A blister is a raised pocket of fluid that forms when the upper layers of skin separate. On the feet, repeated friction is the leading cause. Shoes that are too tight, loose, or stiff can rub the skin. Heat and moisture can make this rubbing worse. Blisters frequently develop on the heels, toes, or balls of the feet. Symptoms of foot blisters include tenderness, redness, and a fluid-filled bubble. Although most blisters heal within several days to a week, pressure can delay healing and increase discomfort.

Some people face a greater risk of complications from a foot blister. Diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in the feet can make a small wound harder to notice and heal. A blister that breaks can invite a bacterial infection. Warning signs of infection include increasing redness, warmth, or swelling. Drainage, worsening pain, and red streaks also require medical attention. A podiatrist can examine blisters that are severe, keep returning, or do not improve. Prompt care is especially important for patients with diabetes or circulation problems, since an untreated infection can threaten tissue and raise the risk of limb loss.

Popping a blister yourself is not recommended. A podiatrist can clean and protect the area, safely draining a large blister while preserving its protective skin, or applying a dressing. The podiatrist can also reduce pressure with padding or custom orthotics. To help prevent new blisters, the podiatrist may assess shoe fit, foot shape, and walking patterns. Recommendations can include wearing well-fitting shoes, moisture-wicking socks, and protective padding for areas that rub. Patients who develop repeated blisters may need an evaluation for a bony prominence or another source of pressure. Addressing the cause can improve comfort and reduce the chance of another blister forming. If you have a painful blister on the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM of Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Ankle pain can make walking, standing, and staying active difficult. The ankle is a weight-bearing joint made up of ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work together to provide movement and stability. Pain can develop suddenly after an injury or gradually from repeated stress. Ankle sprains are a common cause and occur when ligaments are stretched or torn. Other causes include arthritis, tendon problems, and fractures. The location and severity of ankle pain can vary depending on the affected tissue. Some conditions cause discomfort only during movement, while others may produce pain even when little pressure is placed on the ankle.

Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, tenderness, or difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Some people also notice bruising or reduced ankle movement after an injury. Ankle pain that develops gradually may be related to changes in the joint or irritation of a tendon. Because the ankle supports the body with each step, ongoing discomfort can change the way a person walks. These changes may place additional stress on the foot or other parts of the lower leg. Severe pain, significant swelling, or an inability to walk should receive prompt professional attention. An exam can help determine the cause and severity of the problem.

A podiatrist can evaluate ankle pain and identify injuries or conditions affecting the foot and ankle. During an examination, the podiatrist may check joint movement, stability, and areas of tenderness. Imaging may be recommended if a fracture or another structural problem is suspected. Podiatry treatment depends on the diagnosis and may focus on reducing pain, improving mobility, and supporting proper ankle function. An individualized care plan can also address foot mechanics that may place extra stress on the ankle. If persistent ankle pain, swelling, or limited movement is interfering with walking or daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Steven Wolfington, DPM from Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sheboygan, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A Lisfranc fracture is an injury involving the section of the foot where several bones and ligaments connect the forefoot to the hindfoot. The injury can involve a broken bone, damaged ligament, or both. It may happen after a sports injury, fall, or vehicle accident. Because the Lisfranc joint complex supports the foot while walking, an untreated injury can cause pain, instability, and arthritis. Recognizing the injury can help protect foot function and improve recovery.

Symptoms may include pain across the midfoot, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Bruising may appear on the bottom of the foot, which can be a warning sign. The foot may look swollen or misshapen, and walking may become uncomfortable. Some injuries are mistaken for a simple sprain because symptoms can vary. Risk factors include high-impact sports, falls, and accidents that force the foot into an abnormal position.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing how the injury occurred and examining the foot for swelling, bruising, and instability. Weight-bearing X-rays may help identify changes in bone alignment. CT or MRI scans may be recommended when the injury is difficult to see. Treatment depends on severity and whether the bones remain aligned. Stable injuries may require immobilization and limited weight-bearing. More serious injuries may need surgery to restore alignment and stabilize the damaged joints.

Healing from a Lisfranc fracture takes time and follow-up. A podiatrist may use a protective cast or boot, recommend crutches, and increase weight-bearing as healing progresses. After immobilization, rehabilitation can improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Imaging tests may confirm that the foot remains aligned during healing. Do not ignore midfoot pain or swelling after an injury. If you have a Lisfranc fracture or suspect this type of injury, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM from Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, becomes irritated. This tissue connects the heel to the front of the foot and helps support the arch. The condition usually causes pain near the bottom of the heel. Discomfort can be especially noticeable with the first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for a long period of time. Pain can also increase after extended standing or demanding activity.

Several factors can place extra stress on the plantar fascia. Repeated running, prolonged standing, and activities that increase strain on the heel can contribute to irritation. Tight calf muscles can also affect how the foot moves and increase tension on the plantar fascia. Foot structure can play a role as well. Flat feet or high arches can change the way pressure moves through the foot.  Wearing shoes that lack proper support can add stress to the heel and arch, especially when a person spends many hours on hard surfaces.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain and determine whether plantar fasciitis is responsible for the symptoms. The examination can assess where the pain occurs, how the foot moves, and whether other conditions could be causing discomfort. Imaging can be considered when another source of heel pain is suspected. Treatment can include supportive shoe inserts, prescription orthotics, or a night splint. A podiatrist can also recommend stretching and activity changes based on the patient's condition. More persistent cases can require additional treatment to reduce pain and support healing. Surgery is generally reserved for severe symptoms that do not improve with other forms of care. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Steven Wolfington, DPM from Sheboygan Foot Care, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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