Items filtered by date: April 2025

Tuesday, 15 April 2025 00:00

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are growths that appear on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They often develop in areas of pressure, like the heel or ball of the foot, and can sometimes combine to form a condition known as mosaic warts. Mosaic warts are clusters of multiple warts that spread out across a larger area, creating a patchy, rough surface. These warts can cause pain, especially when walking or standing for long periods. They often look like small, rough bumps with black dots in the center, which are blood vessels. The area susrrounding the wart may become hardened and calloused. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat plantar warts through various methods, including cryotherapy or freezing, laser treatment, and minor surgery. They may also provide topical treatments and advice on preventing the spread of the virus. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

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Wednesday, 09 April 2025 00:00

Definition and Causes of Acute Ankle Sprains

An acute ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are suddenly stretched or torn due to excessive force. This injury often happens during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, jumping, or an awkward landing. Rolling or twisting the ankle beyond its normal range of motion is a common cause, leading to pain, swelling, and instability. Walking on uneven surfaces or wearing improper footwear can increase the risk of sprains. Sports such as basketball, soccer, and running frequently contribute to these injuries. Weak muscles and previous ankle injuries may also make the joint more vulnerable. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can accurately treat this painful condition.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

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Tuesday, 08 April 2025 00:00

Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?

Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.

Tuesday, 01 April 2025 00:00

Causes of Ankle Pain From Walking

Ankle pain while walking can result from several conditions that affect the joint, tendons, or ligaments. Ankle sprains occur when ligaments stretch or tear due to an awkward twist or misstep. Gout can cause inflammation in the ankle joint due to crystal deposits in the joint that lead to pain and swelling. Osteoarthritis, which develops when the protective cartilage wears down, causes stiffness and discomfort. Rheumatoid arthritis triggers chronic inflammation that can affect ankle joint function. Impingement syndrome results from nerve or tendon compression and is often seen in people who engage in repetitive movements. Additionally, tendinitis, which occurs due to overuse, leads to irritation and inflammation of the ankle tendons, making walking difficult. A podiatrist can determine the cause of your ankle pain and determine whether supportive devices, medication, or surgery is needed. If you experience foot pain during or after walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

 

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