Items filtered by date: March 2023

Blisters are a natural defense mechanism the body develops against damaged skin. They are defined as a small area that is filled with liquid over the raw skin, and will gradually drain when new skin has formed. One of the most common causes of blisters is excessive friction, and this can happen from shoes and socks that are worn. Additional reasons why blisters can develop can include an allergic reaction from poison oak, ivy, or sumac, or from medical conditions, such as eczema or autoimmune diseases. It is beneficial to cover foot blisters with a protective pad, and this may be helpful in preventing the blister from draining prematurely. Wearing shoes that fit correctly is often an answer to limit blisters developing on the feet. If you would like more information about the cause and management of foot blisters, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Itchy feet can come from a variety of causes. It can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive to one’s life, especially if it is chronic. Itchiness, or pruritis, can be cutaneous, systemic, neuropathic, psychogenic, or a combination of these factors. Cutaneous itchiness means the itch results from a problem on the surface of the skin. Systemic itchiness comes from something going on throughout the body. Neuropathic itching is related to the nerves or nervous system. And psychogenic itchiness arises from a psychological issue. One possible reason for itchy feet is diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes involves insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels, which can have serious health consequences. Neuropathy, often associated with diabetes, can cause tingling, itchiness, and numbness in the feet. Poor circulation from diabetes can also cause itchiness. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your medical team for regular foot examinations and diagnosis of anything abnormal going on with your feet.

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 one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has shown that more than half of the population stands while working. Potential health risks may be increased when standing is done for long periods of time. The feet are the foundation of the body, and it is important that they are protected while working. This can consist of wearing shoes that fit correctly and choosing shoes that have a low heel. These types of shoes can be helpful in protecting the hamstrings and back, and may prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Taking frequent breaks will allow movement, which may help to maintain proper circulation. Additionally, shuffling the feet while standing can accomplish the same thing by redistributing body weight. Many sources believe the body’s flexibility and ability to function can improve when strength training exercises are performed. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy for your work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The popular shoes that are known as flip flops date back to 1500 B.C. They have the same Y-shaped construction, and today they are available in a variety of colors and styles. Despite the ease of wearing these types of shoes, they can be the source of foot pain. Most flip flops lack good arch support and may cause the feet to flatten as walking is done. Plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, may gradually develop as a result of this. The plantar fasciia is the band of tissue that connects the heels to the toes, and the condition is often painful. The entire foot may become fatigued from the toes gripping the front of the shoe to keep it on the foot. The stride may change as the heels touch the ground with more force while wearing flip flops, possibly causing the natural walking style to change. If you are interested in wearing these types of shoes, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can educate you on the pros and cons of wearing flip flops.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.