Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and the feet can be affected more than expected. As body weight increases and the center of gravity shifts forward, pressure may be distributed differently across the feet. This can change the way a woman walks and may contribute to foot discomfort. Pregnancy also increases levels of relaxin, a hormone that loosens ligaments throughout the body. In the feet, this can affect the plantar fascia, which is the strong band of tissue that helps form the arch. As these structures become more flexible, the feet may flatten, widen, or increase in length. Some of these changes can remain after pregnancy.

Changes in the foot arch can lead to over-pronation, which happens when the foot rolls inward too much while bearing weight. This can increase strain on the plantar fascia and may contribute to plantar fasciitis. A lower arch can also increase stress on the legs and back. Bunions may develop as the shape and alignment of the foot change. Swelling, also called edema, is another frequent concern during pregnancy. Increased body fluids and pressure on blood vessels can contribute to swelling in the feet and ankles. Swelling may also be accompanied by aching, numbness, or tingling.

A podiatrist can evaluate pregnancy-related foot pain, and identify changes in foot structure or walking patterns. Because some changes can become long-lasting, professional assessment may be helpful when symptoms begin affecting comfort or mobility. A podiatrist can examine arch height, foot alignment, and areas experiencing increased pressure. Professional podiatric care can also help determine whether symptoms are related to common pregnancy changes or require additional medical attention. Foot problems during pregnancy should not automatically be dismissed when they are persistent or painful. If pregnancy-related foot pain, swelling, or structural changes are making walking uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho. our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Toenail fungus, known as onychomycosis, affects the toenails. It develops when fungi enter through cracks in the nail or skin. Infection can cause nails to become thick, brittle, discolored, or misshapen. Affected nails may appear yellow, white, or brown and sometimes develop an odor. As the infection progresses, pain or tenderness may develop, especially when shoes place pressure on the toe. Thickened nails can become difficult to cut and maintain.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing toenail fungus. Warm, damp environments create conditions where fungi thrive. Sweaty feet and wearing closed shoes can increase moisture around the nails. Walking barefoot in shared showers, gyms, or locker rooms can increase exposure. Previous toenail injuries may provide an opening for infection. Poor circulation and certain chronic health conditions can increase vulnerability. Keeping feet clean and dry can help lower the risk.

A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus by examining the affected nail and skin while reviewing your symptoms and history. In some cases, a small nail clipping or scraping is sent for laboratory testing to confirm the infection and identify the fungus. Treatment depends on the severity and type of infection. Options may include professional nail trimming or thinning, prescription antifungal medication, or laser therapy. Because toenails grow slowly, recovery requires patience and consistent treatment.

Early evaluation can help prevent toenail fungus from becoming more severe or difficult to manage. If you notice changes in nail color, thickness, or shape, a podiatrist can determine whether fungus is responsible or whether another condition is causing the changes. Podiatric care can provide an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and ongoing monitoring as healthy nail growth occurs. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Richard M. Allen, DPM of Idaho. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lewiston, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, develops when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. Fatty deposits inside these blood vessels are usually responsible for this narrowing. Without enough oxygen-rich blood, the feet may become painful and slow to heal. Signs include cramping in the calves when walking, cold feet, and a weak pulse in the lower legs. The skin may look pale, shiny, or bluish. Toenails can grow slowly, and hair on the feet or legs may decrease. As the condition advances, some patients also develop numbness or pain while resting.

Several factors raise the risk of developing PAD. Smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure are major concerns. High cholesterol and older age can also increase risk. Because reduced circulation limits healing, a small blister or cut can become a serious wound. An untreated wound may develop an infection, tissue damage, or limb loss. People with diabetes face added danger because nerve damage can make an injury difficult to feel. Changes should not be ignored, even when they seem minor. A sore that does not heal, a change in skin color, or sudden foot pain requires prompt medical attention.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for circulation problems and check the skin, nails, and pulse. The examination can also identify wounds that require careful treatment. Tests that compare blood pressure at the ankle and arm can help measure blood flow. A podiatrist can clean and protect wounds, remove damaged tissue, and reduce pressure on sore areas. Regular foot examinations can help detect problems before they become severe. A medical team approach can help manage PAD and protect foot health. In severe cases, procedures or surgery may be considered to improve circulation. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It usually develops between the toes, but it can also affect the bottoms and sides of the feet. The infection spreads through contact with fungus on an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Walking barefoot in locker rooms, public pools, or shared shower areas can increase exposure. Warm, moist feet can also create conditions that allow the fungus to grow. Symptoms can include itching, redness, and discomfort. These symptoms can affect more than the skin’s appearance and can make standing or walking uncomfortable.

A podiatrist can evaluate the skin and determine whether the changes are consistent with athlete’s foot or another foot condition. A careful examination can help identify the location and severity of the infection. Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on controlling the fungal infection and protecting the affected skin. Depending on the findings, care can include an appropriate antifungal medication, monitoring the skin for changes, and guidance on preventing the infection from spreading. A podiatrist can also look for problems that could make the skin more vulnerable to irritation or infection. This is especially important when cracking or other skin changes are present. Prompt attention can help reduce discomfort and support healthier skin.

Athlete’s foot can sometimes resemble other conditions that cause redness, scaling, or irritation. Because the appearance of a foot problem does not always reveal its cause, a proper evaluation is important before choosing treatment. A podiatrist can also assess whether the infection has affected other areas of the foot and whether additional care is appropriate. Signs like persistent itching, painful cracks, or spreading redness should not be ignored. Getting podiatric care can help identify the cause of symptoms and create a treatment plan based on the condition of the feet. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho.  our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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