Orthotics are specially designed devices placed inside footwear to support, align, and improve the function of the feet and lower limbs. Off-the-shelf orthotics are prefabricated inserts that provide general support and cushioning for common foot issues. Functional foot orthoses are designed to correct abnormal movement patterns and improve biomechanics while walking or running. Custom molded total contact insoles are individually crafted to match the exact shape of the foot, offering precise support and pressure distribution. These devices can help treat plantar fasciitis, flat feet, heel pain, and overuse injuries. Benefits include improved comfort, better posture, reduced pain, and enhanced mobility. A podiatrist can assess foot structure and gait to recommend the most suitable orthotic option. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of custom-made orthotics with you. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

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 but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that 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 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 are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

Tinea pedis, commonly called athlete’s foot, is a contagious fungal infection that appears in several forms. Interdigital athlete’s foot affects the spaces between toes, causing itching, peeling, and cracks. Moccasin-type spreads across the soles and sides of the foot, leading to dry, thickened skin. Additionally, vesicular athlete’s foot produces painful blisters, while ulcerative forms can create open sores and increase infection risk. Treatment depends on severity, with mild cases responding to over-the-counter antifungal creams, along with good hygiene and moisture control. Severe or persistent infections may require prescription oral medications. Preventive care, such as keeping feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding barefoot exposure in public areas, helps reduce recurrence. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare condition where the skin is extremely delicate and can blister from minor friction or pressure. This condition is usually caused by inherited gene changes that make the skin layers less able to stay connected, so they separate easily with friction. The feet are often affected because of daily walking and shoe contact. Even simple movement can lead to painful blisters, open areas, and the risk of infection. Care focuses on protecting the skin and reducing irritation. Soft, well-fitted shoes and padded socks can help limit rubbing. Dressings are often used to shield sensitive areas and support healing. Regular foot checks are important to catch small problems before they worsen. Nail care and careful trimming of thickened skin may also be needed to reduce pressure points. Because this condition requires ongoing attention, care is often gentle and consistent rather than aggressive. If you or a loved one has fragile skin and develops foot wounds, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a careful evaluation and support.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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.

The foot and ankle are made up of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that must work together for smooth movement and balance. When any of these structures are strained, injured, or not aligned properly, pain and limited mobility can follow. Common concerns include tendon irritation, joint stiffness, ligament sprains, and structural changes that develop over time. A careful evaluation helps identify where the problem is coming from, and how it affects the way you walk or stand. This may include examining movement patterns, checking strength and flexibility, and reviewing your activity level and footwear. Treatment depends on the specific cause and may involve rest, supportive devices, targeted exercises, or other non-surgical options. In more advanced cases, additional procedures may be considered to restore function and reduce discomfort. If foot or ankle pain is interfering with daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and 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.