May 2024

Athlete's foot, a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, is usually treated with different types of antifungal medications. These can come in the form of creams, sprays, and powders, as well as oral medications for more severe cases. These treatments can kill the fungus that causes the infection. The infection usually clears up within a few weeks of topical treatment application. Keeping your feet clean and dry when treating athlete’s foot is important, as the fungus thrives in moist environments. Changing socks regularly, using antifungal powders in shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, such as locker rooms or swimming pools, can help prevent the spread of the infection. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, might recommend a stronger prescription medication for more persistent cases. Podiatrists can also guide proper foot hygiene to prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for the right treatment options for you. 

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 one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center.  Our doctors 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 offices located in Petaluma and Sonoma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers pose a serious risk to those with diabetes, often flying under the radar until they become severe. The condition arises due to poor blood circulation and nerve damage, making it less likely for individuals to notice when their feet are injured. These ulcers typically occur on the soles of the feet or pressure points like the heels and toes, where friction and pressure are high. After a podiatrist removes dead tissue and cleanses the affected area, it is important to keep weight off the foot to prevent further complications and promote healing. Prevention is key, involving daily foot inspections, proper footwear, regular foot hygiene, and blood sugar management. Consulting a podiatrist is essential for diabetic patients to receive specialized care and guidance in preventing and managing foot ulcers. With their expertise, individuals can better safeguard their feet and overall well-being, avoiding the potentially devastating consequences of diabetic foot ulcers. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you add a podiatrist to your healthcare team.

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 one of our podiatrists from North Bay Ankle & Foot Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Petaluma and Sonoma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.