Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet and thrives in warm moist environments. One type of athlete's foot is interdigital athlete’s foot, which develops between the toes causing redness, itching, peeling skin and burning discomfort. Moccasin-type athlete’s foot involves the soles and sides of the feet leading to dry thickened cracked skin that can spread slowly. Vesicular athlete’s foot has fluid-filled blisters often accompanied by intense itching and inflammation. Additionally, ulcerative athlete’s foot is the most severe form and may cause open sores, swelling, pain and secondary bacterial infection. A podiatrist can properly diagnose the specific type and provide targeted treatment. Included are prescription antifungal medication, skin care guidance, and preventive strategies. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and provide treatment.

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 Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C..  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 Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Idiopathic congenital clubfoot is a structural deformity present at birth in which a baby’s foot is twisted inward and downward due to abnormal development of bones, tendons, and muscles. The exact cause is not fully understood, although genetics and fetal positioning may play a role. The Ponseti method is the most effective treatment and involves gentle manipulation and casting to gradually correct the foot position, followed by bracing to maintain alignment. A podiatrist experienced in pediatric care can guide families through each stage of correction, monitor progress, and provide long-term support to ensure proper foot function. If your child has been diagnosed with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for expert evaluation and early corrective care.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone that form when repeated pressure outweighs the body’s ability to recover. These injuries often appear in people who increase activity too quickly, spend long hours on hard surfaces, or wear footwear that does not provide enough support. Early signs include a pinpoint ache that becomes sharper during walking or running, and eases with rest. Swelling or mild bruising may develop, and the discomfort usually returns the moment activity resumes. Although the fracture is small, leaving it untreated can lead to a complete break or long-lasting pain. Reducing impact, resting the foot, and adjusting footwear are important first steps toward healing. If you notice persistent pain in one spot on the foot or discomfort that worsens with activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Spending most of the day standing can place steady pressure on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Over time, this constant load may lead to aching arches, heel discomfort, swelling, or tight calf muscles. Some individuals also develop calluses, changes in posture, or fatigue that spreads into the knees or lower back. Hard floors, wearing unsupportive shoes, and limited opportunities to rest add to the strain and make recovery slower. Small changes such as choosing footwear with cushioning, taking brief seated breaks, and stretching during the day can help reduce stress on the feet. Paying attention to early signs of discomfort allows you to address concerns before they interfere with work or daily routines. If soreness becomes persistent or affects your movement, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care.

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 Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.