Friction blisters form when repeated rubbing irritates the skin, causing fluid to collect under the surface. They are common on the feet, especially during activities like walking, running, or wearing tight shoes. The most frequent culprits are poorly fitting footwear, moisture, and prolonged activity. Prevention is key. Wear shoes that fit properly and allow room for your toes. Moisture-wicking socks keep your feet dry, reducing friction. Consider double-layered socks or applying blister prevention products like moleskin or anti-friction balms. Keep your shoes in good condition, and ensure they are broken in before extended wear. If blisters persist, worsen, or show signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor can provide treatment and advice to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. 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 office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Walking barefoot is a natural activity that can have numerous benefits for children. When kids walk without shoes, they allow their feet to develop and strengthen naturally. The muscles and ligaments in the feet work more effectively when they are not restricted by footwear, promoting better balance and coordination. Barefoot walking also helps improve posture as it encourages children to align their bodies properly. Furthermore, walking barefoot allows children to connect with their environment, providing sensory feedback that can stimulate cognitive and emotional development. It also promotes the proper formation of the arches in the feet, reducing the risk of developing issues such as flat feet. In addition, barefoot walking can help increase circulation and improve the flexibility of the feet. While it is important to be mindful of potential hazards, allowing kids to walk barefoot at home or in safe outdoor spaces can contribute positively to their physical and overall development. If your child has foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and address any concern you may have about barefoot walking.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves in the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around a nerve thickens, leading to pain, numbness, or a sensation of a lump in the affected area. Symptoms may worsen when wearing tight shoes or high heels, as the pressure on the foot increases. Common causes include repetitive stress or irritation to the foot, from high-impact activities, poorly fitted footwear, or foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. To diagnose Morton's neuroma, a podiatrist will typically perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness or swelling between the toes. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI scan, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor 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 office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can lead to various foot and toenail issues due to poor circulation, nerve damage, and compromised immune function. Common toenail problems in diabetic patients include onycholysis, which is a separation of the nail from the nail bed, ingrown toenails and fungal infections. Additionally, periungual erythema may occur, which is redness surrounding the nail. These conditions often arise because diabetes weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and heal wounds. Symptoms include pain, swelling, discoloration, or a thickened nail, which may become brittle or discolored. Fungal infections may cause the nail to crumble or thicken, while ingrown toenails can cause tenderness and redness. Treatment may involve antifungal medications, proper nail trimming techniques, or the use of orthotics to alleviate pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend medical interventions or even nail removal. Proper foot care, including regular check-ups with a podiatrist, is essential for preventing complications. If you have these types of issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and increased risk of other foot and joint problems. The condition can be caused by genetics, injury, or conditions such as obesity or aging. Yoga can be an effective way to relieve the discomfort caused by flat feet. Specific stretches help strengthen the muscles of the feet and lower legs, improving support for the arch. Poses such as downward dog, warrior 1, and tree pose focus on enhancing foot stability and flexibility. Additionally, yoga promotes proper alignment and body awareness, which can reduce the strain on the feet and prevent further complications. Regular yoga practice can improve overall foot strength and flexibility, providing relief and potentially preventing the progression of flat feet. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, which can include specific yoga stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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