Runner’s toe, also known as black toenail or jogger's toe, is a common condition among runners and athletes. It occurs when the toes repeatedly hit the front of the shoe, causing trauma to the toenail bed. This trauma can lead to bleeding under the nail, resulting in discoloration that looks black or purple and sometimes pain. The main cause of runner’s toe is the repetitive pressure and impact experienced during running or other high-impact activities. Additionally, poorly fitting shoes or shoes that are too tight can increase pressure on the toes. The condition is more prevalent in long-distance runners or those who frequently engage in activities that involve repetitive toe movement. While runner’s toe is typically not a serious medical concern, it can be uncomfortable and may require treatment if pain or infection develops. Proper footwear can help prevent this condition, allowing runners to enjoy their sport without the discomfort of black toenails. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat runner’s toe.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Plantar fasciitis can be a result of inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. This condition typically occurs from repetitive strain or excessive pressure on the feet. It is commonly experienced by athletes, runners, and individuals who stand for extended periods. The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain that is particularly sharp and stabbing, and often worsens with activity or after prolonged periods of rest. Additionally, individuals with plantar fasciitis may experience discomfort along the arch of the foot. While the severity of symptoms can vary, untreated plantar fasciitis can significantly impair mobility and quality of life. Early recognition and appropriate management, including rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and in severe cases, surgical intervention, are important for effective relief and prevention of long-term complications. Plantar fasciitis is treated by a podiatrist. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can successfully provide treatment.

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 Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Baseball demands agility, speed, and precise footwork, placing significant strain on the lower extremities, particularly the ankles and feet. Ankle sprains, one of the most prevalent injuries, occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are overstretched or torn due to sudden twists or impacts. Additionally, conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis can arise from repetitive stress or inadequate foot support, causing pain and discomfort. To prevent these injuries, players should prioritize proper warm-up exercises to prepare muscles and joints for the demands of the game. Wearing well-fitted, supportive footwear designed for baseball can enhance stability and reduce the risk of injury. Maintaining good conditioning and flexibility through regular strength and flexibility training can improve overall resilience. Emphasizing proper technique, such as avoiding over-striding or landing awkwardly, can also help minimize the risk of ankle and foot injuries. If you have injured your foot or ankle while playing baseball, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and relief tips.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that can affect anyone regardless of their athletic pursuits. This highly contagious fungus spreads easily from person to person, and thrives in moist environments such as pools, locker rooms, and public showers. The fungus responsible commonly affects the feet, causing redness, itching, and skin flakiness between the toes. Other symptoms of athlete's foot include burning or stinging sensations, blisters, and thick or discolored toenails. Symptoms may differ, depending on the type of athlete’s foot infection. Toe web infection typically results in skin peeling and cracking between the fourth and fifth toes. Moccasin type infection presents as thick, cracked skin on the bottom of the foot, often near the heel. It is sometimes accompanied by a foul odor. Vesicular type infection leads to blisters on the sole of the foot. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you seek prompt treatment from a podiatrist to limit the spread of infection.

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 Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. 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 office located in Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to nerve fibers. The nerves in the legs and feet are primarily affected. This can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the affected areas. Patients typically have a difficult time feeling heat, cold, or pain. This reduced sensation increases the risk of injuries going unnoticed and becoming infected, potentially leading to severe complications. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, plays an important role in managing diabetic neuropathy by conducting regular foot examinations to monitor for potential injuries that patients may not detect themselves. They can also provide guidance on proper foot care practices, recommend suitable footwear to protect the feet, and promptly treat any foot problems, such as ulcers or infections. If you have neuropathy, it is suggested that you regularly consult a podiatrist to monitor any foot concerns. 

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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