Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. Although it often begins between the toes, it can also spread to other areas of the foot if left untreated. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool areas common places for exposure. Symptoms include itching, burning, and cracked skin. Some people also notice redness, peeling, or a rash that causes ongoing discomfort. In more severe cases, the skin may become painful or develop blisters. Because other skin conditions can appear similar, a professional evaluation is important to confirm the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing athlete's foot. Wearing damp footwear, sharing personal items, or spending time in moist environments may increase the chance of infection. People who sweat heavily or have small breaks in the skin may also be more susceptible. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread to the toenails or other areas of the body. Persistent symptoms may also make walking and other daily activities uncomfortable. Identifying the infection early allows treatment to begin before the condition becomes more difficult to manage.

A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot by examining the affected skin and determining whether additional testing is needed. Professional treatment focuses on eliminating the fungal infection, relieving symptoms, and helping prevent complications. If the infection has spread or continues to return, a podiatrist can recommend more advanced treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Early podiatry care may also reduce the risk of long-term skin or nail problems. If itching, peeling, or burning skin on your feet is affecting your comfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle.  Our doctors 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 offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing the wrong running shoes can negatively affect foot health, performance, and overall comfort during physical activity. Running shoes are designed to provide proper support, cushioning, and alignment based on an individual foot type and movement pattern. When shoes do not match these needs, they can disrupt natural biomechanics and increase stress on the feet. Over time, this mismatch can lead to discomfort and injury. Understanding the importance of proper footwear selection is essential for maintaining foot stability and preventing long-term damage.

Symptoms of wearing improper running shoes often include foot pain, discomfort, and reduced performance during activity. Runners may notice early fatigue, lack of support, or instability with each step. Continued use of unsuitable shoes can lead to premature wear and tear on the feet and surrounding joints. This may increase the risk of developing conditions such as blisters, toenail issues, and nerve related problems like neuromas. These symptoms can interfere with movement and limit the ability to maintain consistent physical activity.

Several causes contribute to problems associated with wearing incorrect footwear. Shoes that are too tight can compress the toes and create pressure points, while shoes that are too loose may fail to provide proper support. Lack of cushioning can increase impact stress, and poor arch support may lead to improper weight distribution. Choosing shoes based only on appearance rather than function can also contribute to these issues. Without proper fit and design, the feet are forced to compensate, which may lead to structural strain, over time.

Risk factors include high activity levels, improper gait mechanics, and lack of professional fitting when selecting running shoes. Selecting the right running shoes, replacing worn footwear, and paying attention to comfort can reduce risk. If you have foot conditions from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on how to choose the right shoes for your desired style of running.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a tear in the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon helps you to push off the ground while walking, climbing stairs, and running. A rupture usually happens during a sudden movement, especially when changing direction or pushing off quickly. Many people describe hearing or feeling a pop at the back of the ankle when the injury occurs. Pain, swelling, and difficulty standing on the toes usually follow. Walking becomes difficult because the foot cannot push forward normally. Early evaluation is important because prompt diagnosis helps guide treatment and improves the chance of a successful recovery. Ignoring the injury can lead to ongoing weakness and reduced movement.

A podiatrist carefully examines the foot and ankle to confirm whether the tendon has torn. The examination includes checking movement, strength, and the position of the tendon. Imaging tests, like an ultrasound scan or MRI, can provide a clearer picture of the injury when necessary. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear and the patient's activity level. Some ruptures heal with a protective boot that holds the foot in a pointed position while the tendon repairs itself. Regular follow-up visits allow a podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust the treatment plan throughout recovery.

A podiatrist also helps patients return safely to normal activities by monitoring strength, balance, and foot function.  Wearing supportive shoes and custom orthotics can improve foot alignment and reduce strain on the healing tendon after treatment. Early care lowers the risk of another injury and helps restore confidence while walking. Careful monitoring also helps identify problems before they interfere with recovery. Following a personalized treatment plan gives the tendon the best opportunity to heal correctly. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot corns are small, concentrated areas of thickened skin that form as a natural defense against repeated pressure or friction. They typically develop on or around the toes, especially along the top, sides, or between toes where footwear creates constant rubbing. Unlike calluses, which are larger and spread out, corns are more defined and often have a hardened center that presses into deeper layers of skin. This focused pressure can lead to discomfort and interfere with normal foot function, particularly for individuals who spend extended periods standing or walking.

Symptoms of foot corns usually begin with localized tenderness and irritation in the affected area. Many individuals notice discomfort when wearing shoes or during walking activities. The skin may feel rough and thick, and a small, hardened core may become visible over time. Pain often increases when direct pressure is applied and may improve once the source of friction is removed. In some cases, inflammation can develop around the corn, making the surrounding skin more sensitive. Early identification of these symptoms allows for more effective care and reduces the likelihood of worsening discomfort.

The primary cause of foot corns is repeated friction or pressure from ill-fitting footwear. Tight shoes, high-heeled styles, and narrow toe boxes can force the toes into unnatural positions, increasing stress on specific areas. Structural foot conditions such as hammertoes or misaligned joints can also contribute by creating uneven pressure points. Without proper intervention, continued irritation may cause the corn to become more painful and persistent.

Risk factors include wearing poorly fitted shoes, having underlying foot deformities, and engaging in activities that place repeated stress on the feet. Preventive steps include selecting properly fitted footwear, using protective padding, and maintaining regular foot care. Addressing the root cause is key to long-term relief. If you have developed a corn on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

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 Houston Foot and Ankle. 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 Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.