Blisters that develop on the feet can make it difficult to walk and complete daily activities. When the skin is irritated, the body’s natural healing response is to protect the damaged area by forming a small bubble over it that is filled with fluid. As new skin develops, the blister will gradually drain, and is no longer needed. Blisters generally develop from excess friction that is caused by wearing shoes or socks that do not fit correctly. Additional reasons why they can form can come from existing medical conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Effective prevention techniques can include wearing comfortable shoes, checking the feet for signs of rubbing, and removing the shoes if discomfort is felt. If you would like additional information about how to treat and prevent blisters, please consult with a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Derek Smith, DPM of Oklahoma. 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 offices located in Ponca City, and Stillwater, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cycling can put repeated pressure on the feet, especially during long rides or when equipment does not fit properly. One common cause of foot pain from cycling is wearing tight shoes that squeeze the toes and reduce circulation. Thick socks or poorly fitted shoe inserts can also create extra pressure inside the shoe. Another cause is poor cleat placement on the pedals. Cleats placed too far forward can increase pressure on the ball of the foot. This can force the small foot muscles to work harder while pedaling. Some cyclists also develop pain along the outer side of the foot near the little toe. This may be the result of the natural shape and position of the forefoot. Symptoms include soreness, burning, or tingling sensations after riding. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, evaluate cycling mechanics, and prescribe custom orthotics designed for cycling. If you have foot pain after cycling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Ponca City, and Stillwater, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, which forms crystals in the joints. Diet plays a role, as foods such as red meat, sugary drinks, and alcohol can increase uric acid levels. Risk factors include genetics, being overweight, and certain medications. Symptoms include sudden intense pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness. The big toe is commonly affected because it experiences pressure and tends to be cooler, allowing crystals to form more easily. Flare-ups can limit movement and disrupt daily life. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms, provide treatment, and offer guidance on prevention. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Ponca City, and Stillwater, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can affect far more than just walking. When your feet hurt, everyday activities like shopping, exercising, working, or even standing for short periods of time can become frustrating and exhausting. Ongoing discomfort may lead people to avoid movement, which can affect physical health, independence, and overall mood. Foot pain may develop from conditions such as arthritis, nerve problems, injuries, and tendon issues, in addition to poor foot mechanics, or chronic pressure points. Because the feet support the entire body, even minor problems can create significant limitations, over time. A podiatrist can identify the cause of the pain through examination, imaging, and gait evaluation, then create a treatment plan aimed at improving comfort and function. Addressing foot pain early may help restore mobility and make daily life easier and more enjoyable. If you have persistent foot pain that affects your routine, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Derek Smith, DPM from Oklahoma. 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 Ponca City, and Stillwater, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.