Surgery and Treatment for Bunions Better today Compared to 15 Years ago
Compared to 15 years ago, bunion surgery has become easier in terms of recovery time and how painful the treatment is. Certain patients are even capable of participating in light sports up to six weeks after surgery. Bunion surgery is used to correct the alignment and bony forces around the toe. Although bunion surgery is very common, it is considered a last resort and is only recommended when daily routines are interrupted and tremendous amounts of pain are felt.
The pain and discomfort caused by bunions can put a halt to everyday activities. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
- Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
- Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any concerns please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Tips to Avoid Blisters from Sandals and Summer Footwear this Season
Leah Bourne of StyleCaster has a few tips in avoiding blisters when wearing sandals. For starters, when purchasing a new pair of sandals, wear them around the house with socks for a few days to stretch them out and ease the friction they will cause on the feet. Using an adhesive bandage on the heels will prevent blisters and scraping on the back of the foot, this should also work if the sandal scrapes against any other part of the foot. Additionally, you can tape moleskin or fabric around any part of the shoe that is causing blisters. Placing clear deodorant, talcum powder, baby oil, or taping cotton balls to the feet near blister prone areas will also help prevent any from occurring.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with blisters on your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a band-aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a doctor.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Flip Flops not the Best Choice of Summer Footwear
Basic foam flip flops are often a staple in many summer wardrobes. Many experts agree, however, that flip flops should be left for lounging around the pool. Often times flip flops and other summer sandals are too flat and do not properly hold the foot place. Support is typically lacking, and because the feet are not strapped in, slipping causes the foot to tense; allowing conditions such as calluses, blisters and corns to form. Summer sandals should have an adjustable strap to secure the foot into place to avoid slipping.
Flip flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any questions concerning the feet, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.
For more information about Flip Flops, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer all the newest in diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle conditions.
Canadians Embarrassed by Toenail Fungus Study Finds
According to a recent study conducted by Leger 360 Marketing, one third of Canadians living with toenail fungus have given up on treating the condition and nearly two thirds of those suffering from the condition are embarrassed about their fungus. In recent years treating toenail fungus has not been very effective since topical treatments applied to the toenail or taken orally have not completely remedied the fungus and can have negative side effects; which may be why so many people have given up on treating the condition. The study also found that 83% of respondents agree that seeing a doctor is the best way to get assistance in treating toenail fungus.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc.. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Young Student Breaks Ankle after Getting Hit by a Car at Bus Stop
A student from Berlin, CT was injured and suffered a broken ankle after running into oncoming traffic. According to the police report, the student was supposed to get onto a school bus, but did not want to go to school.
This resulted in the young boy running into the street where a car swerved to avoid hitting him. The child was then transported to Hartford Hospital where he was treated for a broken ankle. The driver of the car was not charged.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of Green Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress.
There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about broken ankles.
Ryan Zimmerman suffering from Plantar Fasciitis
Washington Nationals’ Ryan Zimmerman was advancing to third base during a game against the Cardinals when he began to hobble. Although Zimmerman continued to play, he seemed less into the game and more so visibly in pain. Manager Matt Williams revealed that Zimmerman has his first case of plantar fasciitis in his left foot.
The chronic pain in the heel and bottom of the foot began only four days ago, but he is now feeling more pain than usual. “I feel fine at the plate. It’s just, obviously, running the bases today wasn’t that great. But we’ll just try to treat it and try to keep it under control until it can go away,” Zimmerman stated.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Dr. Raugellis can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Two Phoenix Suns’ Players Experiencing Ankle Sprains
Ankle injuries are very prevalent in fast-paced sports such as basketball, where repetitive lateral movement allows plenty of room for injury.
Alex Len and Brandon Knight of the Phoenix Suns have both sprained their ankles and consequently missed games. Sprains are typically treated initially with RICE therapy, or rest, ice, compression and elevation. Players returning to the court should tape the ankle or wear an ankle brace to provide additional support to weakened ligaments.
Physical therapy will often follow, with an emphasis on balance training to help strengthen muscles.
Ankle sprains are very pain and inconvenient. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about ankle sprains.
