Nerve damage following an ankle sprain can cause a variety of symptoms that may persist beyond the initial injury. Radiating pain is a common sign, often extending from the ankle into the foot or lower leg. This discomfort may feel sharp, burning, or tingling. Altered skin sensation, such as numbness, heightened sensitivity, or a pins and needles feeling, can also occur. In more severe cases, foot drop may develop, making it difficult to lift the front part of the foot while walking. Over time, a loss of muscle size can become noticeable due to reduced nerve function and weakened movement. If you have sprained your ankle, and are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail fungus is a condition that causes nails to become discolored, thickened, or even crumble. The infection typically starts as a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail and can spread, leading to a more severe appearance. As the fungus progresses, nails may become brittle, cracked, or distorted, often causing discomfort or pain. The affected area might also have a foul odor. The primary cause of toenail fungus is exposure to warm, moist environments, such as public showers or tight-fitting shoes. Poor circulation, a weakened immune system, and injury to the nail can increase the risk. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus and recommend antifungal medications, laser therapy, or specialized topical treatments to eliminate the infection. In severe cases, they may suggest nail removal. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and effective treatment.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Warped or oddly shaped nails
Yellowish nails
Loose/separated nail
Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, and while treatment often involves specific stretches and wearing proper footwear, certain vitamins and supplements can help manage symptoms and promote healing. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce swelling and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production and tissue repair, supporting the healing of the plantar fascia. Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, helps in the regeneration of damaged tissues and reduces inflammation. Magnesium plays a role in muscle function and can help alleviate tightness in the calf muscles, which can contribute to plantar fasciitis pain. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is another powerful anti-inflammatory that can help reduce pain and swelling in the affected area. When used alongside other treatments, these vitamins and supplements may provide additional relief and support recovery from plantar fasciitis. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Non-supportive shoes
Overpronation
Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe is a deformity where the middle joint of a toe bends downward, resembling a hammer. It often develops due to wearing tight or narrow shoes that force the toes into a bent position. Other causes include muscle imbalances, trauma, arthritis, or genetic predisposition. Conditions like diabetes may also contribute by affecting nerve and muscle function. Symptoms of hammertoe include pain, stiffness, swelling in the affected toe, difficulty straightening it, and the development of corns or calluses from friction against footwear. Over time, the toe may become rigid, limiting movement and causing discomfort during walking or standing. Diagnosis involves a podiatrist examining the toe’s flexibility and alignment. X-rays may be used to assess bone and joint changes. If you think you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to ensure an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent complications.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Painful and/or difficult toe movement
Swelling
Joint stiffness
Calluses/Corns
Physical deformity
Risk Factors
Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, caused by the tip of the toe leaning toward the second toe. This condition often results in pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the joint. Over time, bunions can make walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable, especially if the bump rubs against the inside of the shoe. The main cause of bunions is genetics, but they can also develop due to wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, arthritis, or abnormal foot mechanics. The pressure on the big toe joint leads to misalignment and the growth of the bony bump. Treatment options for bunions include wearing wider shoes, using bunion pads, and doing foot exercises to improve flexibility. In more severe cases, a podiatrist might recommend custom orthotics or even surgery to correct the deformity. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. This condition is caused by a type of fungus known as dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments. The infection is often contracted in places like public showers, swimming pools, or gyms, where the fungus can spread easily. Athlete's foot is generally noticeable as red, scaly patches of skin that may crack, peel, or itch. In some cases, blisters may form, causing further discomfort. The infection can also lead to a burning or stinging sensation, particularly when the feet come into contact with certain fabrics or shoes. Athlete's foot is highly contagious, spreading through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces that have come into contact with the fungus. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this ailment, which often includes prescribed medication.
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 Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Blisters on the toes are commonly caused by friction, often from wearing tight shoes or ill-fitting footwear. This constant rubbing irritates the skin, causing it to form a protective layer of fluid beneath the surface. Blisters can also result from burns, infections, or allergic reactions. Among the most common types of blisters found on the toes are vesicles, blood blisters, and pustules. Vesicles are small, clear fluid-filled blisters that develop from minor friction or irritation. Blood blisters occur when blood vessels are damaged due to intense pressure, resulting in a dark red or purple appearance. Pustules are filled with pus and often form due to bacterial infections or inflammatory skin conditions. Regardless of the type, it is important to avoid popping blisters, as this can lead to infection. If you have a blister anywhere on your foot that appears infected, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer safe and sterile treatment, in addition to prevention techniques.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
