Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, most often between the toes, where moisture collects. It occurs when fungus grows in warm, damp environments and spreads through shared surfaces and footwear. Symptoms may include itching, redness, scaling, burning, cracked skin, peeling, and possibly odor. Risk factors include excessive sweating, wearing tight shoes, poor air circulation, public showers, weakened immunity, and prolonged moisture exposure. Causes involve dermatophyte fungi that thrive on moist skin and fabrics. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition accurately, provide medical treatments, recommend proper hygiene, guide footwear choices, and help prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include 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 Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout often announces itself with sudden, intense pain in a joint, most commonly the big toe. The affected area may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch, and even the light pressure of a sock or sheet can feel unbearable. Some individuals notice stiffness or lingering tenderness after the most severe discomfort eases. These episodes can appear without warning and may come and go over time. Because gout is linked to elevated uric acid levels, flare ups can become more frequent if the underlying issue is not addressed. Being aware of these signs allows for earlier care and helps prevent long-term joint damage. If you experience repeated bouts of sharp joint pain or swelling in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with 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 Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. 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 office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot infections are a frequent concern for people living with diabetes because high blood sugar can weaken the skin, slow the healing process, and reduce sensation in the feet. Small cuts, blisters, or cracks may go unnoticed and can quickly become irritated or swollen. Infections often show up as redness, warmth, increasing pain, or drainage, and the skin may feel firmer or appear darker surrounding the affected area. Treatment focuses on identifying the source, cleaning the area carefully, and protecting the skin from further pressure or friction. Medications may be needed to control bacteria, and specialized dressings can support healing. A podiatrist will also evaluate circulation, nerve health, and any structural issues that could contribute to repeated infections. Early care is essential because infections can worsen quickly in the presence of diabetes. If you have diabetes and notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can develop from many sources, especially when the structures of the feet are placed under long-term stress. Heel and arch pain often stems from strain on the plantar fascia, while irritation of the Achilles tendon can affect the back of the ankle. Metatarsalgia, or pain under the ball of the foot, is usually caused by excess pressure from shoes with inadequate support, high heels, or conditions that strain the ligaments in this area. Nerve problems like Morton’s neuroma can create burning or tingling near the toes, and arthritis can affect the many joints of the feet, leading to stiffness and swelling. Bunions and hammertoes may develop when the toes are pushed out of alignment by tight or narrow shoes. A podiatrist can provide a diagnosis and recommend treatment that addresses the source of the problem. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.