Eczema and athlete's foot are two common skin conditions that can cause discomfort, but they have distinct characteristics. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, typically presents as dry, itchy patches of skin that may be red and inflamed. It often occurs on areas such as the hands, feet, and behind the knees, and is associated with a history of allergies or asthma. In contrast, athlete's foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that primarily affects the feet, especially between the toes. Symptoms include intense itching, burning sensations, and flaky, peeling skin. Athlete's foot may also cause redness and blisters. While both conditions can be itchy, the location and appearance of the symptoms help differentiate them. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and offer prescribed medication for relief.
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. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. 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 office located in Hazlet, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. This condition often leads to sharp heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Runners are especially susceptible to plantar fasciitis due to the repetitive stress placed on the feet during training. Common causes include overuse, inadequate footwear, and changes in running surfaces. Risk factors also encompass high body weight, tight calf muscles, and abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches. Plantar fasciitis can be painful and may cause difficulty completing daily activities. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment methods.
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. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. 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 our office located in Hazlet, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Proper foot care is vital for diabetic patients, as diabetes can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation, which increase the risk of foot complications. Regularly inspecting the feet for cuts, blisters, or redness is essential, as early detection can prevent serious issues. Keeping the feet clean and dry helps reduce the risk of infections. It is important to moisturize the skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent excess moisture. Wearing well-fitted shoes is important to prevent friction and blisters, while checking inside shoes for foreign objects daily can help avoid injuries. Maintaining blood sugar levels within a target range contributes to overall foot health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist and schedule routine visits. This type of doctor can help you to manage this serious condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hazlet, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
