Items filtered by date: July 2025

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, often requires professional treatment to fully resolve. Your podiatrist may suggest oral medications, topical treatments, or laser therapy, depending on the severity of the infection. Oral antifungal pills tend to be the most effective but can cause side effects like an upset stomach or liver concerns. Topical solutions avoid these risks but often take longer to show results and may not work for deep infections. Laser treatments offer a non-invasive option, although results can vary. Your podiatrist will consider your health history and the extent of the infection when recommending a treatment plan. Treatment success also depends on how carefully you follow instructions, as missing medication doses or stopping early can lead to failure. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested you visit a podiatrist to discuss safe and effective treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can lead to a range of painful foot conditions, including blisters, bunions, corns, and even long-term joint problems. Wearing tight or unsupportive footwear places stress on the foot’s structure, often causing inflammation, discomfort, and changes in gait. Choosing the right shoes is essential for maintaining foot health, especially for those who stand or walk for long periods of time. Proper fit includes adequate room for toes, good arch support, and a secure heel. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot type and recommend footwear that promotes comfort and prevents injury. If you are experiencing foot pain or are unsure about your shoe choices, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for expert guidance and relief.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Swollen feet and ankles are a common but often overlooked issue that can signal underlying health problems. Causes range from standing for long periods to medical conditions like gout, arthritis, poor circulation, or kidney and heart issues. The swelling may appear as puffiness or tightness in the skin and can be accompanied by pain, warmth, redness, or even shiny, stretched skin. Some people also experience a heavy or throbbing sensation, reduced mobility, or difficulty fitting into shoes. Chronic swelling may lead to skin breakdown or infections if left untreated. A podiatrist can identify the root cause of swollen feet through physical examination, imaging, and circulation testing. Treatment may include compression therapy, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, dietary guidance, or referrals for additional medical care. They also provide strategies to reduce swelling and improve circulation. Swollen feet can be uncomfortable. If you have developed this condition,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Sever's disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. Causes include running, jumping, and improper footwear. Symptoms include heel pain during activity, limping, or tenderness when the heel is squeezed. Risk factors include rapid growth spurts, high-impact sports, and flat or high-arched feet. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through examination and recommend treatments such as rest, stretching, and shoe modifications. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Foot and ankle issues are easy to overlook until they begin to interfere with daily life. Pain, swelling, numbness, or visible changes in the skin or nails are all reasons to seek care. A podiatrist specializes in identifying the cause behind these symptoms and creating a treatment plan that fits your needs. Whether it is recurring heel pain, a toenail that keeps growing inward, or a sore that will not heal, early attention can prevent more serious problems. Foot discomfort is not something to ignore or push through, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or poor circulation. Addressing minor issues before they become major ones can protect your mobility and overall well-being. If you are noticing any changes in how your feet feel or function, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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