Items filtered by date: March 2026

Pain in the ball of the foot can make everyday activities such as walking or standing uncomfortable. This area of the foot contains the metatarsal bones, which are the long bones that connect the middle of the foot to the toes. Several different problems can cause pain in this region. Common causes include stress fractures, nerve irritation, inflammation of the joints, or a condition called metatarsalgia, which develops when too much pressure is placed on the front of the foot. Because many conditions produce similar symptoms, it can sometimes be difficult to determine the exact cause during a basic exam. Imaging tests may be helpful in these situations. MRI scans allow podiatrists to see bones and soft tissues in greater detail. This helps identify the true source of the problem. If you have ongoing pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot 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.

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially the areas between the toes. The infection often causes itching, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes cracking or burning. The fungus grows best in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public showers. Research shows that tinea pedis occurs more frequently in males than in females. One reason is that men often spend long hours in closed shoes for work, sports, or daily activities, which creates the damp conditions that fungi prefer. Men also tend to sweat more from the feet, which further encourages fungal growth. Repeated use of shared athletic spaces may also increase exposure. Good foot hygiene, wearing dry socks, and breathable footwear can help reduce risk. When foot itching, scaling, or irritation does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate 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, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Living with diabetes requires daily attention to foot health. High blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation over time. When feeling decreases, small cuts or blisters may go unnoticed. Poor blood flow can also slow healing, allowing minor injuries to become serious wounds. Common concerns include dry, cracked skin, calluses, infections, and open sores. Changes in foot shape or skin color should also be taken seriously. Even a small problem can worsen quickly without proper care. Washing and drying the feet carefully, applying moisturizer to prevent cracking, and wearing well-fitting shoes are simple but important steps. Checking the bottoms of the feet each day helps detect changes. Regular visits with a podiatrist provide professional monitoring and early treatment when needed. Managing blood sugar levels also plays a key role in protecting foot health. If you have diabetes and notice redness, swelling, numbness, or a sore on your foot that is not healing, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 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.

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 offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bone spurs are bony growths that develop along the edges of bones, often in the foot or heel. They usually form over time due to repeated stress, inflammation, or pressure on a joint or tendon. In the foot, bone spurs are commonly associated with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or chronic tendon irritation. Some bone spurs cause no symptoms, while others lead to sharp pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing. The area may feel tender, and discomfort can increase when wearing certain shoes. Although the spur itself is a bony projection, the pain often comes from surrounding inflammation rather than the bone growth alone. A podiatrist can diagnose bone spurs through examination and imaging studies. Treatment may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and targeted exercises to relieve strain. In more persistent cases, additional procedures may be considered. If you have bone spurs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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.

Ingrown toenails are often blamed on trimming habits or wearing tight shoes, but underlying foot structure can sometimes influence how often the problem returns. In most cases, changes to overall foot alignment are not needed to prevent or manage this condition. Many people develop ingrown nails despite having otherwise typical foot mechanics. There are situations, however, where a flattened arch changes how pressure is distributed across the forefoot. This altered loading can increase stress along the edges of the toenails, especially while walking or standing for long periods of time. Gradually, that added pressure may worsen nail irritation or make healing more difficult after treatment. Addressing footwear, nail care, and pressure relief usually remains the primary focus, but structural factors may be considered in select cases. If ingrown toenails are persistent or painful, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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.