How Athlete's Foot Spreads

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet and commonly develops in warm, moist environments. The condition often begins between the toes, but may spread to the soles or sides of the feet. Symptoms include itching, burning, and peeling skin. An uncomfortable rash that may sting or become painful may also occur. In some cases, small blisters or dry flaky patches may appear. Athlete's foot can spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as locker room floors, public showers, and swimming pools. Shared footwear and towels, sweaty feet, and tight shoes also may create conditions that allow the fungus to thrive. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection by examining the skin and determining whether additional testing is needed. Treatment may include antifungal creams, oral medications for persistent infections, and guidance on keeping the feet clean and dry. Proper footwear and hygiene habits can help reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

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 Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Why Cycling Can Hurt Your Ankle

Ankle pain from cycling is a common overuse issue that develops when the joint and surrounding tendons are placed under repeated strain. It often appears as aching, stiffness, or sharp discomfort during or after a ride. One major cause is incorrect cleat placement, which can force the foot into an unnatural angle and stress the ankle with every pedal stroke. A saddle that is too high can also lead to overextension, placing extra pressure on the joint. Risk factors include long rides, sudden increases in training, and poor bike fit. Over time, the pain may worsen and affect performance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, assess bike related strain, and recommend custom orthotics or adjustments to improve alignment. If you enjoy cycling and have developed ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward an effective relief and treatment plan.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

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Facts About Peripheral Neuropathy in the Feet

Peripheral neuropathy develops when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged. In the feet, this problem can cause numbness, burning pain, tingling, or weakness. Some people feel like they are wearing socks when barefoot. Others lose feeling in the toes or soles of the feet. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, certain medications, and cancer treatments. Poor nerve function can affect balance and make walking more difficult. It can also increase the risk of cuts, sores, and infections because people may not feel injuries right away. A podiatrist can examine the feet, test nerve function, and look for skin or circulation problems linked to neuropathy. Treatment includes custom orthotics, wearing protective footwear, and care for wounds or pressure areas. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

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Understanding Ankle Injuries in Runners

Ankle injuries can vary in severity and type, including ankle sprains, stress fractures around the ankle, and avulsion fractures. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, often causing swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that develop from repetitive impact, leading to deep aching pain that worsens with activity. Additionally, avulsion fractures happen when a small piece of bone is pulled away by a ligament or tendon during a sudden forceful movement, causing sharp pain and swelling. A podiatrist can use imaging tests to determine the exact injury, provide stabilization, and guide recovery to prevent long-term problems. If you enjoy running and have developed ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and offer effective relief and treatment solutions, getting you back to this popular activity.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

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