Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can cause itching, discoloration, and cracks in the skin. These changes often appear between the toes but can develop on other parts of the foot as well. The infection may cause skin to look dry or scaly, making it easy to confuse with other skin problems. Foot psoriasis can create similar symptoms, including scaling and discoloration. Because the two problems may look alike, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. Using the wrong treatment can allow symptoms to continue or become worse.

One important difference is that athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus, while psoriasis is related to the immune system. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another, unlike psoriasis. The location and appearance of symptoms may provide clues, but these features do not always make the cause clear. Athlete’s foot often produces cracking or peeling between the toes. Psoriasis may affect other parts of the body in addition to the feet. When skin changes continue, or the diagnosis is uncertain, professional evaluation can help determine what is actually causing the problem.

A podiatrist can examine persistent skin changes on the feet and determine whether athlete’s foot or another condition may be responsible. Since fungal infections and psoriasis require different approaches, identifying the correct cause can guide appropriate care. A podiatrist may evaluate the location and appearance of affected skin while considering other symptoms. Further testing may be appropriate when the diagnosis is unclear. Professional care is especially valuable when itching, cracking, or discoloration continues despite previous treatment or begins interfering with comfort. Receiving the correct diagnosis can prevent unnecessary treatment and help address the underlying cause of the skin changes. If you have ongoing symptoms that may indicate athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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

Ankle osteoarthritis develops when protective cartilage inside the ankle joint gradually wears down. This cartilage helps bones move smoothly during activities. As cartilage becomes thinner, bones may rub together and cause pain. Common symptoms include ankle pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Some people experience greater discomfort after standing or walking for long periods. Morning stiffness may occur and often improves with movement. As arthritis progresses, pain can become more frequent and interfere with daily activities. Changes in walking may also develop as the joint becomes uncomfortable.

Several factors can increase the risk of ankle osteoarthritis. A previous ankle fracture or severe sprain can damage cartilage and contribute to joint changes. Repeated injuries may place extra stress on the ankle. Age is another risk factor because cartilage naturally becomes less resilient. Excess body weight can increase pressure on the joint. Foot or ankle alignment problems may also affect joint stress. Causes include previous trauma, repeated stress, and natural wear. Some people develop arthritis without one clear cause.

A podiatrist begins treatment by reviewing symptoms, medical history, and activity levels. A foot and ankle examination can identify swelling, tenderness, and limited motion. X-rays may evaluate joint-space narrowing and bone changes. Treatment depends on symptom severity and joint condition. A podiatrist may recommend supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or bracing to reduce ankle stress. Medication may help manage pain and inflammation when appropriate. Corticosteroid injections may also be considered. If conservative care does not provide relief, surgical options may be discussed based on joint damage.

Ankle osteoarthritis can affect walking, work, and daily activities. Recognizing symptoms early can help you take action. Persistent ankle pain or stiffness deserves attention, especially after an injury. A podiatrist can determine whether arthritis is causing your symptoms and develop a treatment plan focused on comfort and mobility. If arthritis affects your ankles or feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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 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 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.

Parents may wonder when babies should start wearing shoes. Before a child begins to walk, shoes are not necessary indoors. In fact, bare feet allow babies to feel the floor and practice foot movements. Most children begin walking sometime between nine and 18 months, although this varies. Once a baby starts taking independent steps, soft-sole baby shoes can provide protection while allowing movement. Shoes should fit without squeezing growing toes.

Soft-sole baby shoes are a choice for early walkers because they allow the feet to bend naturally. Look for flexible materials, a toe area, and a good fit. Supportive does not mean stiff. Early footwear should protect the feet while allowing movement. Wearing shoes that are too tight can create pressure and discomfort. Poorly fitting footwear may also cause blisters, rubbing, or changes in walking patterns. Parents should check shoe fit because feet grow quickly.

Healthy baby foot development depends on choosing the right shoes. Babies benefit from opportunities to crawl, stand, and walk. Walking barefoot indoors can help develop balance and foot awareness when the environment is safe. Risk factors for foot problems include wearing restrictive footwear, poorly fitted shoes, and prolonged use of rigid shoes. Watch for persistent pain, swelling, redness, or differences between the feet. These symptoms deserve professional attention.

A podiatrist can examine a child’s feet and ankles when concerns arise. The evaluation may include checking foot structure, movement, and walking development. If a problem is found, the podiatrist may recommend footwear changes, monitoring, or other age-appropriate treatment. Parents should avoid choosing rigid corrective shoes without professional guidance. With proper fit and healthy movement, early shoes can protect developing feet without limiting natural motion. If your baby needs shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you on the correct shoes to purchase for your child's needs.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Pregnancy can bring noticeable changes to the feet as the body adjusts to added weight and shifting balance. Swelling is one concern, especially later in pregnancy. Extra fluid can collect in the feet because of the baby's weight and position. Foot size can also change. A hormone called relaxin makes ligaments more flexible to prepare the body for delivery. This flexibility can allow the feet to become wider and longer, sometimes resulting in a permanent increase of up to half a shoe size.

Arch pain is another foot problem that can develop during pregnancy. Added weight can increase strain on the arches, while changes in foot structure can cause the arches to flatten. This flattening places extra stress on the plantar fascia, the strong band of tissue that supports the arch. Ingrown toenails can also develop when shoes become too tight as the feet swell or change size. Pressure from wearing tight shoes can push the nail into the surrounding skin, leading to tenderness and inflammation. These changes can make standing and walking less comfortable.

A podiatrist can evaluate pregnancy-related foot pain and determine what is causing the discomfort. Treatment can focus on relieving pressure, supporting the arches, and protecting painful areas of the feet. A podiatrist can recommend wearing properly fitted shoes and custom foot orthotics to improve support. An orthotic is a shoe insert designed to support the foot and improve its position. Podiatrists can also treat ingrown toenails safely and assess persistent swelling or pain. Professional foot care can help patients remain comfortable and active as their bodies change throughout pregnancy. If you have symptoms of pregnancy-related foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.