Tips to avoid Running Injuries during Training
Cory Smith of Phillymag calls the transition of the cold winter months into warmer, sunnier weather injury season. It is a time when all runners vamp up their training methods and are more likely to become injured. Smith has created five tips to help runners avoid injury during training.
Patience is key when it comes to running outside again. If you have not been running consistently, slowly start up your routine again to allow muscles to adapt to the stress again. Understand the differences between running on a treadmill and the higher difficulty of running outside. Forcing fitness before the feet and body are ready is a key way to obtain an injury.
Listen to your body, if you feel you need to take a rest day, then take it. If your shoes are worn or inappropriate for outdoor running get new ones that properly fit and function.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury see Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Dr. Raugellis will provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs
Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
Study Finds Older Runners Have a Harder Time Adjusting to Barefoot Running
A new study suggests that acclimating to barefoot running may be more difficult for experienced older runners than younger runners. This difficulty transitioning may increase an older runner’s risk for injury while running without shoes. Barefoot running has come into popularity in recent years due to studies suggesting that the trend could decrease how hard the foot strikes the ground and lessen injuries. Enthusiasts for the trend claim that barefoot runners automatically shift the way they run to land on the forefoot, which places less strain on joints.
Recent research, however, has shown that older runners who try barefoot running still maintain a heel landing and do not naturally move to a forefoot landing; increasing their risk for injuries.
Barefoot running is a new trend that is not for everyone. For more information about barefoot running contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
Barefoot running is a fairly popular trend in the running world. More than just simply ‘running without shoes,” barefoot running affects the way your feet hit the ground and your overall posture. Barefoot runners land on the front part of their feet as opposed to those who wear shoes, who usually strike their heel as they hit the ground.
Barefoot running contains many advantages, including:
- A lower risk for ankle and foot injuries
- Improvement in balance and body posture
- Strengthens muscles in the lower legs, ankles and feet that are not normally worked when wearing shoes
There are also some disadvantages to barefoot running, which include:
- Lack of shoes increases the risk of incurring blisters, scrapes, bruises and cuts
- Risk of Achilles tendonitis as a result of landing on the front of your feet constantly
- Needing time and transition to adjust as the switch cannot be automatic
Start on even, flat surfaces and consider investing in minimalist running shoes. Minimalist running shoes provide the ‘feel’ of barefoot running while affording the same protection you get from wearing shoes. Barefoot running can be safe and enjoyable with the proper planning and transition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Barefoot running.
Ground Zero Workers more Susceptible to Arthritis
According to a new study published in a the journal Arthritis and Rheumatology, recovery workers that aided in clearing Ground Zero in New York City are more susceptible to arthritis and other autoimmune disorders.
The most common form of arthritis found was rheumatoid arthritis, where workers experience period flare ups and stiff joints. Psoriatic arthritis is also common, specifically where ligaments more muscles attach to bone in the heel of the foot. Although the study found many suffering from arthritic pain, there is free health monitoring programs in place for those suffering from Ground Zero related problems.
Arthritis can be a different condition to live with. If you are suffering from arthritic foot pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our podiatrists can treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions about arthritic foot care, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about arthritic foot care.
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Woman Discovers Shockwave Therapy After Eight Years of Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Rosemary Smith was a full time carer from London when she started to feel shooting pains through her feet. She states she would even feel the pain while standing in her office making photo copies. Smith would often miss out on invitations to parties, exercising, and even found a new job where she could sit down more. After an extensive amount of research, Smith discovered that she had symptoms similar to plantar fasciitis that occurs often in middle aged and overweight individuals. After eight years of suffering from the pain of plantar fasciitis, the forty-five year old discovered shockwave therapy and the treatments have allowed her to live her life again. “My feet still ache if I’ve been shopping or standing for hours, but I don’t have to tiptoe out of bed and can dash off to get the post as soon as it drops through the door,” Smith mentioned.
