Items filtered by date: May 2024

Toenail fungus, medically termed onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that commonly affects the toenails. It is typically caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments like sweaty shoes or public swimming pools. When these fungi invade the toenail bed, they can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail. Symptoms may include yellowing or darkening of the nail, a distorted shape, and a foul odor. Certain factors increase the risk of developing toenail fungus. Among them are age, poor circulation, weakened immune system, and frequent exposure to moist environments. Common types of fungal infections include distal subungual onychomycosis, white superficial onychomycosis, proximal subungual onychomycosis, and candida onychomycosis. Treatment typically involves prescribed antifungal medications, either topical or oral, depending on the severity of the infection. In severe cases, surgical removal of the nail may be necessary. If you think you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment at your earliest convenience.

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 our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle 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 Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain, a common foot ailment, can significantly impact mobility and daily activities. Typically located on the underside or back of the heel, it can stem from various causes, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, or stress fractures. One prevalent reason for morning discomfort is the tightening of the plantar fascia ligament during sleep, leading to a sharp pain upon first steps. However, not all heel pains are alike. Pain can manifest in different areas such as the bottom, sides, or back of the heel, each indicating distinct issues. Ignoring persistent discomfort may exacerbate the condition and hinder natural healing processes. Fortunately, several remedies exist, including rest, stretching exercises, proper footwear, and custom orthotics. If you have persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peroneal tendonitis is inflammation of the peroneal tendons along the outside of the ankle, often due to overuse or sudden increases in activity. Athletes, particularly runners and dancers, are prone to this condition. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness along the outside of the ankle, especially during physical activity. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging tests, and assessment of medical history. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and exercises to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. In severe cases, immobilization or corticosteroid injections may be necessary. A podiatrist can provide expert diagnosis and treatment, offering personalized rehabilitation strategies to alleviate symptoms and prevent the recurrence of peroneal tendonitis. If you have pain on the outside of your ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for care.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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