Items filtered by date: July 2020

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and can endure numerous aches and pains as a result of bearing the weight of the body. A common type of foot pain comes from developing a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This ailment affects the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The discomfort is often felt in the heel and may feel its worst upon arising in the morning. Additionally, heel pain can be associated with a heel spur. This is described as a small growth that extends from the heel, and can develop due to repetitive stress that can come from frequently participating in running and jumping activities. A stress fracture is a hairline crack in one of the bones in the foot and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This type of foot injury gradually develops. Common symptoms may include a stabbing pain and general discomfort in the part of the foot that is affected. If you have any type of foot pain it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist can properly diagnose your condition and offer you the best treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Odin De Los Reyes from Connecticut. Our doctor 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:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

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 offices located in Southbury and Farmington, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tinea Pedis, also known as “Athlete’s Foot,” is a fungal infection of the feet. There are many types of fungus that can cause athlete's foot. These fungi live and thrive in moist environments. Consequently, the fungus is commonly spread in shower stalls, locker rooms, and damp footwear. Proper foot hygiene, particularly keeping the feet clean and dry, is one of the key steps to preventing athlete’s foot. The most repeated signs of athlete’s foot can include a rash, pain, itching, and burning feet typically between the toes. If you are experiencing these symptoms it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to provide proper treatment which may include a topical cream, spray, or powder. 

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 Dr. Odin De Los Reyes from Connecticut. 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 offices located in Southbury and Farmington, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical term for a bunion is referred to as hallux valgus. It appears as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe and may cause wearing shoes to be uncomfortable. The big toe can become misaligned, and may affect the remaining toes. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include pain, inflammation, and the toe may appear red. If a bunion is left untreated, arthritis may develop, which can cause deeper joint pain. Genetic factors may play a significant role in developing a bunion, in addition to wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. If you notice a bump extending from your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat bunions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Odin De Los Reyes of Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

There is a form of arthritis known as gout, which is caused by excess uric acid in the blood. It can be caused by eating foods that are high in purine levels. These can consist of shellfish, red meat, and drinks that have a large sugar content. Common symptoms that many patients experience can include swelling, redness, and  severe pain in the big toe and surrounding areas. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is rested, and it can help to refrain from wearing shoes. Obesity may be a contributing factor in developing gout so it is beneficial to lose weight by eating healthy foods, and by drinking plenty of fresh water daily. If you suffer from frequent gout attacks, it is advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment options for you.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Odin De Los Reyes from Connecticut. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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