Plantar warts are common in children and are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which thrives in warm, moist environments like public swimming pool areas, locker rooms, and public shower areas. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions on the soles of the feet. Symptoms include small, rough growths on the bottom of the feet, usually on weight-bearing areas like the heels or balls of the feet. These warts may cause pain or tenderness when walking or standing, often feeling like a pebble stuck in the shoe. A podiatrist can help diagnose and treat plantar warts with various methods, including topical treatments and cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, for more stubborn cases. It is important to treat warts early to prevent them from spreading. To prevent plantar warts, children should wear protective footwear in public areas and avoid sharing shoes or socks. Keeping feet clean and dry also helps reduce the risk. If your child is dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Poor circulation in the feet may signal an underlying medical condition that limits blood flow to the lower extremities. This issue is often seen in people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or peripheral artery disease. Symptoms of poor circulation may include cold feet, numbness, slow-healing wounds, skin discoloration, or a diminished pulse in the feet or ankles. In severe cases, poor circulation may cause muscle cramps, skin ulcers, or tissue damage due to reduced oxygen delivery. A podiatrist can perform a thorough vascular assessment and may recommend diagnostic imaging to evaluate blood flow in the feet and ankles. Medical treatment may involve prescription medication to reduce clotting, or lower cholesterol and blood pressure. In cases where arteries are blocked, surgery may be considered to restore blood flow. Addressing the root cause early can prevent serious complications like infection or gangrene. A podiatrist can also monitor your foot health over time to reduce the risk of long-term damage. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Hammertoe is a foot deformity in which one or more of the smaller toes bend downward at the middle joint. This is often due to muscle imbalance or prolonged pressure from wearing ill-fitting footwear. Patients may first notice a curling toe that becomes difficult to straighten. As the hammertoe progresses, it may cause pain in the affected toe or in the ball of the foot. Also, corns or calluses may form from friction against shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe through a physical exam and may use imaging if joint damage or arthritis is suspected. In its early stages, the toe may still be flexible, and treatment can include wearing supportive footwear or splinting to help correct alignment. However, if the toe becomes rigid and fixed in place, surgery may be required to restore function by realigning the bones or releasing tight tendons. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Foot and ankle injuries are common and can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Neuromas involve thickened nerve tissue, often between the toes, leading to burning pain and tingling sensations. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone caused by repetitive impact, often seen in athletes or individuals with increased physical activity. Plantar fasciitis is a condition where the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, resulting in sharp heel pain, especially in the morning. Heel spurs are bony growths that may develop in response to long-term plantar fasciitis. Additionally, bunions are painful bumps that form at the base of the big toe due to joint misalignment. Foot pain can develop for various reasons, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have foot pain of any type, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer an appropriate treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes itching, redness, and peeling, usually between the toes or on the soles. Most cases respond well to mild antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. However, if symptoms continue for weeks or return often, the infection may be more serious or resistant to treatment. In some cases, what looks like athlete’s foot may be another condition, such as eczema or psoriasis, and needs a different approach. Poor foot hygiene, wearing tight shoes, and damp environments can also make healing harder. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through a simple test and may prescribe stronger medications or check for other skin problems. Early attention can prevent the infection from spreading or becoming chronic. If you have athlete’s foot that does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors 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 Clovis, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.