Shockwave therapy is one of many forms of treatment for plantar fasciitis. If you are interested in receiving shockwave therapy for your lower extremities, contact one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will assess your needs and give you a professional opinion.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. This technique is used on patients that do not respond well to physiotherapy. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you have any questions, please contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Non-surgical Methods available to treat Hammertoe
Many patients often choose to undergo corrective surgery for hammertoe to quickly relieve the pain and swelling associated with the condition. Insurance companies will often require patients to first try non-surgical treatments, however, before agreeing to cover the cost of hammertoe surgery. Treatments for hammertoe that are non-surgical include a splint to hold the hammertoe in the correct position if it can still be straightened, the placement of non-medicated pads over the tops of the deformed join to protect the toe from rubbing against the shoe, and the creation of a custom-made orthotic insert to help decrease discomfort. General prevention of hammertoe exacerbation involves wearing properly fitted shoes that leave a gap of at least half an inch between the longest of your toes and the top of the shoe and avoiding wearing high heels.
To successfully correct a hammertoe and relieve the pain and inflammation associated it, medical assistance may be necessary. If you are seeking hammertoe treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is little-known a painful condition that affects the second, third and fourth toes involving different joints of the toe and foot. Hammertoe can be caused by many other conditions such as RA (rheumatoid arthritis), osteoarthritis, trauma or injuries to your foot, it can be hereditary and it can also be caused by a cerebral vascular accident. If you wear shoes that are too narrow or short for your feet, it may exacerbate any pain you already have.
It is really important to your overall well-being to seek out medical attention at the first signs of foot pain or anything that may hinder your ability to walk in a normal manner. Taking care of your feet is one of the first steps to being able to live a full and healthy life.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
Avoid Drug Side Effects by using Natural Remedies to treat Athlete’s Foot
To avoid the possible side effects that accompany prescription drugs, natural remedies are available for use to treat Athlete’s foot. Apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil can be rubbed directly onto areas affected by Athlete’s foot. To create a solution to soak your feet in, mix one part white vinegar and two parts warm water. Soak the feet in this for fifteen minutes. Similarly, garlic can be grinded into a fine paste, mixed into a tub of water, and used as a fifteen-minute soak for the feet. Another remedy can be found in neem leaves, which can be boiled in water for ten minutes. After the water has cooled, wash feet twice a day in the solution to treat Athlete’s foot.
Athlete’s foot can be treated successfully using any of the aforementioned methods. If you would like assistance with the treatment of Athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and answer any of your related questions.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be extremely contagious. It is commonly found in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere the feet often come into contact with.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal herbs or oils such as oregano or melaleuca oil
- Address sugar in the diet
- Examine feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts are present.
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, redness, and severe symptoms 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. It is best to see your podiatrist for the best treatment and relief from these symptoms.
For more information about Athlete’s Foot, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and holistic treatment protocols for all your individual foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Athlete’s Foot
Changing Socks Regularly Helps Prevent Athletes Foot
At any given period of time, around fifteen to twenty-five percent of people have Athlete’s foot or tinea pedis. Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection of the foot, can easily be prevented by regularly changing your socks. Many people choose to wear sandals to help avoid an Athlete’s foot infection. During the colder winter months, however, wearing sandals may be difficult.Another benefit of habitually changing your socks is the prevention of troublesome foot odor. Changing into a clean pair of socks at least once a day can help prevent unpleasant smells, according to the U.K.’s National Health Service. When compared to fabrics such as cotton, synthetic materials such as polyester are more likely to house odor- and fungus-causing bacteria and should therefore be avoided.
Foot conditions caused by fungal infections, such as Athlete’s foot, mostly form due to improper hygiene. For more information about how to prevent Athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists of Greene Podiatry Associates, Inc. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
If you suffer from itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet, this may be a sign of athlete's foot. Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be extremely contagious, and it often infects shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, and anywhere else feet may come in contact with. It is commonly found in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal product
- Examine feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts are present.
What is Tinea?
- Athlete’s foot is often caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm (tinea).
- Tinea can invade other parts of the body as well, if the proper thriving conditions for it are met.
- Tinea thrives in mostly dark, warm and moist environments.
- Although many people never experience athlete’s foot, around 70% of the population may suffer from tinea at some point.
For more information about Athlete’s Foot, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Athlete’s Foot