An infected foot blister can become a serious issue if not treated promptly. Common symptoms include increased redness, swelling, warmth, and pain around the blister site. The area may also produce pus or a yellowish fluid, and a foul odor might be present. In some cases, the skin surrounding the blister becomes hard or discolored, and the person may develop a fever or feel generally unwell. These signs indicate the body is reacting to an infection. Blisters can become infected due to friction, poor hygiene, or puncturing the blister with unclean objects. Wearing tight shoes, walking for long periods, or having underlying health conditions like diabetes can also contribute to infection. If you have developed a foot blister that looks like it is infected, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

When a bunion becomes too painful or begins to interfere with daily life, removal surgery may be the best option. The procedure corrects the misalignment at the base of the big toe by reshaping the bone, tendons, or ligaments. It is usually done on an outpatient basis, and while there are different surgical methods, all aim to reduce pain and restore function. After surgery, rest is key. Most patients will need to wear a special shoe or boot and avoid putting weight on the foot for a few weeks. Swelling, stiffness, and soreness are normal during healing. Gentle exercises and follow-up care help regain strength and flexibility. Full recovery can take several months, but many people return to walking comfortably with improved alignment. If your bunion pain limits your movement, it is suggested you see a podiatrist to see if bunion surgery is right for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Edema is a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fluid in the body’s tissues, leading to swelling. When it affects the feet and ankles, it often causes them to appear puffy, feel tight, and sometimes become uncomfortable or tender to the touch. This swelling may worsen after long periods of standing or sitting and can make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. Common causes include poor circulation, heart or kidney conditions, pregnancy, or certain medications. Edema may also result from injuries or inflammation, and the feet and ankles are especially vulnerable due to their position on the body and the effects of gravity. If your feet and ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Maintaining good foot health is essential, especially as feet endure daily stress from walking, standing, and wearing shoes. Cleaning your feet thoroughly each day helps prevent infections and skin conditions, particularly between the toes where moisture can linger. Gentle foot exercises, such as toe curls and ankle rotations, promote circulation and maintain strength and flexibility. Rotating between different pairs of shoes allows footwear to air out and helps reduce pressure points, which can contribute to discomfort or injury. Paying attention to early signs of foot pain or changes in skin or nail health is important, as these can indicate underlying issues. Routine foot care, combined with regular check-ins from a podiatrist, can prevent small problems from becoming serious. If you experience ongoing foot discomfort, changes in appearance, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Charcot foot is a rare but serious condition that can affect people with diabetes and nerve damage. It occurs when the bones in the foot weaken and begin to fracture or dislocate without causing much pain. As the condition progresses, the foot may change shape, often becoming swollen, warm, and visibly deformed. Without treatment, continued walking on the affected foot can lead to severe damage, ulcers, and even risk of limb loss. Early signs are often mistaken for a simple sprain or infection, so prompt evaluation is essential. Treatment usually involves immobilization with a cast or boot to allow the bones to heal, followed by wearing custom footwear to prevent recurrence. In advanced cases, surgery may be needed to correct deformities. If you have diabetes and notice sudden swelling, redness, or warmth in your foot, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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