A corn is a small, thickened area of skin that develops as a protective response to repeated friction and pressure. Corns are usually smaller and deeper than calluses, and may have a hard center that can cause tenderness. Calluses tend to be larger, flatter areas of thickened skin that form over wider regions. Corns often appear on the side of the feet from wearing tight shoes, while calluses may develop on the ball of the foot from activities such as running barefoot. Risk factors include poor footwear, repetitive motion, and foot structure. A podiatrist can safely treat corns, reduce pressure, and recommend proper footwear to prevent recurrence. Corns can be painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have a foot corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and hardened, eventually splitting under pressure. This often develops from standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods, which places extra stress on the heel. Being overweight can also increase pressure and contribute to skin breakdown. Symptoms include rough skin, visible cracks, and discomfort while walking. Risk factors include poor hydration, lack of foot care, and wearing open back shoes that do not provide support. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin, recommend moisturizing treatments, and provide guidance to prevent worsening of the condition. If you have developed painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this problem.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. 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 office located in Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the arch of the foot can develop from strain, injury, or structural problems that affect how the foot supports body weight. The arch is made of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue that help absorb shock while walking and standing. When these structures become irritated, pain may occur along the bottom or inside of the foot. It can range from dull aching to sharp discomfort. Some patients notice stiffness in the morning, swelling, or increased pain after long periods of activity. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overly high arches. Tendon strain or overuse from sports and exercise may also be factors. Wearing poor footwear and standing for extended periods of time may place added stress on the arch. A podiatrist can evaluate the arch and movement of the foot to identify the source of the pain. Treatment may include supportive footwear, targeted exercises, or anti-inflammatory care. Other therapies may be prescribed to relieve pressure and improve function. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate  treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

An avulsion fracture in the foot occurs when a strong pull from a tendon or ligament causes a small piece of bone to separate from the main bone. An avulsion fracture often happens during quick movements, such as twisting the foot or rolling the ankle. It is common among football players, ballet dancers, gymnasts, and skiers. Symptoms include sudden pain at the time of injury, followed by swelling, bruising, and trouble putting weight on the foot. An avulsion fracture often affects the outer edge of the foot or the heel. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury by examining the foot and ordering imaging studies to confirm the location and severity. Care includes protecting the injured area, reducing pressure, and prescribing devices that keep the foot stable. If you have symptoms of an avulsion foot fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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