A rash on the foot can have a variety of causes. It may be a form of eczema, which is usually very itchy. It also may be an allergic reaction to something with which your feet have come into contact, such as materials in your shoe or poison ivy. Another common reason for a foot rash is athlete’s foot,

Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition which results in a bluish-white discoloration of fingers and toes, often as a result of exposure to cold. Stress, smoking, and certain medications may trigger or worsen symptoms. The color change, which occurs from spasms in small blood vessels, becomes red and then

An uncontrolled urge to move one’s legs is referred to as "restless legs." This can happen while trying to sleep, while traveling, or any time the legs are at rest. There is no known test to diagnose the problem; instead, the foot and ankle surgeon considers the individual’s history to determine

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease in which certain cells of the immune system malfunction and attack healthy joints. RA causes inflammation in the lining (synovium) of joints, most often the joints of the hands and feet. The signs of inflammation can include pain,

Rugby is hard on the feet and ankles! Injuries can occur from running and cutting, direct trauma during tackling, and during the scrum. Rugby players should be aware of the following risks: Inversion ankle sprains can damage the ankle ligaments, and can also be associated with peroneal tendon

Whether an athlete is a recreational, competitive, or elite runner, foot and ankle health is essential for optimal performance. Runners are susceptible to overuse injuries including heel pain (plantar fasciitis), Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, neuromas, capsulitis of the second toe, stress

What is a Sesamoid? A sesamoid is a bone embedded in a tendon. Sesamoids are found in several joints in the body. In the normal foot, the sesamoids are two pea-shaped bones located in the ball of the foot, beneath the big toe joint.   Acting as a pulley for tendons, the sesamoids help the big

“Shin splints” is a term to describe pain and swelling in the front of the lower legs. The pain usually appears after and is aggravated by repetitive activities such as running or walking. Contributing causes are flat feet, calf tightness, improper training techniques, worn out or improper shoes/sneakers,

Arch supports and shoe inserts are devices that are placed inside of shoes to support and align the foot and lower extremities (knees, hips, and lower back), thus preventing the progression of a foot deformity, improving the function of the foot, and diminishing or eliminating pain. These devices can

“Skin cancer” is a general term for three distinct cancers that can appear on the foot: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.   Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, appears on sun-exposed areas as a smooth, raised bump or a sore that is not healing.

A smelly foot is a common condition in children and adults who wear shoes on a daily basis. People with smelly feet may also suffer from sweaty feet. Most people with this condition will have sweaty and smelly feet year round, not just in the hot summer months. The odor is produced by bacteria and/or

Soccer is hard on the feet! Injuries to the foot and ankle can occur from running and side to side cutting, sliding or tackling, and from striking the ball or another player with the foot. Soccer players should be aware of the following risks: Inversion ankle sprains can damage the ankle ligaments,

What is a Soft Tissue Biopsy? A soft tissue biopsy is the removal and microscopic examination of a small sample of soft tissue for diagnostic purposes. “Soft tissue” includes the skin, fat, muscle, and tendons that surround, connect, or support other tissues or organs.   Soft tissue biopsies

Your feet and ankles take a beating when you’re playing softball. Softball players should be aware of the following risks: Ankle sprains may occur while running, fielding balls, stepping on or sliding into bases. Sprains should be evaluated by a foot and ankle surgeon to determine the extent

Staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria that can be spread through the skin or open wound contact and is known to cause serious illness and infection if contracted. In recent years, certain types of staph bacteria, such as drug-resistant MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), have become

Stress fractures are tiny, hairline breaks that can occur in the bones of the foot. They can be caused by overtraining or overuse, improper training habits or surfaces, improper shoes, flatfoot or other foot deformities, and even osteoporosis. These tiny breaks in the bones of the feet can lead to a