Items filtered by date: October 2022

A wart is a growth on the skin that is caused by contact with a virus, namely the human papilloma virus, or HPV. Warts can grow anywhere on the body, but when they are on the feet, they are known as plantar warts. They look a bit like a callus that is growing on the bottom of the foot. Although plantar warts are not generally painful, they can be irritated by pressure on the ball of the foot. Since warts are contagious, it is a good idea not to touch them with bare hands, because the virus easily can spread to another body part. Plantar warts appear as patches of skin with dark spots. When they form as a cluster, they are known as mosaic warts. A plantar wart will likely go away on its own, but that may take some time, even as long as a year. If non-prescription medication is not effective after a few months, or if the wart looks to be infected, it is a good idea to seek medical help. A podiatrist can examine the area and remove the wart by freezing it, applying medication, or in some cases performing surgery.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Gerald McCool, DPM from McCool Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

A bunion starts out as a small bony protrusion, and can become a deformity if not promptly treated. It is a progressive disorder, and can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Genetics is another reason why some people may get bunions, and frequently performing foot stretches may diminish the discomfort. Additionally, these exercises and stretches can help to relieve overall foot soreness. There is a muscle that runs from the bottom of the big toe to the forward area of the arch. When this muscle is strengthened, it can help to align the big toe, where the bunion is located. An effective stretch that can accomplish this is done by picking up a napkin with the foot, and the toes will scrunch to grab it. Research has indicated that getting frequent foot massages may help to relax the adductor muscles, which may gradually strengthen the arch. When the foot is rolled on a tennis ball, the plantar fascia may become stronger, and this may positively affect the arch. If you would like more information about the benefits of how stretching the feet can help bunions, please consult with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Gerald McCool, DPM of McCool Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

A broken foot often requires immediate medical attention. It generally causes severe pain and discomfort and can happen for a variety of reasons. These include a foot injury, twisting it well beyond its normal range of motion, or an accident. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. If the foot is severely fractured, a bone may protrude from the skin, appearing to be displaced. A mildly broken foot may be confused with a sprain, because the two types of injuries share similar symptoms. Some patients hear a popping sound, which is often indicative of a broken foot, rather than a sprained ankle. A proper diagnosis can confirm a broken foot by having an X-ray taken. Treatment can begin by having a cast put on the affected foot, which is helpful in providing stability as the healing process occurs. Crutches are often recommended to use while the foot is in a cast, helping the patient to remain mobile. If you have broken your foot, please call a podiatrist’s office as quickly as possible for proper treatment techniques.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Gerald McCool, DPM from McCool Podiatry. 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 El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.