October 2023

A blister is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the skin due to repetitive friction. This typically arises when skin continually rubs against objects, such as the inside of shoes. The friction causes skin layers to separate, prompting the body to fill the void with fluid as a protective mechanism against further harm. Blisters can be painful, especially when wearing shoes that contribute to the friction. They are common and can be attributed to factors like poorly fitting shoes, foot deformities, sweat, prolonged exercise, or using unsuitable socks. It is advisable to refrain from popping blisters, as this exposes the wound to potential infections. Instead, protect it with a bandage and eliminate the friction source. There are other conditions with symptoms resembling blisters, such as impetigo, eczema, and burns. If you have a foot blister that does not heal in a reasonable time, worsens, or appears infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can distinguish it from other ailments, treat it, and provide prevention tips.

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 Michael Metyk, DPM of Florida. 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 office located in Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Our feet bear the weight of our entire beings, making them the foundation of our bodies. Incorporating stretching and exercising into your routine can provide many benefits, including proper foot health. Begin with toe stretches by curling and uncurling your toes, holding for a few seconds, and repeating. Ankle circles are excellent for improving flexibility and range of motion. Point your toes and then flex them, holding each position briefly. Rolling a tennis ball under your foot can help relieve tension and improve circulation. Stretching the calf muscles can also be beneficial for the feet, and this is done by placing your hands on a wall and stepping one foot back while keeping it flat on the floor. Lastly, balance exercises such as calf raises strengthen the muscles in your feet and ankles. Regularly practicing these stretches and exercises can contribute to foot strength, flexibility, and overall health. If you would like more information about specific foot stretches and exercises to promote proper foot health, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Michael Metyk, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Athlete's foot, scientifically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that can affect anyone. It is notorious for causing discomfort, itching, and unsightly skin changes. Athlete’s foot tends to be more prevalent among older adults, especially males. The primary cause is dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrive in warm and humid environments. You can contract athlete's foot by walking barefoot on wet and contaminated floors, especially in public areas like locker rooms, showers, and pools. It also can be transmitted by sharing towels, clothing, or shoes with someone who has the infection. Prolonged use of sweaty, tight shoes that create a moist environment for fungi to flourish also increases the risk of infection. Symptoms of athlete's foot can include red and inflamed skin, persistent itchiness, flaky and scaly skin, thickened skin, and dry feet. In severe cases, tiny red blisters may develop between the toes or on the soles of the feet. The good news is that athlete's foot is generally easy to treat with prescribed antifungal creams or oral medications. If you suspect you have a particularly troublesome case of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help managing this fungal infection.

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 Michael Metyk, DPM from Florida.  Our doctor 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 office located in Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One discomfort that often accompanies pregnancy is swollen ankles, known as edema. Fortunately, there are several ways to minimize the problem. The key to managing swollen ankles during pregnancy is to defy gravity. Sit with your feet elevated to reduce pressure on the lower extremities. While seated, circle your ankles occasionally to encourage blood flow, and avoid standing for extended periods. Sleeping on your left side is believed to be beneficial for your baby and for your circulation. This position alleviates pressure on the inferior vena cava, helping to reduce ankle swelling. Elevating your legs at a gentle angle with pillows can further promote healthy blood flow. Consider investing in compression stockings to prevent blood from pooling in your ankles. Incorporate daily gentle exercises into your routine, such as swimming and walking. These activities help keep your blood flowing optimally, reducing the risk of swollen ankles. If you have concerns about swollen ankles or any other foot-related issues during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and recommended treatment options.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Michael Metyk, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Clubfoot is a congenital foot deformity that affects thousands of newborns worldwide. This condition is characterized by an abnormal positioning of the foot, where it turns inward and downward, making it appear like the sole is turned upward. While the exact cause of clubfoot is still not entirely understood, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors during fetal development. Typically, clubfoot can be detected shortly after birth. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for effective treatment. The goal of treatment is to correct the foot's positioning and allow for normal growth and development. This often involves a series of gentle manipulations, casting, and sometimes minor surgery. With early and appropriate medical care, most children born with clubfoot can lead normal, active lives. Regular follow-ups may be necessary to monitor the foot's growth and function, but the prognosis for those with clubfoot is generally positive. The key is prompt identification and intervention to ensure a healthy and active future for affected children. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can begin the necessary treatment methods.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Michael Metyk, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.