Items filtered by date: April 2024

Athlete's foot, known medically as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It thrives in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers. This condition is caused by various types of fungi, primarily belonging to the dermatophyte group. Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, and stinging sensations, frequently between the toes or on the soles of the feet. As the infection progresses, the skin may become red, cracked, and blistered. In severe cases, it can lead to the development of painful ulcers or secondary bacterial infections. Athlete's foot is extremely contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected surfaces or by sharing contaminated items like towels or shoes. Practicing good foot hygiene, wearing breathable footwear, and keeping feet dry can help prevent the occurrence of this bothersome condition. If you have developed this ailment, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who will often prescribe medication for relief and healing.

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 Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas.  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 Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swelling in the feet, otherwise known as edema, has a range of mild to severe causes. Mild edema may result from standing or sitting for long periods, especially in hot weather. This causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. Swelling can also be a side effect of certain medications, hormonal changes, or dietary factors like excessive salt intake. In more severe cases, edema may be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency. In these cases, the body’s fluid balance is off, leading to fluid retention and swelling in the feet and ankles. Certain injuries, infections, or blood clots in the legs can also cause localized edema. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can diagnose the underlying cause of foot swelling. They may recommend lifestyle modifications, compression therapy, medication management, or other treatments to address the cause. If you have swelling in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to find relief.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Richard Galperin, DPM of Texas. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot foot, also known as Charcot neuroarthropathy, is a condition characterized by progressive weakening and degeneration of the bones and joints in the foot or ankle. It often affects individuals with peripheral neuropathy, such as those with diabetes. One significant complication of Charcot foot is the development of foot ulcers, which can result from pressure points and trauma due to the structural changes in the foot. These ulcers are particularly problematic as they can lead to serious infections and even amputation if left untreated. Unfortunately, Charcot foot and its associated ulcers may go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed initially due to symptoms resembling other foot conditions or neuropathic pain masking typical signs of inflammation. Podiatrists provide comprehensive care for Charcot foot including diagnosis, wound care, orthotic interventions, and patient education to prevent complications and improve the quality of life for affected individuals. If you feel a weakening in your feet or ankles, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. If you have Charcot foot, early intervention can thwart severe problems.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Foot orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to provide support, correct foot alignment, and alleviate various foot-related issues. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, and overpronation. Orthotics work by redistributing pressure, stabilizing the foot, and correcting biomechanical imbalances. To determine the need for orthotics, podiatrists conduct a thorough examination, including assessing foot structure, gait analysis, and discussing symptoms. Custom orthotics are tailored specifically to an individual's foot shape and needs. Types of orthotics include rigid orthotics, which are made from harder materials for maximum support and control, and soft orthotics which provide cushioning and support for conditions like diabetic foot ulcers. Semi-rigid orthotics offer a balance between support and cushioning. Properly fitted orthotics can significantly improve comfort, mobility, and overall foot health. If you suffer from foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics can help you.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Recovery from foot surgery can be a challenging process, but there are steps you can take to expedite healing and regain mobility sooner. This can begin by adhering strictly to the post-operative instructions provided by your podiatric team, including rest, elevation, and medication schedules. Proper nutrition is essential for supporting the body's healing processes, so focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infections, and change dressings as instructed. Consider using assistive devices such as crutches or walkers to avoid putting weight on the foot during the initial stages of recovery. Stay connected with your podiatrist, attending follow-up appointments and addressing any concerns promptly. Finally, be patient and give your body the time to heal properly, avoiding activities that could delay recovery. If you have questions about recovery from your specific type of foot surgery, it is suggested that you consult with your podiatrist who can guide you on the best healing approach.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Richard Galperin, DPM of Texas. 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 Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome, a lesser-known foot ailment, often eludes mainstream attention. However, its impact can be significant for those affected. This condition occurs when the cuboid bone, situated in the outer midfoot, becomes dislocated or irritated, leading to discomfort and limited mobility. Typically overlooked or misdiagnosed, Cuboid syndrome manifests through symptoms like pain along the outer foot, swelling, and difficulty in bearing weight. One of the perplexing aspects of cuboid syndrome is its elusive nature, often mimicking other foot conditions, complicating accurate diagnosis. It commonly arises from activities involving repetitive stress or sudden trauma to the foot, such as running, dancing, or jumping. Additionally, certain foot structures and gait abnormalities can predispose individuals to this syndrome. Despite its obscurity, recognizing the signs and seeking timely treatment is critical for managing cuboid syndrome effectively. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Richard Galperin, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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