Items filtered by date: March 2024

Ankle pain, a prevalent complaint among individuals of all ages and activity levels, manifests through various symptoms that can impede mobility and diminish quality of life. Among the most common indicators of ankle discomfort are localized tenderness, swelling, and stiffness around the affected joint. Individuals may experience difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle, leading to instability and a sensation of weakness. Pain during movement, particularly when walking, running, or climbing stairs, is another prevalent symptom that often prompts individuals to seek medical attention. In some cases, ankle pain may radiate to adjacent areas such as the foot or lower leg, increasing discomfort and limiting functionality. Additionally, bruising and redness may accompany ankle pain, indicating potential injury or inflammation. Recognizing these symptoms early and addressing them promptly through appropriate interventions, such as rest, compression, and elevation can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer you treatment and relief options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Toenail fungus is an infection that commonly affects the toenails. It occurs when fungi invade the nail bed, leading to discoloration, thickening, and deformity of the nails. One of the most noticeable symptoms of toenail fungus is the gradual change in the appearance of the affected nails, which may turn yellow, white, or brown, and become brittle or crumbly. As the infection progresses, the nails may thicken and develop a distorted shape, causing discomfort and difficulty when wearing shoes. Several risk factors contribute to the development of toenail fungus, including poor foot hygiene, prolonged exposure to moist environments, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and having a weakened immune system. If you believe you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment methods, which may include prescribed medicine or laser treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Experiencing heel pain can significantly impact your daily life, making even simple tasks like walking or standing uncomfortable. Podiatrists, medical professionals specializing in foot and ankle health, can diagnose and treat heel pain. These types of doctors understand the complex structure of the foot and can identify the underlying causes of heel pain. Included are overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, or Achilles tendonitis. Targeting the underlying cause of heel pain is important for appropriate care. It is especially important to seek the advice of a podiatrist if you have persistent pain, and if the pain comes suddenly or after an injury. A podiatrist can offer a personalized treatment plan that may include specialized exercises, custom orthotics, medication, or advanced therapies designed to alleviate pain and promote healing. Podiatrists can also provide valuable guidance on footwear choices and lifestyle modifications to prevent future pain. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested you seek the help of a podiatrist for diagnosis and care. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist 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 West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When it comes to new shoes, avoiding foot blisters is essential for comfort and enjoyment. Start by selecting shoes made of breathable materials that conform to the shape of your foot. Before wearing them for extended periods, gradually break in your shoes by wearing them for short intervals around the house. Consider using protective products like blister patches on areas prone to rubbing, such as the heels or toes. Ensure a proper fit by leaving enough space for your toes to wiggle and avoiding shoes that are too tight or too loose. Opt for socks made of moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry and reduce friction. Additionally, consider applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to areas prone to blistering before putting on your shoes. By following these tips and being mindful of potential hot spots, you can prevent foot blisters and enjoy your new shoes comfortably from the start. If you have developed problematic blisters from wearing new shoes, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist 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 West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.