Tuesday, 05 September 2023 00:00

Treatment for Plantar Warts

A plantar wart, which is a growth on the sole of your foot, is caused by exposure to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Although this type of infection is more common among children and young adults, it can affect anyone. You might wonder how you end up with this unwelcome visitor. It's simple, the infection is caused by direct contact with the virus through a break in your skin. Sometimes, it can take months after exposure for a plantar wart to appear. The wart often starts as a small, rough patch on your foot's sole but can expand over time. These growths disrupt the usual skin lines on your feet and might display tiny black dots due to clogged blood vessels. Treatment options vary based on how the warts bother you. Salicylic acid treatments may or may not be effective. More advanced treatment includes the application of liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin, though this process can cause discomfort and may take several applications. If you think you may have a plantar wart, especially if it becomes painful or shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This qualified foot doctor can evaluate the problem and suggest a proper course of treatment. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. 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 one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?
Tuesday, 29 August 2023 00:00

Exploring the Bones and Joints of the Foot

The structure of the foot comprises a fascinating network of bones and joints that enable us to walk, run, and stand. The foot has three major sections: the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. The forefoot contains metatarsal bones forming the ball of the foot, while the midfoot houses various tarsal bones. The tarsal bones are responsible for maintaining arches and facilitating flexibility. The hindfoot houses the heel bone, or calcaneus, and is crucial for absorbing shock during movement. Other joints in the foot, like the ankle joint and the subtalar joint, allow for complex motions that include dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Understanding this skeletal framework is essential for appreciating the importance of proper foot care and maintaining overall mobility and comfort. If you would like more information about the biomechanics of the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry
Tuesday, 22 August 2023 00:00

Dealing With an Ankle Sprain

Ankle sprains are a common injury, often the result of sudden twists, rolls, or impacts that stretch or tear the ligaments connecting the bones of the ankle joint. These ligaments are vital for stability and movement, making ankle sprains a significant concern. Ankle sprains typically occur during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, uneven surfaces, or accidental missteps. Sports like basketball, soccer, and trail running, as well as everyday occurrences like tripping or stumbling, can lead to these injuries. The most common type of ankle sprain is when the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. Common signs of a sprain include pain, swelling, and bruising around the affected area. Walking or bearing weight on the injured ankle can be painful, and there might be a sensation of instability or weakness. In severe cases, there could be a popping sound at the time of injury, indicating a possible ligament tear. Prompt treatment is required to prevent further complications and ensure recovery. If you suspect an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to determine the extent of the injury and receive the appropriate care. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 15 August 2023 00:00

Changes to the Feet During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a much-anticipated journey for many women, often filled with numerous physical changes, and the feet are no exception. During this transformative time, many women experience various alterations in their feet, which can be from hormonal shifts and increased weight. One common change is the flattening of the arches, caused by the hormone relaxin. This is effective in loosening the ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. As a result, some women may experience pain and discomfort in the feet and ankles. Swelling, also known as edema, is another prevalent issue, as the body retains more fluids during pregnancy. This can lead to a feeling of heaviness and tightness in the feet. To alleviate these symptoms, pregnant women are advised to wear comfortable and supportive footwear, elevate their feet when possible, and perform foot stretches and exercises. It's essential to prioritize foot health during pregnancy to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey to motherhood. It is suggested for women who are pregnant include a podiatrist in their healthcare team who can treat any foot conditions that may arise.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Friday, 11 August 2023 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Much attention is placed on finding the proper running shoes for your feet and the type of running you will be doing. However, finding the right socks can be equally important to avoid discomfort and injury while running. The right running socks can help to prevent blisters, pad the feet, offer support, and wick away moisture. Running socks have certain attributes that normal socks don’t have. First, they are seamless, which can help to eliminate the rubbing and friction that encourages the formation of blisters. Second, while wearing running socks may not be the same as having insoles, many will contain a compression band that adds support and improves the fit. Third, many running socks also include cushioning for the ball of the foot and the heel. Finally, double-layer socks absorb the friction between the layers rather than on the skin. For more help with this and other ways to prevent running injuries, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
Tuesday, 01 August 2023 00:00

How Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Because the feet have numerous joints, they are often a target for this disease. Tenderness, swelling, and stiffness in the joints are the major symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis or RA. Loss of range of motion and joint deformity are other symptoms. Foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, can be caused by the erosion of the joints from RA. Because there is such a high risk of damage to the feet because of rheumatoid arthritis, it is wise to get a diagnosis sooner than later. Treatment can include medication, low-impact exercises, customized orthotics, and footwear recommendations. A podiatrist can fit the patient with orthotics built to fit the foot precisely and provide the necessary support and cushioning. For more information on how to deal with rheumatoid arthritis that is affecting the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet
Tuesday, 25 July 2023 00:00

