Plantar warts are small growths that appear on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, entering through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. They often develop on weight-bearing areas such as the heel or ball of the foot, causing discomfort or pain when standing or walking. Plantar warts may look like rough, grainy bumps with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. The skin around the wart can become thickened or callused, making it difficult to see the wart clearly. These warts can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces like locker rooms and showers. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar warts through a physical examination and may use specialized tools to distinguish them from corns or calluses. Treatment options include topical medications or minor procedures to remove the wart. If you are dealing with plantar warts it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to safely and effectively treat the condition.
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 St. Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices tailored specifically to achieve proper balance throughout the foot, including the heel, arch, and forefoot. They promote correct alignment from your feet up to your ankles, knees, hips, and spine, offering comprehensive support and addressing underlying medical conditions. Custom orthotics are designed to last for many years. In contrast, off-the-shelf orthotics provide limited support and cushioning and may offer only temporary relief for minor pain. Custom orthotics can improve function, weight distribution, alignment, posture, and pain associated with misalignment. They also can assist with various foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, corns, calluses, and foot ulcers related to diabetes. A thorough biomechanical assessment is conducted to determine the need for orthotics and select the appropriate type. Custom orthotics are created to support your unique foot structure, with ongoing communication with a podiatrist to ensure proper alignment. If you would like to learn more about whether custom-made orthotics can help you, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can discuss how these may assist with your specific foot problem or misalignment issues.
Our feet carry us through every part of life, absorbing the impact of thousands of steps each day. When they are not properly supported, the effects can extend far beyond the feet themselves. Custom orthotics provide the foundation the body needs by aligning, cushioning, and stabilizing each foot in its most natural position. They are carefully crafted to match the unique structure of each individual’s feet, allowing them to move efficiently and comfortably while reducing stress on the muscles, joints, and ligaments.
Proper foot support is essential for maintaining balance and preventing fatigue. Without it, the body compensates by shifting weight unevenly, which can lead to discomfort in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back. Custom orthotics help restore this balance by redistributing pressure and promoting a more natural walking pattern. They not only ease existing pain but also protect against future strain or injury by supporting the arches and controlling excessive motion.
Unlike store-bought insoles, custom orthotics are created through detailed assessment and advanced technology to provide precise correction and comfort. They fit seamlessly into most shoes, making them ideal for daily wear, work, or sports.
If your feet feel tired, sore, or unsupported, it is recommended that you contact our office for more information, or to make an appointment.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL.
A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint are fractured, usually due to trauma such as a fall, twist, or sports injury. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, difficulty moving the foot, and an inability to bear weight on the injured leg. Ankle fractures can be classified as simple or complex, depending on the severity. Common causes include rolling or twisting the ankle, car accidents, or high-impact sports. In some cases, broken bones may protrude through the skin, indicating a more severe fracture. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the break. For mild fractures, a brace or splint can provide support and immobilize the ankle. Severe fractures may require a cast or surgery to realign the bones. A podiatrist can diagnose the fracture, recommend the best treatment, and guide rehabilitation. If you have a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
Swelling around the area
Bruising of the area
Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
