Plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet and are caused by a viral infection in the outer skin layer. They often develop in areas of pressure, such as the heel or ball of the foot, and may feel like stepping on a small stone. These warts can spread through skin contact or from walking barefoot on damp surfaces like gym floors or locker rooms. While some may go away on their own, others can grow, multiply, or cause discomfort with walking. Avoid picking at the area to prevent spreading the virus, and keep the foot clean and dry. For persistent or painful warts, or, if walking becomes difficult, seeing a podiatrist can help avoid further issues. If a plantar wart is not improving with home care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot and ankle pain during multi-day bike rides is common and can affect performance and enjoyment. One issue is hot foot, or burning pain and numbness in the ball of the foot caused by pressure on nerves from wearing tight shoes or long hours of pedaling. Pain along the outside edge of the foot may result from improper foot positioning or cleat alignment. Achilles tendonitis, marked by pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle, often stems from overuse or poor bike fit. A podiatrist can assess biomechanical problems, recommend footwear, and offer custom orthotics to relieve pain. For lasting relief and injury prevention, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot wounds often require specialized attention, but clinical expertise alone is not always enough. The choices patients make about their care matter. From the type of dressings used to how often visits are scheduled, each decision can affect comfort, confidence, and healing. When patients are involved in the planning of their treatment, they are more likely to follow through with care and speak up about concerns. This creates a stronger partnership with the provider and often leads to better outcomes. Respecting personal routines, cultural beliefs, and lifestyle needs helps tailor care that fits into daily life rather than disrupting it. Listening to patient preferences is not just courteous. It is a critical step in treating wounds that are often slow to heal. To create a care plan that truly works, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who understands the importance of patient input at every stage.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition often affects the big toe and is typically caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury. Other factors, such as fungal infections or having naturally curved nails, can also contribute to the problem. Symptoms include sharp pain at the edge of the nail, tenderness, swelling, and, in some cases, pus or drainage if an infection develops. The pain may worsen when wearing shoes or walking, making daily activities uncomfortable. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a physical exam. Treatment may involve gently lifting the nail, or, if necessary, removing part of the nail to relieve pressure. If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed. For recurring cases, a minor procedure to permanently remove the nail or nail root might be recommended. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.