A blister is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the skin due to repetitive friction. This typically arises when skin continually rubs against objects, such as the inside of shoes. The friction causes skin layers to separate, prompting the body to fill the void with fluid as a protective mechanism against further harm. Blisters can be painful, especially when wearing shoes that contribute to the friction. They are common and can be attributed to factors like poorly fitting shoes, foot deformities, sweat, prolonged exercise, or using unsuitable socks. It is advisable to refrain from popping blisters, as this exposes the wound to potential infections. Instead, protect it with a bandage and eliminate the friction source. There are other conditions with symptoms resembling blisters, such as impetigo, eczema, and burns. If you have a foot blister that does not heal in a reasonable time, worsens, or appears infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can distinguish it from other ailments, treat it, and provide prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. Our doctor 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 offices located in Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot, scientifically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that can affect anyone. It is notorious for causing discomfort, itching, and unsightly skin changes. Athlete’s foot tends to be more prevalent among older adults, especially males. The primary cause is dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrive in warm and humid environments. You can contract athlete's foot by walking barefoot on wet and contaminated floors, especially in public areas like locker rooms, showers, and pools. It also can be transmitted by sharing towels, clothing, or shoes with someone who has the infection. Prolonged use of sweaty, tight shoes that create a moist environment for fungi to flourish also increases the risk of infection. Symptoms of athlete's foot can include red and inflamed skin, persistent itchiness, flaky and scaly skin, thickened skin, and dry feet. In severe cases, tiny red blisters may develop between the toes or on the soles of the feet. The good news is that athlete's foot is generally easy to treat with prescribed antifungal creams or oral medications. If you suspect you have a particularly troublesome case of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help managing this fungal infection.

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 John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center.  Our doctor 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 Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peroneal pain is a common challenge arising from injuries or strain to the lower leg and foot peroneal muscles, often disrupting mobility and well-being. Multiwave Locked System, abbreviated MLS therapy is a groundbreaking technique that offers relief from this discomfort. MLS therapy addresses peroneal pain thoroughly by utilizing synchronized wavelengths of laser light. The continuous wavelength triggers the release of natural pain relievers, swiftly alleviating discomfort, while the pulsed wavelength encourages cellular repair and diminishes inflammation. This dual-pronged approach not only provides relief but also accelerates healing, enabling individuals to regain their stride sooner. The non-invasive nature of MLS therapy ensures minimal disruption to daily life, making it an attractive relief option for peroneal pain. If you have this type of pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine if this treatment is right for you.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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

Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is characterized by the difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot while walking. This condition can pose significant challenges to mobility and is often associated with an underlying cause, such as multiple sclerosis. However, foot drop can result from other neurological syndromes or even from physical damage to a nerve. Patients experiencing foot drop tend to adopt a distinctive walking pattern, resembling the act of climbing stairs. This is due to the difficulty in raising the front of the foot, which leads them to overcompensate by lifting their knee higher with each step. In addition to the primary symptom of foot drop, a range of other muscle and nerve-related challenges can further compound the difficulties posed by this condition. Managing these symptoms often requires a comprehensive approach that may include orthotic devices, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical intervention. For help in dealing with drop foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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