Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection of the skin on the feet, can cause discomfort and itching, making it essential to understand its causes and preventive measures. This contagious infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making sweaty feet or damp socks and shoes prime breeding grounds. Walking barefoot in public places such as locker rooms, swimming pool areas, or communal showers increases the risk of exposure to the fungus. Sharing towels, shoes, or socks with an infected person can also facilitate its spread. Certain factors can make individuals more susceptible to athlete's foot, such as compromised immune systems, diabetes, or excessive sweating. To prevent this bothersome condition, it is helpful to maintain good foot hygiene by washing and drying your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Keep feet dry and avoid tight, non-breathable shoes. If you suspect you have athlete's foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for prompt treatment to prevent further complications and the spread of the infection.

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 Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry.  Our doctor 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 office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Comfort is important when it comes to shoes for hospital workers, and safety is even more so. A cushioned insole and a well padded interior are essential in providing all day comfort during extended shifts. Standing and walking for hours can take a toll on your feet, and having shoes that offer ample cushioning can help to reduce fatigue and discomfort. Having adequate arch support and a stable midsole can help maintain proper foot alignment and reduce strain on the feet and legs. Wearing shoes that have slip resistant outsoles are a must in healthcare settings, where floors can be wet or slippery. Breathability is also essential to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day. Lightweight fabrics allow air circulation, reducing the risk of sweating and odor. Finding shoes constructed with high quality materials helps ensure that your shoes can withstand daily use and the occasional spills or accidents that are part of the job. For more information on finding the right shoes for hospital workers, it is suggested that you consult with 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 Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma, a condition that often goes undetected, can cause considerable discomfort and disrupt daily life. This condition involves a thickening of the tissue around a nerve that runs between the third and fourth toes, typically causing a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. The causes of Morton's neuroma are multifaceted, often arising from repeated stress on the feet, and ill-fitting footwear that squeezes the toes. Additionally, reasons why Morton’s neuroma may develop can include having certain foot deformities that lead to pressure on the nerves. High heels and activities that involve repetitive forefoot impact can exacerbate the condition. Recognizing the factors that contribute to Morton's neuroma is the first step in seeking relief and adopting preventive measures to ensure continued foot health. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Katie Besselman, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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