Blisters are a common foot issue caused by various factors related to shoes. One primary cause is inadequate support, as shoes that lack proper cushioning or arch support can lead to friction and pressure points, increasing the risk of blisters. New shoes, especially those not fully broken in, often cause blisters due to stiffness and tightness. Stiff materials like rigid leather or synthetic fabrics, can irritate the skin and create friction. High heels are another culprit as they shift the foot's weight unevenly, leading to pressure on certain areas of the foot resulting in blisters. Seams inside shoes can also cause friction when they rub against the skin. Additionally, physical activity that involves excessive movement or sweating can cause blister formation. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer treatment methods and prevent them from becoming infected.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Neuropathy in the feet occurs when the nerves in the feet are damaged, leading to a variety of symptoms. Common signs include numbness, tingling, a burning sensation, and sharp pain in the feet. People with neuropathy may also experience weakness, difficulty walking, and a lack of coordination due to reduced sensation. To find relief, regular walking can help improve circulation and strengthen the feet, which may reduce symptoms. Soaking the feet in warm water with Epsom salt can soothe discomfort and ease muscle tension. Additionally, reducing alcohol consumption is helpful, as excessive drinking can worsen nerve damage and increase pain. Managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes, through proper care and medication, can also significantly help control neuropathy symptoms. If you are suffering from neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, often affects the feet, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the toes, ankles, and heels. Psoriatic arthritis can cause inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bones, commonly affecting the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia. It also may result in dactylitis, or sausage toes, which involves swelling of the entire toe that makes walking and wearing shoes painful. Nail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed, are also common with PsA. It also can lead to joint damage and deformities if left untreated, causing significant limitations in mobility. A podiatrist can provide valuable care by addressing symptoms with treatments aimed at reducing pain and inflammation. Other measures include prescribing orthotics to support affected areas and suggesting ways to help manage the condition effectively. Regular care from a podiatrist can improve comfort, prevent further joint damage, and enhance mobility. If you have foot problems related to psoriatic arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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