Corns on the feet, although not always a serious condition, can still cause patients discomfort and annoyance because of their unsightly look. Corns are essentially defined as tough or hardened areas of the skin on the feet that develop in response to friction and pressure. Many individuals with corns on the feet are interested to know how salicylic acid can be used to treat this condition. Interestingly, this acid is known as a keratolytic, and so a medical professional may use it to dissolve the substances that compose the corn on the feet. Specifically, the salicylic acid can be used to dissolve proteins that make up the corn. It is important to note that salicylic acid is made in a variety of concentrations that will all have different effects on the removal of the corn. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to learn more about this and to treat your corns. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a prevalent fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often between the toes. This condition can strike anyone, not just athletes, and is primarily caused by dermatophyte fungi. Athlete's foot thrives in warm, moist environments, making it a common occurrence in areas like locker rooms, swimming pools, and shared showers. The symptoms of athlete's foot typically include itching, burning, and stinging sensations on the affected skin. As the infection progresses, it may lead to peeling, redness, and the development of blisters or cracked skin. In severe cases, the condition can spread to other parts of the foot, including the toenails. Fortunately, athlete's foot is usually easily treatable by visiting a podiatrist who can offer you prescribed medication for relief. If you have developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor who can guide you toward effective prevention methods.

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 Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . 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 Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Seed corns, also known as porokeratotic eccrine ostial and dermal duct nevus, are small, painful, and often frustrating foot conditions. These minuscule, discreet calluses typically appear on the soles of the feet and can be mistaken for small plantar warts due to their size and appearance. Unlike warts, seed corns are usually found in clusters and are more likely to cause discomfort when walking or standing. The name seed corn is derived from their resemblance to tiny seeds, which can make them difficult to detect and remove effectively. While their exact cause is not entirely clear, factors consisting of friction, pressure, or certain types of shoes may contribute to their development. Fortunately, proper foot care, gentle exfoliation, and the use of moisturizing creams can help manage these bothersome seed corns, providing relief and comfort to those affected. If you have developed seed corns, seeking advice from a podiatrist is suggested for appropriate treatment and long-term prevention.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Flat feet can be easily recognized by the absence of an arch space while standing on the feet. Instead, the foot lies flat on the floor. Flat feet can lead to pain across the arch and heel, while ill-fitting shoes or exercising on hard surfaces may only make it worse. Because having flat feet can affect your movement, the chances of developing knee and hip pain can increase. Athletes with flat feet are at a higher risk of plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and knee injuries. Fortunately, people with flat feet who are experiencing some type of pain can wear an orthotic device to correct the deficiency and improve their gait. A podiatrist can examine the feet to determine the severity of this condition and also test the way you walk to determine what type of proper orthotic device is right for you. This foot doctor will make a mold of your feet that perfectly mirrors their shape and builds an insole specifically for you. For more information on options to deal with flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

People who fall or who have a fear of falling may benefit from having regular physical examinations done. This can help monitor existing medicines, as dosages may need to be adjusted as the body changes. It can also help to have regular eye examinations performed that can manage eyeglass prescriptions. Many elderly patients like to exercise and can feel their bodies becoming stronger. Exercising is an important fall prevention technique, and it may also help to increase balance. Many seniors enjoy practicing Tai Chi, which can make their legs stronger. Vitamin D may be added to the diet which may help improve bone, muscle, and nerve health. Additionally, there are methods that can be implemented in the home that can make it safer. These can include installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area and improving lighting in the living area. Falling can impact the feet, and can cause havoc in completing daily activities. If you would like to learn more about fall prevention techniques, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

As an individual progresses into their elderly years, it becomes increasingly important for them to take extra care of their feet. This is because the feet can become more susceptible to foot conditions with age. One important part of maintaining foot health is wearing shoes that fit properly. When an elderly individual goes shoe shopping, there are several things they may consider doing to select the best fitting shoe. For example, as an individual gets older, it can be more difficult to bend over and put on shoes. So a senior may consider shopping for shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Additionally, since older people may slip and fall, shopping for shoes which have grips can be beneficial. If you are a senior or are caring for one, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today for more information.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

One of the things that frightens many runners is to suffer a stress fracture. It is defined as a hairline crack that happens from repeated stress on the bone. Increasing mileage and distance too quickly can result in a stress fracture, in addition to frequently running for several miles at a time. Patients may notice that an existing stress fracture can begin with a dull pain, and the foot may feel weak. If prompt medical attention is not sought, the pain can become sharp, and walking on it can be difficult. A stress fracture may be accompanied by swelling, and an X-ray is often taken to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment from this foot condition is often started by temporarily eliminating running, and using crutches. Wearing a walking boot may help to keep the weight off of the foot. If you feel that you may have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Heel pain can be an annoyance for a variety of patients for many different reasons. For example, heel pain may be linked to a condition known as plantar fasciitis. Alternatively, heel pain could be caused by an individual’s obesity and the extent to which their excess weight is putting added pressure on the feet. However, heel pain might also be a side effect of certain cancer treatments. Sometimes, when an individual with cancer receives treatment, heel pain can result. The reason for this is that some treatments lead to a loss of bone density and even muscle wasting. As a result, conditions such as plantar fasciitis can become more likely and ultimately cause heel pain. If you are someone that is receiving cancer treatment and you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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