Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. A fungus is a tiny living organism that grows best in warm, damp environments. The infection can spread to other parts of the foot, and, in some cases, to the toenails. Symptoms include itching, burning, and peeling skin. Some people also develop redness, cracking, or small blisters. The skin can become sore and uncomfortable while walking, especially when the infection worsens. Because several skin conditions have similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist carefully examines the affected skin and determines whether another condition is causing the problem. In some cases, a small skin sample is examined to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Athlete's foot spreads through direct contact with the fungus or by touching contaminated surfaces. Places like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool areas can increase the chance of exposure. The infection is also more likely to develop when feet remain warm and moist for long periods. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can increase pressure on irritated skin, making walking more uncomfortable, although these shoes do not cause the infection itself. Without proper treatment, athlete's foot can spread to other areas of the foot or lead to bacterial infections. A bacterial infection develops when harmful bacteria enter cracked skin, causing increased redness, swelling, and pain.

A podiatrist provides treatment based on the severity and location of the infection. Care includes confirming the diagnosis, prescribing medications to eliminate the fungus, and monitoring the skin as it heals. If the infection has spread to the toenails or becomes persistent, additional treatment helps prevent further damage. Prompt care also lowers the risk of complications and reduces the chance of the infection returning. Professional podiatric treatment helps restore healthy skin and allows people to return to normal daily activities with greater comfort and confidence. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment tips, 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 one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors 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 Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Aging can significantly impact foot health by changing the structure, strength, and resilience of the feet. Over time, the supportive tissues weaken, and natural shock absorption decreases, leading to increased stress on bones and joints. This process can contribute to common conditions such as fallen arches, bunions, corns, and cracked heels. These issues are not only cosmetic but can also affect balance, walking ability, and overall comfort, making early recognition and management important.

Common symptoms associated with aging foot problems include persistent discomfort, visible deformities, thickened skin, and dryness. Fallen arches may result in foot fatigue and altered walking patterns. Bunions can cause pressure and irritation, especially when wearing tight shoes. Corns often develop in areas of repeated friction, leading to localized pain. Cracked heels may become deep and sensitive, sometimes leading to infection if not properly cared for. These symptoms can progress if left untreated and may limit mobility.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to these conditions. Years of repetitive use can weaken ligaments and alter foot alignment. Unsupportive or il- fitting footwear can accelerate structural changes. Weight gain increases pressure on the feet, while decreased circulation and skin elasticity make the skin more prone to dryness and cracking. Medical conditions such as arthritis can further impact joint health and mobility. These combined factors create an environment where foot problems are more likely to develop with age.

In summary, aging-related foot conditions are common but manageable with proper care and awareness. Addressing symptoms early and maintaining good foot health habits can help prevent complications and improve quality of life. If you or an elderly person in your care notice changes in the feet or have ongoing discomfort, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop as a protective response to repeated friction and pressure, often caused by mechanical stress from wearing poorly fitting shoes. Calluses are usually larger, flatter, and form on weight-bearing areas. Corns are smaller, deeper, and can cause significant pain and inflammation. Hard corns develop on the tops of toes or pressure points, and feel dense, while soft corns form between toes where moisture keeps them pliable and tender. Risk factors include improper footwear, foot deformities, and prolonged standing. A podiatrist can safely reduce thickened skin, relieve discomfort, and recommend proper footwear. If you have developed a corn that has become painful, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pitting edema is a type of swelling in the ankles or feet where pressing on the skin leaves a temporary indentation. This happens when extra fluid collects in the tissues. It may be linked to circulation problems, vein conditions, heart or kidney concerns, certain medications, or other medical issues. Some people notice tight shoes or swelling that worsens as the day goes on. Diagnosis starts with a physical examination, where a provider checks the amount of swelling and how long the indentation remains after pressure is applied. A podiatrist may also review medical history, symptoms, circulation, and skin changes, and may recommend additional testing when needed to help identify the cause. Because swelling can signal an underlying health concern, proper evaluation matters. If you have ongoing swelling in your feet or ankles, especially with discomfort or skin changes, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.