Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It frequently begins between the toes, where moisture can collect and create an environment that allows fungus to grow. The infection causes itching, burning, and stinging. Skin also becomes cracked or scaly. Some patients develop dry skin on the bottoms or sides of their feet. Athlete's foot spreads through contact with contaminated floors, towels, or other surfaces. The fungus grows well in warm and damp places. Locker rooms and public showers provide conditions where the fungus can spread. Wearing shoes that keep the feet warm and sweaty also create an environment that encourages fungal growth. The infection can spread to other parts of the foot and return after symptoms appear to improve.

A podiatrist examines the skin and determines whether the symptoms are caused by athlete's foot or another foot problem. An evaluation includes looking at the location, appearance, and severity of the affected skin. In some cases, the podiatrist collects a small skin sample to help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment includes prescription-strength antifungal medication when appropriate. These medications target the fungus responsible for the infection. A podiatrist determines which form of medication is best based on the location and severity of the symptoms. The podiatrist also monitors the skin to make sure the infection is responding to treatment. Persistent infections require a different treatment approach.

Athlete's foot can become uncomfortable enough to affect walking and daily activities. Cracked skin also becomes sore and irritated, especially when the affected areas rub against shoes. A podiatrist evaluates persistent symptoms and identifies factors that could contribute to repeated infections. Podiatric care focuses on controlling the fungus, protecting damaged skin, and reducing discomfort. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check whether the infection has cleared and determine whether additional treatment is appropriate. Prompt treatment also helps limit the spread of the infection to other areas of the foot. If you have developed athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from North Florida Foot & Ankle Center.  our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can 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. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Bunions are a foot problem that can change the shape of the big toe joint. A bunion forms when the big toe moves toward the other toes while the joint at its base becomes more prominent. This can create a bump along the inside of the foot. Bunions may develop slowly, and symptoms can seem minor. Over time, the area may become painful, swollen, or irritated by shoes.

Several factors can contribute to bunion development. Genetics can play an important role because inherited foot structure may make someone more likely to develop a bunion. Wearing high heels can increase pressure on the front of the foot and push the toes into a narrow space. Arthritis can contribute to changes that encourage bunion formation. Causes include abnormal foot mechanics and repeated stress. Bunions are not caused by one factor alone.

Common symptoms include pain around the big toe, redness, and tenderness. People may develop thickened skin or a callus where the foot rubs against footwear. The big toe may lean toward the second toe, making shoes difficult to wear. Risk factors include arthritis and footwear that squeezes the toes. Activities that place repeated pressure on the forefoot may also make symptoms noticeable.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate alignment, and determine whether arthritis or another condition is contributing to symptoms. Treatment may begin with wider shoes, protective padding, or other ways to reduce pressure. Custom orthotics may help improve foot mechanics when appropriate. If pain continues, a podiatrist may discuss treatment options and determine whether surgery is needed to correct alignment. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of North Florida Foot & Ankle Center. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Flat feet occur when the arch along the inside of the foot is lower than usual or rests flat against the ground. Some people have flat feet without pain or difficulty, while others develop symptoms that affect normal daily movement. Pain or tiredness can occur in the feet, ankles, or legs, especially after physical activity. Stiffness and swelling can also develop in the feet or ankles. Another sign is uneven shoe wear, especially near the inside of the heel. Flat feet can affect one foot or both feet and can sometimes change the way a person walks.

Several factors can contribute to flat feet. In children, low arches are often part of normal development, and many children develop arches as they grow. Flat feet can also run in families. Tight muscles or tendons can affect the arch, and excess body weight can place added stress on the feet. Some patients develop flat feet later in life as the arch flattens. When flat feet cause pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking, an evaluation can help determine how the condition is affecting foot function.

A podiatrist can examine the feet while a patient is standing and walking to evaluate arch shape and movement. The assessment can also consider pain and problems with running or sports. When treatment is appropriate, a podiatrist can recommend orthotics, which are special shoe inserts designed to support the feet and manage related pain. A podiatrist can also recommend shoes that provide proper support and fit the natural shape of the foot. Treatment depends on symptoms and how flat feet affect movement. If you have symptoms of flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from North Florida Foot & Ankle Center. our doctors 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 Ponte Vedra, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot, also called a foot fracture, occurs when one or more bones in the foot crack or break. It can happen after a fall, direct impact, or repeated stress. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the foot. Some people hear a snap or grinding noise when the injury happens. Walking may become difficult or impossible, especially when pressure is placed on the injured area.

Several factors can increase the risk of a broken foot. Sports activities, falls, and weakened bones can make fractures more likely. Wearing improper footwear may also increase injury risk during certain activities. Stress fractures can develop gradually from repeated impact, particularly after sudden changes in exercise. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, review how it happened, and foot movement. X-rays or other imaging tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. A podiatrist may recommend immobilization with a cast or walking boot to protect the injured bones. Some fractures may require crutches or limited weight-bearing while healing. More serious breaks may need surgical treatment to realign and stabilize the bones. Follow-up appointments help monitor healing and ensure that the foot remains properly aligned. Avoid returning to strenuous activity until the foot has recovered.

Many broken feet heal in about four to six weeks, although recovery can take longer depending on the severity of the fracture and overall health. Following weight-bearing instructions is important for proper healing. Keep the foot protected and report increasing pain, swelling, or color changes promptly. Gradually returning to normal activity can help prevent reinjury and help restore safe, comfortable movement. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from North Florida Foot & Ankle Center. our doctors 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 Ponte Vedra, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.