Blisters are fluid-filled pockets that typically form in the skin's upper layers after injury, commonly on feet. The fluid cushions the damaged area, aiding healing. Most blisters contain clear serum and heal naturally in three to seven days without medical intervention. Bursting them should be avoided to prevent infection or delays in healing. If they burst, allow drainage and cover with a sterile dressing. Blisters stem from various causes, including friction, heat, chemical contact, or medical conditions, like chickenpox. Preventing blisters involves wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes, keeping feet dry with thicker socks or talcum powder, and applying sunscreen. If you have a foot blister that appears infected, is painful, or is recurring, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

If you are a runner who has been plagued by toe blisters, toe socks may be the solution. Toe socks, those unique glove like counterparts to traditional socks, are designed for various sports, including running and hiking. Wearing toe socks can reduce friction and wick moisture from the toes. They also provide space for the toes to splay, which can improve your foot's muscle engagement while running. Additionally, wearing toe socks may even lower the risk of repetitive stress injuries. Toe socks are surprisingly comfortable, despite their unusual appearance. Wearing toe socks while running has a few less desirable traits. They take up more room in your shoes due to the separation of each toe, which may call for different shoe sizing and fit. Putting on toe socks can be a bit time consuming, and the effort required to work each toe into its individual pouch may feel like an inconvenience. In addition, toe socks for running are more costly than regular running socks. This is because they require more fabric and have a more intricate design. Despite this, they may be worth the investment to prevent blisters, discomfort, and other injuries. For more information on the benefits or problems with wearing toe socks, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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

Cuboid syndrome, a lesser-known foot ailment, can cause significant discomfort and compromise daily activities. This condition occurs when the cuboid bone, located on the outer side of the foot, becomes misaligned, often due to excessive strain or trauma. Symptoms typically manifest as sharp pain on the outside side of the foot, often worsened during performing weight-bearing activities. Pain may radiate to the toes or even the ankle. Cuboid syndrome may cause walking and standing to become challenging, impacting overall mobility. Fortunately, effective treatment options exist. Manual manipulation by a podiatrist can realign the cuboid bone, offering quick relief. Additionally, rest, compression, and elevation can alleviate any inflammation and discomfort. Wearing custom orthotics may aid in maintaining proper foot mechanics, possibly preventing recurrence. Being aware of the symptoms and seeking timely treatment ensures a smoother road to recovery from cuboid syndrome. If you have pain in the lateral part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

People who stand or walk for the majority of the day are generally aware of what type of shoes they wear and how well they fit. Many patients will try on multiple pairs of shoes before they find a pair that fits their feet perfectly. It is beneficial to have an accurate foot measurement before purchasing shoes. This can be done by tracing the width and length of the foot on a piece of paper, followed by using a conversion table that can pinpoint the right size. Many stores are equipped with a Brannock device, which can accurately measure the foot. Additionally, it can help to wear the socks that will be worn with the new shoes, and these can range from dress socks to athletic socks. The best time of day to purchase shoes is in the evening when the feet are at their largest. This often ensures a proper fit when the feet become swollen after a long day. If you would like more information about how to determine your right shoe size, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the appropriate knowledge.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

New parents ought to be aware of signs of poor circulation in infants, as this condition can negatively impact the health of your infant. Importantly, poor circulation might be normal for a few hours following birth, however, persistent poor circulation can require medical attention. The feet can play an important role in helping you identify poor circulation in an infant. For example, if the feet feel cold to the touch, this might be indicative of a lack of sufficient blood circulation. The hands might feel cold as well. Often, the feet can give us important signals that we should not ignore. If you are a new parent or are expecting to be, see a podiatrist today to learn about the many ways in which you can care for your infant’s feet. This foot specialist will be able to help you develop a plan and teach you what signs to look for.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

A stress fracture is an injury that gradually develops. It is a common ailment among runners and can happen from overuse. The repetitive motion of running may cause the bones to weaken from the constant pounding on the running surface, causing the foot to become weak. Some of the symptoms that are associated with a stress fracture can consist of an aching pain in the affected area and can occur when training begins or intensity increases. The pain may also be present when the foot is rested, and after appropriate measures are taken for relief. It is beneficial to practice warm-up and cool-down techniques before and after running, in addition to slowly increasing speed and mileage. A stress fracture may be treated by temporarily stopping the activity that caused the condition, and wearing a protective boot may aid in mobility. If you have pain in your foot, and think you may have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat the problem.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

The strong band of tissue that runs from the calf muscles to the heel bone is known as the Achilles tendon. When this tendon is overused, which is frequent among runners, dancers, and other athletes, it can become inflamed and extremely painful. This condition is called Achilles tendinopathy. The top cause of Achilles tendinopathy is overuse, which tears or stretches the tendon and causes inflammation. Other causes include certain types of arthritis, flat feet, and overpronation. In addition, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, being overweight, and taking certain antibiotics may increase the likelihood of developing Achilles tendinopathy. There are a number of treatments available for Achilles tendinopathy, but healing time depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, surgery is required. There are several ways to prevent tendinopathy, including stretching exercises and warmup and cool-down routines. Wearing proper footwear is another way to help prevent this injury. For more information, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

People who enjoy running or jogging may be concerned if a bunion develops.  A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe and is uncomfortable while wearing shoes. As the bunion grows, it may alter the foot structure, and cause the other toes to shift toward each other. A bunion is considered to be a deformity and may cause pain and discomfort. Runners may have to alter their gait to accommodate the bunion, and medical attention is often sought so their running or jogging routine may resume to normal. A common cause of bunions can come from wearing shoes that do not have ample room in the toe area. High heels fit into this category, which may cause the toes to squeeze together. It may also happen from genetic reasons, which may give people fair warning to wisely choose shoes that fit correctly. Some patients have found temporary relief for mild bunions by wearing a protective covering over it. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment methods, which may include surgery for permanent removal. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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