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Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that thrives in warm and moist environments such as locker rooms, sweaty footwear, and damp socks. It may appear as scaly, peeling, or cracked skin between the toes or along the soles, sometimes with small blisters or redness. Symptoms often include itching, burning, and stinging sensations that can become more intense after removing shoes. The skin may feel dry, irritated, or tender to the touch, and the infection can spread if left untreated. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis by examining the affected areas and identifying the specific type of fungus involved. Treatment may include prescription-strength antifungal medications, guidance on hygiene practices, and advice on footwear or moisture control. In more persistent cases, a podiatrist may use advanced therapies to target deeper infections and prevent recurrence. Prompt professional care supports faster healing and reduces the risk of spreading the condition. If you notice ongoing itching or skin changes on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

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 Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. 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 offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A hammertoe occurs when one or more of the smaller toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like appearance. This condition may start with mild stiffness, but often progresses to a rigid contraction that makes wearing shoes painful. Friction from footwear can lead to corns, calluses, and skin irritation, while the altered position of the toe can disrupt balance and gait. Causes include muscle imbalance, wearing tight footwear, genetic factors, or underlying conditions such as arthritis. Early treatment focuses on relieving pressure with choosing wider shoes, toe pads, or custom orthotics, as well as stretching exercises to improve flexibility. More advanced cases may require surgical correction to restore proper alignment. Addressing a hammertoe promptly can prevent progressive damage and chronic discomfort. If you are experiencing pain or difficulty caused by a hammertoe deformity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Vincent, Vess of Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The skin on the bottom of the feet can be sensitive, despite it being able to support the weight of the body. The foot condition that is known as cracked heels can be uncomfortable, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that have an open back and standing on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day. Additionally, it can occur from not drinking adequate amounts of water, or from a lack of moisturizing the feet. Some patients notice they have cracked heels from taking extremely hot baths or showers, or from using harsh soaps on their feet. Severely cracked heels may lead to developing fissures, which can bleed and become infected. It is beneficial for people who are diabetic to pay extra attention to their feet, and this may help to avoid complicated foot conditions from developing. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions, in addition to learning about effective prevention techniques.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Vincent, Vess from Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker recently suffered an ankle injury while playing against the Tennessee Titans. He was doubtful for the game against the Falcons and wound up not playing. Parker, who was a first round draft pick for the Dolphins, was considered to have the potential to have a good season. Regardless of whether the injury will take him out for an extended period or just one game, losing Parker for any length of time will be a blow for the Dolphins.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Vincent, Vess of Fourth River Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Pittsburgh, White Oak, and McKeesport,PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.