The most common reason blisters develop on the feet is as a result of excessive friction. This may happen from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and can cause the top layer of the skin to become raw. A small pocket of fluid will form, which is the body’s natural method in repairing skin that has become damaged. The fluid will generally drain on its own when the healing process has been completed. Many patients find it helpful to cover the affected area with a bandage as daily activities are completed. If you have blisters on your feet that you believe have become infected, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat this ailment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Teenagers who are physically active may experience a painful condition that is known as Sever’s disease. It was discovered and named in 1912, and is considered to be the most common form of heel pain in children. This condition affects the growth plate in the heel, and generally occurs during growing spurts. Performing certain sporting activities may put excess pressure on the heels, and may contribute to severe pain and swelling. Factors that may precede developing Sever’s disease can include having flat feet, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or having one leg that is shorter than the other leg. The foot may feel better when it is elevated as frequently as possible, in addition to wearing supportive shoes and inserts. If your child is afflicted with Sever’s disease, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

The Achilles tendon is comprised of two muscles in the calf, and is considered to be the strongest tendon in the body. Injuries to this tendon can be caused by participating in running and jumping activities. Additionally, they can occur as a result of wearing flip flops in the warmer weather, which may cause the Achilles tendon to stretch further than it normally would. Common symptoms that are typically felt with this type of injury may consist of the inability to point and flex the toes, soreness that is felt upon arising in the morning, and difficulty walking. Moderate relief may be found when the proper shoes are worn, and if gentle stretches are implemented into a daily routine. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. 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 office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.