Happy Feet 101

People seldom pay attention to their feet unless they hurt. Given all that the feet do for us in getting us around, keeping us upright, and providing independence, it would behoove us to give them some loving attention. If we do not do this, the feet are bound to endure problems, ranging from bad odor to painful foot afflictions. Foot care tips to keep the feet happy and healthy include washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet each day, cutting toenails straight across and rounding edges with a nail file, wearing shoes that fit well, checking the feet regularly for abnormalities, and even getting a pampering foot massage and pedicure periodically. If your feet are tired, a good soak and rest will help. If you want to learn more about how to take care of your feet so that they serve you well across your lifetime, make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide routine foot exams and additional foot care tips.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Every Day Foot Care
Tuesday, 18 July 2023 00:00

Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is found on the sole of the foot and consists of tissues that are tightly packed under the skin. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by heel pain when these tissues become inflamed and irritated from various things. These can include standing on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day, or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It may also happen from weight gain, or from repetitive motion while performing specific activities. Having poor circulation may also lead to developing plantar fasciitis, as a result of reduced blood flow to the plantar fascia. It is beneficial to wear shoes that have a cushioned heel, and this may help to prevent plantar fasciitis. There are also stretches that can be done which can strengthen the plantar fascia. These can include standing on a step while lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you find treatment and relief remedies for plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Wednesday, 12 July 2023 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 11 July 2023 00:00

Symptoms of Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is a condition that affects the heels in active children and young teenagers. Participating in running and jumping sporting events may cause Sever’s disease, as a result of, pressure on the heel. Sever’s disease is named after the American doctor James Sever, who discovered this condition in 1912. The heel pain that happens with Sever's disease generally occurs during a growth spurt and may be accompanied by swollen feet. Parents may notice their child is limping or walking on their tiptoes, and this can indicate Sever’s disease. Relief can begin with temporarily stopping the activity that caused this condition, in addition to frequently elevating the foot. As the affected foot heals, there may be specific stretches that can be done that can strengthen the heel. If your child has heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read more about Sever's Disease
Tuesday, 04 July 2023 00:00

Recovery From a Broken Ankle

If you have ever broken your ankle, you know how it can interfere with daily function and put a halt to many activities. It is crucial to promptly see a podiatrist who can evaluate the severity of the break and provide a treatment plan for recovery. Included in the recovery, at some point, will likely be movements that are designed to improve the strength, flexibility, and stability of the ankle. Once your cast or brace is removed, you may benefit from practicing several range of motion exercises. Simple movements, such as pointing the toes up and down and inward and outward, improve the ankle joint's motion. Flexibility exercises are for helping improve the muscular flexibility of the ankle. They include towel calf stretches and standing runner stretches. Strengthening exercises are for increasing the strength in an ankle that is weak from the fracture and immobilization. Resistance bands can be used to help perform these movements more comfortably. If you have a broken ankle, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide a plan for proper healing that will get you back to your normal functioning as quickly as possible and help future problems from the break down the road.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Broken Ankle Causes, Differences, Symptoms and Treatments
Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00

Purchasing Shoes Online

Shopping for shoes online has become increasingly popular despite the inability to try the desired shoes on before purchasing them. For people who prefer this method of buying shoes, it is beneficial that their feet are measured. Determining your correct shoe size can easily be accomplished. This can be done by standing on a piece of paper and tracing the foot. It is important to measure both length and width, and it may be easier to have a family member or friend do this. This is followed by using a conversion chart to find the right size. The height of the arch can be seen when the foot is dipped in water, followed by stepping on a piece of cardboard. A full footprint may indicate low arches. Conversely, if half the footprint is visible, this can be a sign of having high arches. If you would like to learn more about how to measure your foot for the correct shoe size, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 00:00

Athlete’s Foot and Shower Floors

If you are a new college student or are the parent of one, it can be important for you to learn about the dangers of contracting athlete’s foot from shower floors. Many colleges and universities across the country provide students with communal showers. However, if a student uses one of these showers without wearing shower shoes, they may be making themselves more susceptible to developing athlete’s foot. Since the fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in environments that are warm and moist, communal shower floors are an ideal place for this fungus to live and spread. A student may consider wearing a kind of flip flops or water shoes while using communal showers to mitigate their risk of contracting athlete’s foot. To learn more about preventing athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll from Pennsylvania.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Athlete’s Foot
Tuesday, 13 June 2023 00:00

What Has Caused My Ingrown Toenail?

Toenails grow over the skin, and an ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into the skin instead of over it. This can be an extremely painful foot condition, and may be caused by genetic reasons, or from wearing shoes that are too tight. It may also happen if a toe injury has occurred, such as stubbing the foot against a piece of furniture. Research has indicated that having poor posture may lead to developing an ingrown toenail. This may cause the toes to push together, and pressure can be exerted on them as they grow. Additionally, a common reason to have an ingrown toenail can be from cutting the toenails incorrectly, or from having poor foot hygiene. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can correct this painful condition, which may include surgery for permanent relief. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Joshua David Scoll of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, and Fairless Hills, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails
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