Flint Office
1303 S. Linden Rd., Suite D
Flint, MI 48532
Psoriasis and athlete's foot are two distinct conditions that can affect the feet, but they differ significantly in cause, symptoms, and treatment. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder causing thick, scaly, and often itchy patches of skin. It is not contagious and may be triggered by stress, genetics, or environmental factors. In contrast, athlete's foot is a contagious fungal infection caused by dermatophytes thriving in warm, damp environments like locker rooms and shoes. It presents as red, itchy, peeling skin, often between the toes. Prevention varies by condition. Psoriasis management includes avoiding triggers and keeping skin moisturized, while athlete's foot requires keeping feet dry, using antifungal powders, and wearing breathable footwear. Treatments also differ. Psoriasis is managed with topical steroids or systemic medications, while athlete's foot responds to antifungal creams. If you are experiencing either of these foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and tailor treatment care effectively.
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 one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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:
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:
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 Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Nighttime foot cramps can be a distressing experience, as they interrupt sleep and can cause significant pain. These involuntary muscle contractions often occur due to muscle fatigue, inadequate potassium intake, or low magnesium levels. Wearing poorly fitting shoes, particularly high heels that restrict blood flow or lack proper support, can also contribute to these painful episodes. Unlike restless leg syndrome, which creates an urge to move the legs, foot cramps involve sharp pain and tightening of the muscles. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause of nocturnal foot cramps and recommend appropriate treatments, such as improving footwear choices, addressing muscle fatigue, or identifying potential deficiencies. They may also suggest a series of exercises designed to strengthen foot muscles or enhance flexibility to prevent future cramps. If you regularly experience painful foot cramps at night, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common peroneal nerve dysfunction is a condition where damage to the peroneal nerve leads to weakness, numbness, or loss of movement in the lower leg and foot. The peroneal nerve branches from the sciatic nerve and controls muscles responsible for lifting the foot and toes. Dysfunction in this nerve can cause foot drop, making it difficult to lift the foot when walking. Causes include direct trauma, prolonged pressure on the nerve, knee injuries, or underlying conditions like diabetes. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, nerve conduction studies, and imaging to assess nerve health and identify any underlying issues. Treatment depends on the severity and may involve targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, braces or splints to support the foot, and in some cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for optimal recovery and preventing long-term complications. If you have symptoms as described, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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