Friction blisters are small fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin, often caused by rubbing, heat, or moisture. They commonly develop on the feet from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, walking or running long distances, or wearing damp socks. The friction causes the layers of skin to separate, allowing fluid to collect and form a bubble-like sore. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, swelling, and a clear or sometimes bloody fluid inside. Blisters may be painful, especially when pressure is applied, and can become infected if popped or cared for improperly. Infected blisters may appear red, warm, or filled with pus. A podiatrist can diagnose the type and severity of a blister and determine if there is an underlying cause like poor foot mechanics or inappropriate footwear. Treatment includes draining the blister safely to prevent infection, recommending footwear changes, or applying protective padding. If you have a painful friction blister, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective prevention tips and  treatment solutions.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Robert Dunne, DPM of Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

High arch pain, or pes cavus, occurs when the foot has an unusually high arch. This puts extra stress on the ball and heel of the foot. Common symptoms include pain, instability, and difficulty walking. Other issues include metatarsalgia, calluses, ankle arthritis, and Achilles tendonitis. High arch pain can be caused by neurological disorders, muscle imbalances, or previous injuries. A podiatrist can help by assessing the foot’s structure and offering treatments, such as custom orthotics and specialized footwear. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pain and improve foot function. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Gout,  one of the oldest known diseases, is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It most commonly affects the big toe joint, leading to sudden, intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, obesity, excessive alcohol intake, certain medications, and family history. Attacks can be severe enough to limit walking and daily activities. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, provide treatment to reduce pain and inflammation, and offer guidance on lifestyle changes to prevent future flare-ups. If you experience sharp pain or swelling in your big toe joint, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Toenail fungus is a common infection caused by various fungi, including those responsible for tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot, and onychomycosis, which specifically affects the nails. It develops when fungi invade the nail bed or surrounding skin due to warm, moist environments, poor foot hygiene, or minor injuries. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, excessive sweating, and compromised immune systems. Symptoms include thickened, discolored, brittle, or crumbly nails, and sometimes itching or discomfort. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific type of fungal infection and offer effective treatments such as topical or oral antifungal medications and nail debridement. If you have the beginning symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem and offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Robert Dunne, DPM of Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.