Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often between the toes. There are three main types of athlete's foot infections. Interdigital occurs between the toes, moccasin forms on the soles and sides of the feet, and vesicular includes blister-like lesions. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or communal shower areas. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and cracking of the skin. In some cases, blisters may form, and the skin can become thick and flaky. The infection is contagious and can spread to other areas of the body or to other people. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot through a physical exam and may take a skin sample to confirm the presence of fungus. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams, powders, or oral medication, along with advice on proper foot hygiene and footwear. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention strategies.

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 Roy Rothman, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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 DeBary, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendon pain can result from conditions like tendonitis, tendinosis, or a partial or complete tendon rupture. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and is vital for walking, running, and jumping. Tendonitis is an acute inflammation, often triggered by sudden activity or repetitive strain, and may cause swelling, warmth, and pain. Tendinosis is a chronic condition caused by long-term overuse, which leads to gradual tendon degeneration. Symptoms include stiffness, aching, and pain that worsens with activity but eases with rest. The tendon may feel thickened, tender, or produce a creaking sensation. A rupture can occur suddenly, often during sports, and may feel like a sharp pain or a kick to the back of the leg. It often causes difficulty walking and may result in a visible gap in the tendon. Diagnosis typically involves ultrasound or MRI imaging. Treatment includes rest, orthotics, targeted exercises, or surgery, in severe cases. If you are experiencing heel or ankle pain, especially during or after physical activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Roy Rothman, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often affecting the feet. It is commonly caused by diabetes, but can also result from alcohol abuse, certain medication,  infections, or vitamin deficiencies. Symptoms typically include a strong burning sensation, tingling, numbness, or sharp, shooting pain in the feet. You may also experience weakness, sensitivity to touch, or a pins and needles feeling. In some cases, the skin may appear red or feel unusually warm or cold. These symptoms can worsen over time, making walking and maintaining balance difficult. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing and managing peripheral neuropathy. They may perform a neurological exam, nerve conduction studies, or blood tests to determine the cause. Treatment options include medication, topical creams, custom orthotics, and guidance on foot care to prevent complications like ulcers or infections. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of  a podiatrist who can help you with relief and management tips.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Roy Rothman, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Choosing the right long distance running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. One important factor is the weight of the shoe, as lighter options can reduce fatigue over long distances. The type of terrain also plays a role, with trail shoes offering better grip and protection, while road shoes provide smoother soles for pavement running. Cushioning is vital for absorbing impact and reducing stress on joints, especially during extended runs. Heel drop, or the height difference between the heel and toe, affects stride and should match your running style and body mechanics. Support features, such as arch support and heel stability, help maintain proper alignment and prevent overuse injuries. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong type of shoes while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and educate you further on proper running shoes.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Roy Rothman, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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