Items filtered by date: May 2024

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot, extends its reach far beyond the realm of athletes. This fungal infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making anyone susceptible, regardless of their athletic pursuits. Individuals who frequent communal spaces like gyms, swimming pools, or shared showers are at highest risk. Preventive measures play an important role in warding off this uncomfortable infection. Keeping feet clean and dry, especially between toes, helps create an unsatisfactory environment for fungi to flourish. Wearing breathable footwear made of natural materials and changing socks regularly can minimize moisture buildup. Avoiding walking barefoot in public areas and using antifungal powders or sprays as a preventive measure can further reduce the risk of infection. Athlete’s foot can be treated by a podiatrist. If you notice signs of this uncomfortable foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you visit this type of doctor who can prescribe medication for effective treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates.  Our doctors 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 our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport appealing to all ages and skill levels, combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Played on a smaller court with a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball, it is enjoyed for its simplicity and social aspect. However, like many physical activities, pickleball can pose risks to foot health. Injuries to the feet during pickleball commonly result from strain or overuse due to sudden movements, pivoting, and repetitive footwork. Such injuries may include sprains, strains, and stress fractures. To prevent foot injuries while playing pickleball, it is important to stay active, stretch before and after playing, and engage in other physical activities to maintain overall fitness and foot strength. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking water helps to prevent muscle cramps and fatigue. If you have persistent foot pain or injuries from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist. A foot doctor can offer guidance on injury prevention techniques and provide treatment to alleviate discomfort and promote foot health.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Symptoms of a broken toe typically involve immediate and severe pain at the site of the injury, which might worsen when the toe is moved or pressure is applied. Other common symptoms include swelling, bruising, and a visible deformity if the break is severe, such as the toe appearing at an abnormal angle. If the skin is broken during injury, there's also a potential for infection. Treatment for a broken toe depends on the break's severity and the fracture's nature. Treatments such as rest, elevation, and buddy taping are often sufficient for minor fractures. Sturdy and comfortable shoes are important to protect the toe during healing time. More severe cases, such as those involving a displaced bone or multiple breaks, may require a podiatrist to realign the broken bones. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary. Podiatrists may also recommend wearing a cast or a special walking boot to immobilize the toe during healing. Regular follow-ups are needed to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist promptly for evaluation and treatment. 

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When it comes to gardening, ensuring proper foot protection is essential to prevent injuries and maintain comfort throughout the day. To minimize the risk of injury, it is helpful for gardeners to invest in sturdy, closed-toe footwear with slip-resistant soles that provide traction on various surfaces. Additionally, garden boots or shoes with reinforced toes and puncture-resistant soles can offer extra protection from hazards that may be found in the garden, such as thorny areas. Wearing properly fitting footwear is vital to prevent blisters, chafing, and discomfort during long hours of working in the garden. In hot weather, breathable materials can help keep the feet cool and dry, while waterproof footwear is essential for working in wet or muddy conditions. If you have incurred a foot injury while working outdoors, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.