Diagnosing plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory condition in the foot which causes heel pain, involves an examination from a podiatrist. A podiatrist may first discuss medical history and symptoms with the patient. Then, this foot doctor will perform a physical examination of the feet, checking for signs such as tenderness in the heel and arch areas. They also check for flat feet, high arches, foot swelling, and tight Achilles tendons. The doctor may also order X-rays or ultrasounds to rule out other potential causes of heel pain. Additionally, during the examination, the podiatrist may assess the range of motion and gait for a comprehensive understanding of the foot mechanics. This combination of methods helps the podiatrist diagnose plantar fasciitis and tailor an effective treatment plan to alleviate pain and promote healing. For an accurate diagnosis and successful management of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. 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 Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, can be influenced by various environmental factors. Moisture plays a significant role in its development, as the fungus thrives in warm, damp conditions. Sweaty feet trapped in tight, poorly ventilated shoes or damp environments, like locker rooms and communal showers, create an ideal breeding ground for the fungus. Therefore, keeping your feet dry and clean is essential in preventing athlete's foot. Furthermore, sharing contaminated surfaces, such as towels or footwear, can contribute to its spread. It is critical to practice good foot hygiene and avoid sharing personal items with infected individuals to reduce the risk. Preventive measures include wearing breathable shoes, changing socks regularly, and using antifungal powders or creams. Proper foot hygiene and avoiding exposure to fungus-prone areas are key in reducing the likelihood of athlete's foot.  If you have developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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 Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. 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 Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, affects many people, causing thickened, crumbling, and discolored nails. While traditional treatments have limitations, laser therapy has emerged as a promising solution. Laser treatment for fungal toenails shows potential in inhibiting fungal growth and clearing infections. This option is particularly beneficial for individuals with kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or medication intolerance. Experts stress early intervention to prevent the spread of toenail fungus to other body areas. Laser treatment typically involves two sessions, with results becoming apparent in approximately two months. Comprehensive treatment covers all nails in the affected area, and is often complemented by topical creams for enhanced efficacy. Patience is an important factor in recovery from fungal toenail infections. Toenails may require up to 18 months for the nail to completely grow out. Laser treatment provides a ray of hope for those with persistent fungal nail infections. To find out more about treating toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, may necessitate surgery in severe cases when conservative treatments prove ineffective. The surgical approach typically involves releasing tension on the plantar fascia, either partially or completely. It is essential to understand that surgery is considered a last resort after exhausting non-invasive options. Recovery can be lengthy, requiring patience and adherence to post-operative instructions. Complications, though rare, may include infection, nerve damage, or incomplete pain relief. Prior to surgery, thorough consultation with a podiatrist is imperative for accurate diagnosis and determining the appropriateness of surgical intervention. While success rates are generally high, individual outcomes vary. Understanding the facts about plantar fasciitis surgery aids in informed decision-making, emphasizing the importance of exploring conservative treatments before considering surgical options for this persistent and often debilitating foot condition. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM of Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor foot circulation refers to a condition where blood flow to the feet is compromised, leading to various types of discomfort and health issues. These often arise from underlying conditions, like peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or vascular disorders, which hinder the efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Cold feet, numbness, and tingling sensations are common indicators of inadequate blood circulation. Implementing effective physical interventions is paramount in managing this condition. Regular exercise, such as walking or gentle stretches, promotes blood flow and strengthens the muscles that assist in circulation. Elevating the legs when sitting or lying down helps to reduce swelling and encourages blood flow. Proper hydration and maintaining a healthy weight also contribute significantly to overall circulatory health. If you have poor circulation and notice symptoms in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective treatment methods.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Mark Isenberg, DPM of Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.