Items filtered by date: October 2024

Blisters are common nuisances that can hinder an active lifestyle, but several effective prevention methods can help keep them at bay. One of the most important strategies is wearing properly fitted shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. It is important to choose footwear that accommodates the shape of your feet, reducing friction and pressure points. Using moisture-wicking socks can also minimize the risk of blisters, as they help keep feet dry and reduce friction. Applying blister prevention products, such as protective adhesive bandages or lubricants, can create a barrier between the skin and footwear. Additionally, gradually breaking in new shoes allows your feet to adapt, reducing the likelihood of irritation. Foot blisters can be uncomfortable, causing difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed a foot blister that has become infected, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide adequate relief, and educate you on additional prevention methods.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact James P. Huish, DPM of Arizona. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Foot and ankle swelling is a common issue that can result from various factors, often indicating underlying health concerns. One significant reason for is being overweight, as excess body weight places additional pressure on the feet and ankles, leading to fluid retention. Older adults are also more susceptible to swelling due to natural aging processes that affect circulation and fluid balance. Blood clots can pose serious risks, causing localized swelling and requiring immediate medical attention. Additionally, chronic vein conditions, such as venous insufficiency, prevent blood from flowing properly back to the heart, resulting in swelling and discomfort. If you are suffering from swollen feet and ankles, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact James P. Huish, DPM of Arizona. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are smooth bony growths that commonly develop in the feet of seniors. They typically affect areas like the heel, ankle, and big toe. Bone spurs form over time as the result of natural wear and tear in the joints, causing the protective cartilage to thin. The body then tries to compensate by producing extra bone. While some bone spurs do not cause discomfort, others can press on nearby nerves or tissues, which may lead to pain, swelling, or reduced joint mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose bone spurs using imaging tests and evaluate if they are contributing to any foot pain. Treatment typically involves managing symptoms through footwear modifications, custom orthotics, and exercises. In severe cases, surgical removal may be recommended. If you have foot pain that indicates a bone spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact James P. Huish, DPM from Arizona. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

As seniors age, the risk of falling increases significantly, making home safety a vital concern. To reduce the likelihood of falls, it is essential to create a safe living environment. Begin by removing clutter from walkways and ensuring that rugs are secured or removed entirely to prevent tripping hazards. Good lighting is essential, and installing brighter bulbs and night lights in hallways and staircases can enhance visibility. Additionally, consider using non-slip mats in bathrooms and grab bars near toilets and in showers for added stability. Regular exercise can also improve balance and strength, further reducing the risk of falls. Wearing supportive shoes instead of slippers can provide better footing. Falling can seriously impact the feet, and may cause seniors to develop foot conditions. If this applies to you or someone you care of, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat foot pain, and guide you toward effective fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with James P. Huish, DPM from Arizona. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

A black toenail can be alarming, often caused by several underlying issues. Trauma is a common cause, typically from stubbing your toe or repeated pressure, such as from wearing ill-fitting shoes. This blunt force can cause blood to pool beneath the nail, creating a dark discoloration. Fungal or bacterial infections may also result in a blackened nail if they affect the nail bed. More seriously, melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can present as a dark streak or discoloration under the nail. It is important to monitor any changes in your toenail’s color or texture and seek medical advice if the condition persists or worsens. A podiatrist can help diagnose the cause accurately and provide appropriate treatment, ensuring that any serious issues are addressed promptly. If you have a black toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 James P. Huish, DPM of Arizona. Our doctors 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 Safford, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.