Topical treatments are the first line of defense against athlete's foot, a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. These treatments are designed to target the fungus directly, helping to clear the infection and relieve symptoms such as itching, burning, and scaling. Mild antifungal creams, sprays, or powders containing active ingredients like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine are commonly used. These medications work by disrupting the fungal cell membranes, effectively eliminating the infection. It is important to apply these treatments consistently for the duration recommended, even if symptoms begin to improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. In addition to medicated creams, keeping the feet clean and dry is critical. Using antifungal powders in shoes and socks can help prevent reinfection. For persistent or severe cases, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who may prescribe stronger topical or oral antifungal medications.

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.

Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are several types of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear of the joints over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints. Other types include gout, which occurs due to uric acid buildup, and psoriatic arthritis, associated with the skin condition psoriasis. Arthritis can significantly affect the feet, causing pain and limiting mobility. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion, often worsening with activity or after periods of inactivity. The feet can be particularly vulnerable, as they bear the body's weight, making walking and standing painful. If you have painful arthritis that is impacting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advice on alleviating symptoms and managing the condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

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 Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Stretching the arch of the foot can alleviate discomfort and improve flexibility. One simple method involves sitting in a chair and placing one foot over the opposite knee. Gently use your hand to pull your toes back toward your shin, feeling a stretch along the arch. Another effective stretch involves standing and placing one foot behind you on a low step, keeping the heel on the ground while leaning forward slightly. This helps to stretch the muscles and tendons along the bottom of the foot. Additionally, rolling a tennis ball under your foot while seated can help release tension in the arch. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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.