Diabetic foot blisters are a concerning complication for people managing diabetes, primarily due to nerve damage and poor circulation. Friction blisters often occur in diabetics with neuropathy, where the lack of pain sensation leads to unnoticed skin rubbing and blister formation. One type of blister specific to diabetes can appear spontaneously and without inflammation, while posing a high risk for secondary infections. Certain fungal infections also contribute to blister formation, especially in warm, moist areas, such as between the toes. A podiatrist plays an essential role in managing these complications by providing regular foot exams and identifying early signs of blister formation. This foot doctor also can educate patients on proper foot care practices to prevent blisters, such as choosing suitable footwear and maintaining good hygiene. For fungal infections, a podiatrist can prescribe effective antifungal medications and monitor the healing process. If you are experiencing diabetic foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Acute ankle sprains are often caused by sudden twists that stretch or tear ligaments surrounding the ankle, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty while walking. Immediate treatment for an acute ankle sprain is important for effective recovery and to prevent long-term complications. Supportive measures include a lace-up brace, an air stirrup brace, or an elastic compression wrap to stabilize the injured ankle and promote faster healing. Early mobilization, as tolerated by pain levels, has been shown to aid in quicker recovery and reduce the risk of chronic ankle instability. Pain relief medications can help to manage inflammation and discomfort. Athletes and those prone to recurrent sprains may wish to consider using ankle supports during sports to prevent future injuries. If you have recently sprained your ankle or are experiencing persistent discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan to ensure proper healing, and to minimize the chance of future ankle problems.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes thickens, causing sharp, burning pain, numbness, or a sensation of having a pebble in the shoe. Relief remedies for Morton's neuroma include wearing shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the affected area. Custom orthotic inserts can provide additional support and alleviate pain. Specific stretches and exercises to strengthen the foot muscles can be beneficial in providing relief. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is best for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Maintaining good foot health is essential for seniors to ensure mobility and overall well-being. Regular foot care includes keeping feet clean and dry, which helps prevent infections. Moisturizing daily can prevent dry, cracked skin, while avoiding areas between the toes to reduce fungal growth. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes can prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of falls. It is also important to inspect feet regularly for any changes such as sores, redness, or swelling, and to address issues promptly. Trimming toenails straight across helps prevent ingrown nails, while gentle foot exercises can improve circulation and flexibility. Consulting a podiatrist for any persistent foot problems ensures appropriate treatment and care. If you have foot pain or are caring for an elderly person, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can effectively offer relief options, in addition to individualized foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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