Foot pain can have a major effect on mobility and quality of life. Many people experience pain in the toes, ball of the foot, arch, or heel. When the feet hurt, simple activities become more difficult. Standing for long periods of time can be uncomfortable. Walking from place to place can require extra effort. Some people begin to change the way they move to avoid pain. This can place added stress on other parts of the body. Foot pain affects adults of all ages, but it is especially concerning for older adults because it can reduce independence and make daily tasks harder to complete. A podiatrist can determine the source of foot pain and recommend treatment that supports improved movement and comfort.

Mobility problems linked to foot pain can affect balance, stability, and confidence. People with painful feet sometimes walk more slowly or take shorter steps. Others avoid certain activities because movement causes discomfort. Foot pain can make standing more difficult. It can also increase the risk of losing balance. This is especially important for older adults, who face a greater risk of falls. Pain in the feet can result from several conditions. These include plantar fasciitis, which is irritation of a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. Arthritis, which causes joint inflammation, is another cause. Nerve-related problems can also contribute to discomfort. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation to identify the exact cause of symptoms.

Many people delay seeking care for foot pain, even when it affects daily activities. As a result, mobility problems can continue and become more disruptive. A podiatrist can examine the feet, assess walking patterns, and develop a treatment plan. Treatment can reduce pain, improve balance, and help restore mobility. Early attention to foot pain can make it easier to stay active and maintain independence. If you have foot pain that is affecting mobility or balance, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal skin infection that often causes itching, redness, peeling, and irritation, usually between the toes or along the sole. When the skin becomes severely damaged, bacteria can enter through these openings and cause an additional infection. This may lead to increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, drainage, or worsening skin breakdown. What begins as a surface skin problem can become more serious, if not properly treated. A podiatrist can determine whether the issue involves a fungal infection alone or a combination of problems that require different treatment approaches. Care may include addressing the infection, protecting damaged skin, reducing moisture buildup, and identifying factors that contributed to the condition. Early treatment helps prevent worsening symptoms and complications. If you have athlete’s foot that is becoming painful, spreading, or showing signs of infection, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment solutions.

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 Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center.  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 offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus is a common infection that can cause thickening, discoloration, brittleness, crumbling, and changes in nail shape, over time. Because several nail conditions can look similar, proper diagnosis is important before treatment begins. A podiatrist may recommend topical medications for milder cases, although these often require consistent use over several months. Oral prescription treatment may be considered for more stubborn infections, particularly when deeper nail involvement is present. In some situations, trimming or thinning the nail can improve comfort and help treatments work more effectively. Severely damaged nails may require partial or complete removal in select cases. A podiatrist will also look for contributing factors such as moisture exposure, shoe fit, circulation concerns, or underlying medical conditions that increase recurrence risk. If your toenails are becoming thick, discolored, or painful, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss appropriate treatment options.

For more information about treatment, contact Robert Dunne, DPM of Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of urate crystals in the joints. These crystals form when uric acid levels in the body become elevated, leading to sudden and painful flare-ups. The big toe is commonly affected because of stress and lower temperature in the joint. Risk factors include male gender, alcohol intake, certain diets, and underlying health conditions. Symptoms include severe pain in the big toe, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the foot. The discomfort can appear quickly and limit movement. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms, provide guidance on lifestyle changes, and recommend treatments to reduce inflammation. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer relief and management tips for this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Robert Dunne, DPM from Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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