about how to reduce swollen feet, please ask a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Texarkana, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The importance of practicing everyday foot care is crucial for people who have diabetes. This can begin by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by inspecting the bottom of the feet by using a mirror. If a family member or caregiver is available, they can also help with this. Neuropathy is a common condition for diabetic patients to develop and this is a nerve disorder that causes the inability to feel existing cuts or scrapes on the feet. If these cuts do not receive the prompt medical attention they need, they can become infected and ultimately lead to a diabetic foot ulcer. It is beneficial to properly trim the toenails weekly as this may help to prevent a painful ingrown toenail from developing. Additionally, it is suggested that diabetic patients always wear shoes and socks as well as frequently elevate the legs to help increase circulation. Diabetic patients are urged to be under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and manage this condition.

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 Philip Hahn, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 Texarkana, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The most common type of nail disorder is known as onychomycosis, which is the medical term for toenail fungus. It can be an unsightly foot condition, and many people may choose to wear shoes that have a closed toe to conceal the toenails. The noticeable symptoms that most patients experience consist of yellowed toenails which have become thick, and in severe cases, may fall off. There may also be black or white spots at the bottom of the nail, which may spread to the entire surface. Toenail fungus is considered to be contagious, and is often found in warm and moist environments. These can include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. It is strongly advised that appropriate shoes such as flip flops or water shoes be worn while in these types of areas, which may help to stop the spread of toenail fungus. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials, and use disinfectants and antifungal powder inside the shoes to help the feet feel better. If you see the beginning signs of toenails fungus, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment methods.

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 Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 our office located in Texarkana, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.