Summer Foot Problems: Home Treatments & Tips from a Podiatrist in The Woodlands, TX
Doctors Inc foot specialists in The Woodlands provide treatment to keep your feet healthy, even after water activities.
Don't let foot problems ruin your summer fun! Spending more time in Galveston or hiking around Houston can lead to foot problems like athlete's foot, ingrown toenails, or plantar warts. These issues can arise due to increased activity, wearing improper shoes, and being exposed to the environment. This article will discuss various summer foot health issues and provide practical solutions to keep you happy and your feet comfortable so you can fully embrace the sunny days and summer vibes.
Experiencing persistent foot pain? Don't let it slow you down. Dr. David Jenson, DPM, FAENS is a foot doctor that specializes in foot, ankle and heel pain treatments.
Visit our experienced podiatrist in The Woodlands, TX, for fast relief. We offer same-day appointments and welcome walk-ins for your convenience. Call us today at 936-251-5470 to schedule an immediate consultation, or easily book online through our website. Get back on your feet quickly with expert care.
Ingrown Toenails and Tight Footwear
Tight footwear and physical injuries, such as stubbing your toe or repetitive trauma, can contribute to painful ingrown toenails. Genetic factors can influence this condition, and improper nail trimming is another common cause. Cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, or cutting too close to the skin can lead to nails growing into the skin. Early signs of ingrown toenails might include discomfort when pressing on the toe or wearing shoes. Ingrown toenails happen when a nail grows into the skin, causing foot pain, swelling, and possibly infection. Symptoms of ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes pus around the affected area. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to severe infections that might spread to the underlying bone, requiring more intensive treatment.
Visit our Texas Foot and Ankle center and see our podiatrist Conroe, TX to get you back on your feet.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails:
Trimming nails straight across without tapering the corners.
Wearing shoes that fit well and provide enough room for the toes.
Keeping feet clean and dry to prevent infections.
If you have an ingrown toenail, soak your feet in warm water several times a day. This will help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical antibiotics can also help. In severe or recurrent cases, a podiatrist in Spring, TX may perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail or the nail bed to prevent recurrence.
Plantar Warts and Communal Areas
Plantar warts are a common summer foot issue, often contracted from walking barefoot in communal areas like pools. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which thrives in warm, moist environments.
Plantar warts are small, grainy growths that appear on the soles of the feet. Tiny black dots may be present, indicating clotted blood vessels. These warts can be painful, especially when walking or standing, as they grow inward because of the pressure from body weight.
Are warts dangerous?
Not cancerous: Foot warts are benign growths and do not develop into cancer.
Painful but not harmful: They can cause discomfort or pain when walking or standing, but they don't lead to serious health complications.
May resolve on their own: In many cases, foot warts disappear without treatment within months or years, especially in children.
Treatment options available: If the warts are painful or persistent, various treatment options are available, including over-the-counter remedies, cryotherapy (freezing), and laser treatment.
Visit Doctors Inc Conroe foot specialist if you are experiencing plantar fasciitis or have gout on top of foot.
Preventive Measures Include:
Wearing protective footwear, like water shoes or flip flops, in communal areas to avoid direct contact with surfaces that may contain the virus.
Keeping your feet clean and dry.
Avoid sharing shoes or socks.
Home treatment options for plantar warts range from over-the-counter solutions or SWIFT Wart therapy in our office. Keeping your feet clean and taking precautions can prevent plantar warts, so you can have a comfortable summer.
Athlete's Foot and Summer Moisture
Athlete's foot is a common condition in the summer, primarily because of increased moisture from sweating. This fungal infection thrives in warm, damp environments, making your feet more susceptible during the hotter months. Public places like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers are familiar sources of this infection.
Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, and stinging sensations between the toes or on the soles of the feet. The skin may become dry and flaky or develop blisters and cracks, leading to discomfort.
If plantar fasciitis stretches are not working or you’re experiencing pain on the balls of your feet, visit our podiatrist in Tomball.
Preventive Measures Include:
Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and thoroughly dry them, especially between the toes.
Wearing moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes to reduce sweating.
Always wear flip-flops or water shoes in communal areas to protect your feet from potential fungal exposure.
Home treatment options for athlete's foot include our athlete’s foot kit or over-the-counter creams, sprays, and powders. Maintaining good foot hygiene is vital to keeping athlete's foot away and enjoying a comfortable, itch-free summer.
Doctor’s Inc. Provides the Care You Deserve
With these simple tips, you can keep your feet healthy and comfortable all summer long. Start today and enjoy the benefits of happy, pain-free feet to embrace the sunny days and warm evenings fully.
Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Visit our online store to shop for top-quality foot care products. For personalized treatment and comprehensive doctor recommendations, book an appointment with our foot and ankle center of North Houston today.
Doctors Inc, formerly Jenson Foot and Ankle is here to help you achieve and maintain optimal foot health, ensuring you have the best summer yet.