Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. Despite its name, a person does not have to be an athlete to develop it. The fungus grows well in warm, damp places and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. Risk factors include walking barefoot in locker rooms, showers, or swimming-pool areas. Sharing socks or towels with an infected person can also spread the fungus. Tight-fitting, closed-toe shoes and sweaty feet can create conditions that allow the infection to grow. Symptoms include itching, stinging, and burning between the toes or on the soles.

The skin affected by athlete’s foot can crack, peel, or develop itchy blisters. The infection can also spread beyond the original area. Touching or scratching infected skin can transfer the fungus to the hands. The fungus can spread to the toenails, where the infection can become harder to treat. Because several skin problems can look similar, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. A podiatrist can examine the skin closely and determine whether the symptoms are caused by athlete’s foot or another foot condition.

A podiatrist can recommend treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Treatment includes antifungal products that target the fungus and help clear the affected skin. More severe infections can require stronger antifungal medication. A podiatrist can also check for toenail involvement and other complications that could make treatment more difficult. Patients with diabetes or circulation problems can benefit from prompt evaluation because foot infections can create added concerns. Athlete’s foot that persists or keeps returning deserves professional attention. Proper diagnosis helps ensure that treatment targets the actual cause of the symptoms. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . 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 Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain on the top of the foot can feel sharp, dull, or burning. It can appear while walking, running, or standing still. Because many bones, joints, and tendons lie near the upper surface, the source of the pain is not always obvious. Nearby nerves can also be a factor. Shoes tied too tightly can cause pressure, but pain can also indicate an injury or another foot problem. Swelling, tenderness, or redness can offer clues. Pain that starts suddenly, follows an injury, or makes it hard to bear weight deserves prompt attention.

Possible causes include a stress fracture, tendon irritation, or a ganglion cyst. A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone, usually caused by repeated force or a sudden increase in activity. Tendon irritation can develop after running on uneven ground or placing repeated strain on the foot. A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled lump near a joint or tendon. Arthritis can also cause upper-foot pain when joints become worn and inflamed. In younger patients, two foot bones can sometimes grow together, which limits motion and causes stiffness. Direct trauma, wearing poorly fitting shoes, and footwear that lacks proper support can also lead to pain.

A podiatrist can examine the painful area, watch how you stand and walk, and check the foot's range of motion. Imaging can reveal a fracture, joint damage, or an unusual connection between bones. Treatment depends on the cause and can include a brace, custom shoe inserts, or changes in activity. A podiatrist can also drain certain cysts or recommend surgery when a serious problem does not respond to other care. Early diagnosis can keep a minor injury from becoming harder to treat and help you return to daily activities safely. If you have pain on the top of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . 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 Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pronation and supination describe the direction the foot rolls while walking or running. Pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward and weight shifts toward the inside of the foot. Supination occurs when the foot rolls outward and weight shifts toward the outside. A small amount of each motion is part of a normal step. Pronation helps the foot absorb shock after the heel reaches the ground. Supination makes the foot firmer as it pushes the body forward. When either motion becomes excessive, pressure can build in certain areas and affect the way a person moves.

These movement patterns can affect more than the feet. Overpronation can place added strain on the arches, heels, and ankles. It can also contribute to discomfort in the knees. Excess supination reduces the foot’s ability to absorb shock and can increase pressure on the outer edge. This can lead to ankle instability, heel pain, or pain in the ball of the foot. Uneven wear on the inner or outer edges of shoe soles can provide a clue. High arches, flat feet, and differences in leg length can influence foot movement. Injuries and repeated stress can also change a person’s gait.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and study how a patient stands and walks. This gait evaluation shows where pressure builds and whether the ankles or knees move out of alignment. The podiatrist can also check joint motion, muscle strength, and shoe-wear patterns. Imaging tests can identify an injury when the examination raises concern. Treatment focuses on improving balance and reducing harmful pressure. A podiatrist can recommend properly fitted shoes with suitable cushioning or stability. Custom orthotics can guide the feet into a better position and distribute weight more evenly. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to track changes and adjust treatment. If you have foot or ankle pain while walking or running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls at home are a common concern for older adults and can lead to serious injuries, especially involving the feet and ankles. A fall is defined as an unexpected loss of balance that results in landing on the ground or a lower surface. Several causes contribute to falls, including poor lighting, uneven surfaces, and distractions such as reading while walking. Understanding why falls happen can help reduce risk and support safer movement within the home environment.

Symptoms and warning signs that may increase fall risk include unsteady walking, dizziness, muscle weakness, and reduced balance. Risk factors include aging-related changes, vision problems, medications that affect coordination, and lack of physical activity. Limited awareness of surroundings can also play a role, especially when attention is divided between tasks. These factors can make it more difficult to react quickly and maintain stability, increasing the chance of a fall.

Falls can lead to a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including sprains, fractures, bruising, and joint pain. These injuries may affect mobility and make daily activities more challenging. Preventive strategies include improving awareness while walking, avoiding distractions, and maintaining a safe home environment. Mind-body exercises such as tai chi and yoga can improve balance and coordination. Additionally, building muscle strength through regular activity also supports stability and reduces fall risk.

Taking steps to prevent falls can protect overall health and maintain independence. Simple changes, such as improving lighting and focusing on safe movement, can make a meaningful difference. Staying active and aware supports better balance and reduces injury risk. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions and additional guidance on fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.