FOOT INFECTIONS SPECIALIST IN HOUSTON TX AND SURROUNDING AREAS
As a trusted and leading Clinic, we take pride in delivering top-notch foot infection treatment in Houston TX
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Understanding
foot infections
There are numerous different causes of an infection however, some of the root causes of a foot infection are due to the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in the body. Whether you caught one of these microorganisms through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, cuts or wounds, or even through fungal spores. These microorganisms may then cause the infected area to swell, become red and itchy, or even form puss.
Foot infections can easily become dangerous if left untreated for a long period. This is why our podiatrists at Vital Podiatry can help prevent the infection from spreading to deeper tissues, causing cellulitis, which is a potentially serious skin infection. Moreover, it can also cause the development of osteomyelitis, a bone infection, which can cause significant damage and require surgical intervention. In more severe cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream, leading to a condition known as sepsis, which is a life-threatening systemic infection.
Signs and symptoms of infection
Signs and symptoms of foot infections can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. It’s essential to be aware of these indicators to seek proper treatment and preventative measures. Some of the most common signs of an infection include redness, swelling, and warmth around the affected area. Nevertheless, these symptoms can quickly become more severe and cause inflammation, painful blisters, or pus-filled sores and ulcers.
As the infection progresses, there may be a foul odor emanating from the foot. Difficulty in walking or putting weight on the affected foot is another potential symptom. In cases of fungal foot infections, such as athlete’s foot, itching, peeling skin, and the presence of a rash between the toes are one of the most common symptoms.
It is crucial to recognize that certain high-risk individuals, such as those with diabetes or compromised immune systems, need to be particularly vigilant about foot infections. Diabetic foot infections can have serious consequences and lead to complications such as ulcers and tissue damage. Our podiatrist recommends individuals in this category should pay extra attention to any changes in their feet, including persistent redness, swelling, or the presence of sores that are slow to heal.
Types of infections
Like any other deformity or problem related to the foot, hammertoe can occur due to a number of factors. Sometimes the deformity may be genetic, in other cases, it may be due to external factors such as your age, lifestyle, or even the type of shoes you wear every day. Some of the common sources of hammertoe are:
Plantar warts
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and commonly occur on the sole of the foot. They appear as small, rough, and thickened lesions with tiny black dots.
Athlete’s foot
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that commonly affects the feet. It causes itching, burning, and peeling of the skin, especially between the toes. Blisters and cracked, dry skin may also be present.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a bacterial infection that affects the bones of the foot. It can occur due to a penetrating injury or the spread of infection from surrounding tissues.
Cellulitis
A bacterial infection that affects the skin and underlying tissues. It typically enters through cuts, cracks, or wounds on the foot.
Ingrown toenails
Occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and potential infection. Ingrown toenails can develop from improper trimming or tight footwear.
FOOT INFECTION DIAGNOSIS AT VITAL PODIATRY IN HOUSTON TX
Diagnosing foot infections involves a comprehensive evaluation of the symptoms, physical examination, and in some cases, specific tests.
Our podiatrist at Vital Podiatry will start by discussing the patient’s medical history, including any previous foot infections, chronic conditions like diabetes or circulatory issues, and recent injuries or exposure to potential sources of infection. The second step is the physical examination. A thorough examination of the foot will be conducted to assess the skin’s appearance and check for symptoms. Our specialists will also evaluate the range of motion, pain levels, and consider any drainage or discharge from the affected area.
If the infection appears severe or doesn’t respond to initial treatment, a sample may be taken for further testing in the lab. In some cases, our podiatrist may conduct X-rays, ultrasounds, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to assess the extent of infection, determine if there is any involvement of deeper tissues or bones, and guide treatment decisions. These imaging studies help identify conditions like osteomyelitis or abscess formation. A part of the thorough testing is the blood tests which may be conducted to evaluate the overall health status, check for signs of systemic infection, monitor white blood cell count, and assess blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. A biopsy may be performed if there are persistent or atypical lesions.
FOOT INFECTION Treatment at Vital Podiatry IN HOUSTON TX
Treatment and prevention strategies play a vital role in managing and avoiding foot infections. The following measures are commonly employed for both the treatment and prevention of foot infections:
Depending on the type and severity of the infection, our podiatrists may start with topical or oral antifungal, antibacterial, or antiviral medications. These medications target the specific microorganism causing the infection. Additionally, proper wound care is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healing. It involves cleaning the affected area with wound washing solutions, keeping it dry, and applying sterile dressings or topical ointments as recommended by our healthcare professional.
In cases of bacterial infections, oral or intravenous antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the infection and prevent it from spreading. If an infection has led to the formation of dead or infected tissue, debridement may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the unhealthy tissue to promote healing.
How to prevent infections
Good Foot Hygiene is an essential part of preventing foot infections. Regularly washing and thoroughly drying the feet, especially between the toes, can help prevent fungal and bacterial infections. Proper footwear can also be a great way to allow proper airflow and can help prevent foot infections. Furthermore, regular checkups and promptly treating any injuries or abnormalities can prevent infections from developing or worsening.
As for ingrown toenails, proper nail care, including regular trimming, can also decrease the risk of ingrown and infections. Lastly, it is important to protect your feet as often as possible. Wearing protective footwear in public areas like locker rooms, pools, and showers can greatly reduce the risk of contracting fungal infections.
Fast and Efficient FOOT SPECIALIST IN HOUSTON TX
Vital Podiatry is dedicated to providing you with treatment options that are fast and easy so you can be back on your feet in no time.
Simply call us for a quick consultation over the phone or book an appointment to see a doctor in person. Our staff is always available on the phone, and we also book urgent appointments.
The doctor will conduct all relevant tests to accurately diagnose your foot condition. Since we offer in-clinic X-rays and vascular studies, it makes getting the results quicker and easier.
Depending on your diagnosis, our team will come up with a custom treatment plan tailored to your requirements and lifestyle. We work based on a holistic approach and make a treatment plan accordingly.
Throughout the treatment, our doctors will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. This ensures that you get the best approach to healing your foot condition.
Don’t let foot pain hold you back any longer. Schedule your appointment with Vital Podiatry today.
We are very proud of the treatment we have given to our patients. Through the years, we have received many positive reviews. We implore you to browse through them to learn more about our care and services.
Vital Podiatry did a wonderful job on diagnosing my issues in timely fashion. I was quickly taken in as a new patient and treated with respect.
Vital Podiatry is very understanding and takes the time to explain all remedies and procedures. The front office staff and assistants are extremely nice and personable.
The culture at every level is outstanding. From the excellent bedside manner during the physical examination to the post-operative care, the nursing care was amazing.
INSURANCE LIST
At Vital Podiatry, we believe that everyone deserves to have healthy and pain-free feet, which is why we accept a wide range of insurance plans to ensure our patients can receive the treatment they need without any financial burden.
See Your Podiatrist Today IN HOUSTON!
If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain, don’t wait any longer to get the treatment you need. Book an appointment with Vital Podiatry today and take the first step toward getting the relief you need. At our podiatry practice, we offer a range of effective treatment options to help relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. Our experienced team of podiatrists develops a personalized treatment plan for your foot that is suited to your needs and goals.