Items filtered by date: November 2023

Plantar warts, also known as verrucae plantaris, are warts that appear on the bottom of the feet, often in areas that bear weight like the heels, toes, and the middle of the foot. These warts can be particularly painful and difficult to treat because walking puts pressure on them, causing them to grow inward. Sometimes, many warts can grow together, forming what is known as mosaic warts. It can be hard to tell plantar warts apart from corns or calluses. Corns are hard skin that forms over joints from pressure and rubbing. They have a hard core and do not have the small black dots that warts do. Soft corns form in moist areas between toes due to pressure and rubbing. Another condition often mistaken for plantar warts is black heel, which can be seen in athletes like tennis or basketball players. This is where tiny blood vessels break, causing small black or brown spots on the heel or side of the foot. Carefully removing the top layer of skin can help separate this condition from warts, calluses, corns, and serious issues such as malignant melanoma. If you have what appears to be a wart on your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor 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 McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin's surface, commonly caused by friction, heat, and moisture. These blisters can be painful and uncomfortable, affecting individuals of all ages. Friction is a primary culprit in blister formation. When the skin repeatedly rubs against footwear or other surfaces, it can lead to irritation, causing a blister to develop as a protective mechanism. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those that are too tight or loose, can exacerbate this problem. Heat and moisture also contribute to blister development. When your feet sweat excessively, it creates a moist environment inside your shoes, increasing the risk of friction. In hot weather, sweat can make the skin more vulnerable to blistering. Another potential cause of blisters is burns, whether from hot surfaces, chemicals, or sunburn, as they can damage the skin and result in blister formation. Understanding the causes of foot blisters is essential for prevention. If you do develop a blister, it is important to protect and care for it to avoid infection and promote healing, and a podiatrist can help you accomplish this. It is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can guide you toward healing and prevention techniques.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM of Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Diabetes is a condition that affects multiple aspects of your health, including your feet. Individuals living with diabetes need to be vigilant about potential foot-related symptoms, as they are at higher risk of developing complications. One common symptom is peripheral neuropathy, which can manifest as tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet. This occurs when high blood sugar damages the nerves, impairing sensation. Reduced blood flow to the feet is another issue, leading to cold or discolored skin and slower wound healing. Diabetes can also cause changes in the foot's shape, such as Charcot foot, where the arch collapses. This may lead to deformities and instability. Additionally, diabetic individuals are more prone to foot ulcers and infections. It is important to pay close attention to these symptoms, as early detection and proper management are key to preventing severe complications. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common and bothersome condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when fungal organisms, usually dermatophytes, invade the toenail, causing infection. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making your feet, particularly your toenails, an ideal breeding ground. The initial signs of toenail fungus often include discoloration, typically yellow or brown, and a change in the texture of the nail. Over time, the affected nail may become thickened and brittle, with crumbling or distorted edges. It may also emit an unpleasant odor. Toenail fungus can be both unsightly and uncomfortable, and in some cases, it can even lead to pain. If left untreated, it can spread to other toenails and become a chronic issue. Seeking prompt medical attention is vital in addressing toenail fungus effectively which may help to prevent further complications. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer the appropriate treatment option for you.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM of Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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