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Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It frequently develops between the toes, where warmth and moisture can create an environment where fungus grows easily. The infection can also affect the soles and sides of the feet. Athlete's foot can spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms can include itching, burning, and redness. The skin can become cracked or scaly and can begin to peel. Some patients develop small blisters or areas of raw skin. Moist feet and wearing tight-fitting shoes can create conditions that allow the fungus to grow. The infection can cause significant discomfort and can spread to other parts of the foot when it is not properly treated.

A podiatrist can examine the affected skin to determine whether athlete's foot is causing the symptoms. Some skin conditions can look similar, so an accurate diagnosis is important for choosing appropriate treatment. A podiatrist can evaluate the location, appearance, and severity of the affected areas. Treatment can include prescription-strength antifungal medication that targets the fungus. Medication can be applied directly to the skin in some cases. A podiatrist can also prescribe oral antifungal medication for infections that are difficult to control. The toenails can be examined because fungal infections can sometimes spread between the skin and nails. Professional treatment can help control the infection and reduce uncomfortable symptoms.

Athlete's foot can interfere with walking and other daily activities when the skin becomes painful or irritated. Cracks in the skin can also create openings that increase the risk of another infection. A podiatrist can monitor how the affected skin responds to treatment and make adjustments when symptoms continue. Patients who experience repeated infections can also be evaluated for factors that allow moisture to remain around the feet. Podiatry care can focus on controlling the current infection, protecting damaged skin, and reducing the chance of recurring problems. Prompt evaluation is especially important when symptoms become severe or continue to spread. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which  may include prescribed medication.

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. John C. Lawlor from Florida.  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 our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome affects the cuboid, a small bone on the outer side of the midfoot. It can develop when the cuboid shifts slightly from its normal position because of stress or an injury. The condition is sometimes associated with an ankle sprain or repeated strain from activities like running and jumping. Patients may feel pain along the outside of the foot, especially when putting weight on it. The area can also feel tender when touched. Some patients notice discomfort when moving the foot or when walking. Because several foot problems can cause similar symptoms, a podiatrist can examine the foot and determine whether the cuboid is involved.

A podiatrist can assess the foot by reviewing the patient’s symptoms and performing a physical examination. The examination can focus on the location of pain, foot movement, and areas of tenderness. Imaging may also be used when another injury needs to be ruled out. Treatment for cuboid syndrome focuses on restoring normal foot function and reducing pain. A podiatrist can use specific foot techniques to help return the cuboid to its proper position. Professional care can also include supportive measures that reduce stress on the area while it heals. The treatment approach depends on the severity of symptoms and the factors that contributed to the condition.

Cuboid syndrome can interfere with walking, exercise, and other activities that place pressure on the foot. Prompt evaluation can help determine whether the symptoms are coming from the cuboid or another foot injury. A podiatrist can monitor the foot and assess changes in pain, movement, and function as treatment progresses. Professional care can also help identify contributing factors, like repeated stress or an earlier ankle injury. Addressing the source of the problem can help support proper foot function and reduce the chance of continued discomfort. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A medial ankle injury affects the inner side of the ankle, where bones, tendons, and supporting tissues work together to provide stability. These injuries can develop from sudden trauma, repeated stress, or an awkward landing. Common symptoms include inner ankle pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Pain may increase when walking, running, or pushing off the foot. Early evaluation can help prevent a manageable injury from becoming more limiting.

One cause is an ankle twist that forces the foot outward or places excessive stress on the structures along the inside of the joint. Direct impacts, sports-related movements, and overuse can also contribute. Risk factors include previous ankle injuries, sudden increases in physical activity, and footwear that provides inadequate support. People participating in running, court sports, or activities requiring quick direction changes may experience greater stress on the medial ankle.

A podiatrist begins treatment by reviewing how the injury occurred and examining swelling, range of motion, and ankle stability. Imaging, including X-rays or other studies, may be recommended when a fracture or significant tissue injury is suspected. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include activity modification, supportive footwear, or bracing, 

Healing should progress gradually rather than through continued activity that increases pain. A podiatrist may recommend exercises that improve strength, flexibility, and ankle control as recovery advances. Follow-up visits allow the provider to monitor progress and adjust treatment when needed. Returning to sports too quickly can increase reinjury risk, so activity should increase according to professional guidance and milestones. Ankle injuries can cause difficulty in completing daily tasks. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more toes to bend at the middle joint instead of lying flat. The affected toe can take on a claw-like shape, making walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. The second toe is affected most often, although other toes can develop the problem. Wearing tight, narrow shoes and high heels place repeated pressure on the toes. This pressure can change how muscles and tendons work, causing the toe to stay bent. Some people are born with hammertoe, while others develop it because of foot structure or long-term shoe pressure. Early evaluation helps prevent the deformity from becoming more difficult to treat.

Symptoms usually begin with a toe that feels stiff or rubs against the inside of a shoe. Pain can increase while walking because the bent joint presses against footwear that lacks proper support. Corns can develop on the top of the toe, and calluses can form on the ball of the foot. As the deformity becomes more fixed, straightening the toe becomes difficult. A podiatrist examines the foot, checks toe movement, and determines whether other foot problems are contributing to the deformity. X-rays also help evaluate joint alignment and guide treatment decisions. They also look for pressure areas, toe flexibility, and skin changes before recommending treatment.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving toe position before the deformity becomes permanent. A podiatrist recommends shoes with a wide toe box and provides custom orthotics when abnormal foot mechanics add pressure. Padding or splinting supplied by the podiatrist helps protect irritated areas and improve toe alignment. The goal is to improve comfort and foot function and make shoes fit more comfortably. If you have pain from a hammertoe deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor from Florida. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.