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Northampton (610) 261-1001


Easton (610) 253-4821

review Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM on google
review Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM on google
review Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM on google

July 2020

Monday, 27 July 2020 00:00

Fungus and Athlete's Foot

The foot condition that is known as athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus. This type of fungus is referred to as tinea pedis, and lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These can include public shower room floors, locker rooms, pools, and their surrounding areas. Some of the symptoms that patients experience may include red and itchy skin, especially between the toes and the bottom of the feet, and small blisters, which may develop in severe cases. There are methods that can be implemented which can help to control the spread of athlete's foot. These can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while frequenting these types of areas, and avoiding sharing towels, shoes, and socks. Mild relief may be found when an antifungal powder or spray is used. If you are afflicted with this type of fungus, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe medicine that can promote recovery.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

 

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Monday, 27 July 2020 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Monday, 20 July 2020 00:00

What Causes Plantar Warts?

Warts, which can grow throughout the body, are outgrowths on the skin that are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).  Warts can be very contagious, and they can spread through skin-to-skin contact or through sharing personal items.  Plantar warts grow on the bottom of the feet and usually have tiny black dots in them.  Generally, warts disappear over time, but it may take months for them to do so.  While plantar warts are usually harmless, they can be very painful.  There are a variety of treatment options for warts that are causing pain, including chemical treatments and lasers.  Some podiatrists may even elect to surgically remove warts that have become a problem.  If you are experiencing painful plantar warts, make sure to discuss with a podiatrist which treatment options may be right for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

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 offices located in Easton, and Northampton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about All About Plantar Warts

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Toenail fungus can cause a great deal of discomfort and foot pain. Some common symptoms of this condition may include discoloration, brittleness, and thickening of the affected toenail. In severe cases, the nail may lift from the toenail bed. If the nail is neglected and left untreated, it’s possible for the infection to spread to other toenails, which is why promptly treating this condition is so important. Keeping the feet clean, dry, and trauma-free are extremely important methods in toenail fungus prevention. Wearing moisture-wicking socks, and appropriate footwear in public areas such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and gyms can also help to prevent getting toenail fungus. For more information on how to care and treat an infected toenail, please consult with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson of Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

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Monday, 13 July 2020 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

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.

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Monday, 06 July 2020 00:00

Common Causes of Sesamoiditis

Younger adults who participate in sporting activities may run a higher risk of developing the foot condition known as sesamoiditis. Sesamoiditis is caused by inflammation of the sesamoid bones, located behind the big toe at the bottom of the foot. Those who commonly participate in physical activities can run the risk of placing stress on the feet. Common sporting activities linked to this condition may include soccer, football, dancing, and baseball, particularly for those who pitch. Another common cause can include wearing ill-fitting footwear. Shoes such as high heels, while often being too tight for the feet, can also cause one to fall. For more information and advice on how to treat sesamoiditis, please consult with a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson of Easton, PA. . Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Read more about Sesamoiditis
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