Items filtered by date: August 2020

A plantar wart is defined as a wart on the sole of the foot. It grows inward as a result of the pressure the feet endure on a daily basis, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. They appear to be flat, and many plantar warts have small, black specs in the center that are tiny blood vessels. Warts can be contagious, and are caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These environments include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It is important to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, and towels, as this may limit the spread of plantar warts. There are effective treatment methods available, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine which one is best for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An effective type of foot therapy is known as reflexology. This is practiced by applying pressure to specific parts of the foot that are linked to certain organs. By implementing this form of foot therapy, several health benefits may be noticed which may be helpful for preventing illness. Additionally, reflexology may be helpful in promoting relaxation by calming the nervous system, and this may help to reduce stress. When specific parts of the foot are touched, it is known to improve overall well being, and many patients have observed that their immune systems have become stronger. A podiatrist can help you to determine the best way to perform foot massages, and it is suggested that you schedule a consultation to learn more about this type of therapy.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

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

Patients who have corns on their feet are often aware of the discomfort they may cause. A corn is generally caused by excessive friction that may come from the shoes and socks that are worn. There are two types of corns that can develop on the feet. Hard corns can develop on top of the toes, or on the bottom of the feet. The center of the corn can be removed, and may take several weeks to heal. If the corn forms between the toes, it is identified as a soft corn, and can cause severe pain while walking. It may be prevented by wearing shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you notice you have either type of corn on your feet, it is advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can begin effective treatment as quickly as possible.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

The condition that is known as cracked heels can cause the skin to lose flexibility. The heels endure the weight of the body, and consistent pressure may cause the skin to develop deep cracks, which are often referred to as fissures. This foot ailment may occur for several reasons. These can include standing for long periods of time throughout the day, or from wearing shoes that have an open back. Medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also lead to the development of cracked heels. Additionally, the fat pads in the heels of overweight people may be affected, which may gradually cause cracks in the skin of the heels. Moderate relief may be found when the feet are frequently soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that this condition is monitored by a podiatrist, who can recommend effective treatment and prevention options.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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