Early detection is critical when it comes to melanoma of the
foot. This type of cancer is easy to overlook but can have deadly consequences
if allowed to go untreated. When checking for any signs of this disease, be
sure to notice the soles, the area in between the toes, and the skin around or
under the toenails for any freckles or spots that have changed over time. Any
alteration in the border, color, diameter, or elevation of a freckle or spot
should be immediately reported to your podiatrist since those are the main
indicators of melanoma of the foot. Routine self-exams are the keys to ensuring
early identification of this potentially deadly disease.
Blame it on bacteria‒foot odor is a reality for ten to
fifteen percent of the population. Bacteria digest sweat and release a gas that
can produce a foul odor. Although enclosing the feet in shoes can exacerbate
the problem, exposing them during the weather can make the odor even more
obvious.
To eliminate or help reduce foot odor, following a regimen
to conquer the bacteria can help.
- Feet should be washed daily with antibacterial soap and dried thoroughly.
- When socks are worn, they should be of a natural fiber that will absorb any sweat.
- Shoes should be allowed to dry out in between wearing, and insoles should be cleaned using hot, soapy water.
For additional questions please contact:
A
bend in the first joint of a small toe can result in a hammertoe. If addressed
early on, the condition may be alleviated. If not, rigidity will set in, and
even the ball of the foot can become dislocated, causing the toes to point
upwards. Typically, trauma, an injury to the foot, or wearing high-heeled or
ill-fitting shoes can result in the development of hammertoes. Those
individuals with rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can tend to develop
hammertoes. The condition is painful and can result in the development of corns
and calluses as well as swelling and redness of the affected areas. Walking can
become a challenge, and the sufferer can be at a high risk of falling.
For additional questions please contact:
Dr. Kevin McDonald at 704 -786-4482 or visit at http://www.familyfootcare.info/
If
you see thread-like veins close to the surface of the skin on your feet, you
are looking at spider veins, or telangectasias. Weakening of the valves in your
leg veins can cause blood flow to become sluggish and pool, creating spider
veins. Resembling tree branches, they can appear in small or large patches. Heredity,
exposure to the sum, and hormonal changes can trigger the onset of spider veins
in the feet. Added causes are pregnancy, prolonged standing, and a sedentary
lifestyle. Treatments to rid the feet of the clusters include laser therapy,
which can shrink and even eradicate spider veins entirely, and injections of
sodium chloride, referred to as sclerotherapy.
For additional questions please contact:
Dr. Kevin McDonald at 704 -786-4482 or visit at http://www.familyfootcare.info/
