Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage linked to prolonged blood sugar changes, and the feet are often affected first. Early signs may be easy to ignore, such as tingling, burning, pins-and-needles sensations, or unusual numbness in the toes. Some people feel sharp, shooting pain, while others notice their feet seem less sensitive to heat, cold, or minor injuries. This loss of feeling can be especially concerning because cuts, blisters, or pressure spots may go unnoticed, and worsen over time. Muscle weakness in the feet can also change the way a person walks, leading to balance problems or foot shape changes. Because these symptoms may develop gradually, many people do not realize nerve damage is progressing. Early evaluation can help identify the problem and reduce the risk of serious complications. If you have unusual foot symptoms and diabetes, 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 Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. 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 offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, particularly between the toes. This condition, also known as tinea pedis, develops when fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, like sweaty shoes and locker rooms. It is extremely contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces. Athlete’s foot can affect anyone, not just athletes, and may become chronic if left untreated. Understanding this condition is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing the spread of infection to other areas of the body.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot often begin with itching, burning, and stinging sensations between the toes. The skin may appear red, scaly, or cracked, and in some cases, peeling or flaking may occur. Some individuals develop small blisters that can be painful and may lead to further skin breakdown. As the infection progresses, the affected area may become dry and thickened. In more severe cases, the infection can spread to the soles or toenails. This can cause further discomfort and complications that require prompt attention.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing athlete’s foot. Wearing tight, non-breathable footwear creates a warm environment where fungi can grow easily. Walking barefoot in public places like pools, gyms, and locker rooms also raises the risk of exposure. Excessive sweating, poor foot hygiene, and not changing socks regularly contribute to moisture buildup. People with a weakened immune system or underlying health condition may be more susceptible. Identifying these risk factors can help guide prevention and reduce recurrence.

The primary cause of athletes' feet is exposure to dermatophyte fungi that invade the outer layer of skin. These organisms thrive in damp conditions and spread through contaminated surfaces or personal items. Preventive care includes keeping feet clean and dry, wearing moisture wicking socks, and choosing properly fitted shoes that allow ventilation. Avoiding shared footwear and practicing good foot hygiene are also important. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot,  it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, 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 Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. 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 offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tennis places heavy stress on the feet and ankles because the game requires quick turns, sudden stops, and fast side-to-side movement. Common injuries include ankle sprains, heel pain, stress fractures, and Achilles tendon injuries. Hard courts place repeated pressure on the joints and bones of the feet, while slippery courts increase the risk of twisting an ankle. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can also lead to pain and instability. A podiatrist can diagnose these injuries with a physical exam and imaging tests or X-rays. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and reduce pressure on painful areas. Bracing or wearing a walking boot can help protect injured tendons and bones while they heal. Stretching exercises and strengthening programs can improve balance and ankle stability. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair damaged tissue or fractures. If you have foot or ankle pain after playing tennis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Franklin Harry, DPM of Best Foot Forward. Our doctor 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 Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Itchy feet can be more than a minor annoyance and signal an underlying skin condition. One common cause is athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that thrives in warm and damp environments, and leads to peeling skin and intense itching. Dry skin may also cause irritation, especially during colder months. Contact dermatitis can occur when the skin reacts to certain soaps, fabrics, or chemicals, leading to redness and discomfort. Chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis may create patches of thickened, inflamed skin that itch persistently. Risk factors include sweating, poor ventilation in footwear, and sensitive skin. A podiatrist can diagnose the source, perform testing if needed, and provide targeted treatments to reduce symptoms and prevent spread or recurrence. If your feet have become itchy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. 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 offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.