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Cold-related foot injuries, such as frostbite, chilblains, and trench foot, occur when feet are exposed to prolonged cold and damp conditions. Frostbite happens in freezing temperatures, leading to tissue damage as blood flow slows. Symptoms include numbness, discoloration, and potentially blistering. Chilblains, or painful, itchy swelling, develop when skin repeatedly warms up too quickly after cold exposure, causing blood vessels to leak. Trench foot, resulting from prolonged dampness in cold conditions, leads to tissue breakdown, swelling, and pain. These injuries are especially common among outdoor workers, hikers, and individuals without proper cold-weather footwear. Prevention involves wearing insulated, moisture-wicking socks and waterproof boots to keep feet warm and dry. If symptoms develop, it is suggested that you rewarm feet and visit a podiatrist promptly, so that the severity can be assessed and complications avoided.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons people experience heel pain. It develops when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes irritated or inflamed. Many people notice sharp pain in the morning with their first steps, which may ease as the day goes on, but often returns after long periods of standing or activity. Risk factors include wearing unsupportive shoes, spending long hours on hard surfaces, and having flat feet or very high arches. Stretching exercises, wearing proper footwear, and sometimes custom orthotics can help relieve the strain on the plantar fascia. Left untreated, the discomfort can become persistent and interfere with daily activities. If heel pain is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss appropriate treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Brian Shwer, DPM  from Southaven Foot 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

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• 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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Symptoms of tendonitis in the foot often begin with sharp, burning, or aching pain along the affected tendon, especially during movement. Swelling can develop over time, sometimes forming into a tender lump along the tendon. Stiffness in the foot or ankle may limit motion and make walking, climbing stairs, or standing on tiptoes uncomfortable. Discomfort is usually worse with activity and may temporarily ease with rest, only to return when weight is placed back on the foot. Causes of tendonitis in the foot include repetitive strain from activities that overwork the tendons, direct injuries such as an ankle sprain, or friction from shoes that rub against the tendon. Abnormal foot structure, like flat feet or high arches, can also place uneven stress on tendons, increasing the risk of inflammation. A podiatrist can identify which tendon is affected, provide guidance on proper support, and recommend treatment that may include surgery, if necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of tendonitis in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. 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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often beginning between the toes. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments, such as locker rooms, showers, and tight shoes. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes blisters. Risk factors include excessive sweating, wearing damp socks, sharing footwear, or walking barefoot in public areas. While mild treatments can help, recurring or severe cases may need professional care. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, advanced antifungal treatments, and guidance on preventing reinfection. If you notice persistent symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

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 Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot 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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot pain is a serious concern that can develop in individuals with diabetes due to poor circulation and nerve damage known as peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms include burning, numbness, sharp pain, or sensitivity to touch, often starting in the toes or soles of the feet. Visibly, the feet may appear dry, cracked, or discolored, and wounds may heal slowly or go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. Causes include consistently high blood sugar levels damaging the nerves and blood vessels over time. A podiatrist plays an important role in diagnosing diabetic foot conditions by performing a thorough exam, testing circulation and nerve function, and checking for skin changes or ulcers. Treatment may involve specialized footwear, wound care, and education on proper foot hygiene. Early detection and routine care are essential to prevent complications, such as infections or loss of limb. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to protect your foot health and overall well-being.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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