May brings heat, sunshine, and most importantly, skin cancer awareness month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, with over 5 million new diagnoses every year. It’s a common belief that excessive sun exposure is the sole cause of skin cancer, however, skin cancer can also develop due to a variety of factors such as viruses, chemical exposure, chronic inflammation, and inheritable traits. Skin cancer of the foot is caused by any number of these factors as well as unprotected, prolonged UV exposure. Skin cancer of the feet is a dangerous reality because feet are often overlooked during regular medical examinations. In order to best protect yourself and your skin, you should regularly and thoroughly check your feet for possible signs of abnormalities.

Possible abnormalities may include:

• Brown/black vertical line under the toenail
• Pink or red spot/growth
• New spot/growth where a foot injury occurred
• Rapid growing mass on foot (particularly at a site of the previous injury)
• Sores that do not heal or sores that heal and return
• Sores that appear like diabetic ulcers

Types of Foot Skin Cancer:

Basal Skin Carcinoma: This type of cancer typically results from excessive UV exposure. As it does not usually spread beyond the skin it is categorized as a minimally aggressive cancer. This cancer often appears as white bumps/patches that may seep or crust over as an open sore would.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common form of skin cancer of the foot and typically remains localized as a less aggressive form. If left untreated, it has the possibility to become more aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. This form often begins as a small, scale-like bump that may crack or bleed. This form can also appear as many common foot issues such as an ulcer, plantar wart, or fungal infection.

Malignant Melanoma: This form is the deadliest form of foot skin cancer and the key to the survival of this form is early detection. This form can develop in all possible areas of the foot and can commonly appear under toenails. Color appearance can vary from black to brown as well as pink to red.

When to Visit Indy Podiatry:

If you believe you have melanoma, you can use the ABCDs of melanoma to assess yourself. If you meet any of the following criteria, you should contact Indy Podiatry immediately.

Asymmetry: the mole, bump, or patch appears to have two different sides

Borders: border is irregular, undefined, ragged, or scalloped

Color: colors vary in different areas, there are many colors that are unevenly distributed

Diameter: greater than 6mm or the size of a pencil eraser

 

Diagnosis, Treatment, & Prevention:

One of our doctors will assess your possibility of skin cancer through examination and possible biopsy. To perform a biopsy, one of our doctors will obtain a small sample of your lesion and send it to a laboratory for further examination and testing. If your results come back positive for cancer, they will recommend a course of treatment that they deem appropriate. To prevent skin cancer from developing, make sure to limit your sun exposure and apply sunscreen whenever you are outdoors. Good prevention methods also include frequent self-examinations to spot any abnormalities that may arise.

Do you or someone you know have smelly feet? Medically known as bromhidrosis, feet that have an odor are a common year-round problem caused by sweat and wearing the same shoes. The foul smell occurs when excess foot moisture allows common skin bacteria to overgrow. Although anyone can have smelly feet, pregnant women and teenagers are common targets because of hormonal changes. Excessive sweating is called hyperhidrosis (3% of the population), and often times those diagnosed have sweaty palms as well.

To avoid and treat foot odor, you can do the following:

• Wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap, making sure you clean between your toes.
• Dry thoroughly with a towel and apply cornstarch or antifungal powder.
• Wear wicking socks that draw moisture away from your feet (avoid 100% cotton socks).
• Change socks throughout the day.
• Wear shoes that are made of breathable materials, and try not to wear the same pair two days in a row so that they have time to air out.
• Spray antifungal spray in your shoes prior to wearing (we sell a great brand in our office).
• A technique called iontophoresis has been found helpful for at-home use for sweaty feet sufferers.

When to seek professional help

If your feet sweat excessively, seek the help of a podiatrist. According to the US National Library of Medicine, “less than 40 percent of people with excessive sweating seek medical care.” [1] There are many different treatment options including antiperspirants, Botox injections, and oral prescriptions. Good hygiene is key at preventing sweating and odor.

Our doctors at Indy Podiatry can help you control your excessive sweating and end embarrassing odors. Give us a call today at 317-573-4250.

If you suffer from chronic dry feet or cracked heels, you are not alone. According to the 2012 National Foot Health Assessment 20 percent of US adults ages 21 and older have experienced cracked skin on their feet. Women are affected by this condition more than men.

Dry skin is usually not a dangerous condition, but if your skin is cracking and bleeding, it can lead to an infection. This is especially dangerous for anyone with a lowered immune system or diabetes. Symptoms can include red or flaky patches, itchy, peeling or cracked skin. Fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot have similar symptoms, so check for blisters around your toes. If you do have blisters, make sure to use an antifungal medication to clear up the fungal infection.

Dry skin can be caused by the following:

• Age
• Improper fitting shoes
• Athlete’s foot
• Psoriasis, Eczema or other skin conditions
• Thyroid disease
• Diabetes
• Household heat which reduces humidity and leads to drying

The best way to treat dry skin is with the proper ointments and creams. At Indy Podiatry we sell a couple of great, rich emollient creams specifically designed for dry and achy feet. Avoid using lotions, as these often contain alcohol which further dries the skin. Additional helpful tips include:

• Use a pumice stone to exfoliate the dead/dry skin and then apply moisturizing cream
• Wear socks while you sleep after applying a thick cream to your feet for better absorption
• Ensure you are wearing properly fitting shoes, and use orthotics to eliminate friction
• Avoid putting moisturizers between the toes as this can lead to fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot
• Avoid wearing open-backed shoes

If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office today at 317-573-4250 so that we can figure out the best treatment plan for you.

Have you recently discovered a lump or bump on your foot, and are wondering what it could be? Lumps and bumps on the feet can be a serious or a non-serious condition. It’s important to have any lump or bump examined by a podiatrist so that any suspicion of cancer can be eliminated. Bumps can vary in size and location (from the toes all the way to the ankle). You may or may not experience pain or changes in daily activity.  Below you will find a few different common types of lumps/bumps found on the feet and ankles.

Ganglion cysts

A soft, fluid-filled benign (noncancerous) sac found on the tendons and joints. These cysts can be caused by leakage of fluid from the capsule surrounding a joint or tendon. Locations include the top of the foot, near the ankle joint or on the side of the foot. Ganglion cysts do not go away on their own and often return even after drainage. Nonsurgical treatment options include monitoring, shoe modifications, and aspiration followed by an injection.

Plantar fibromas

A fibrous knot in the arch of the foot embedded in the plantar fascia (band of tissue that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot). A plantar fibroma can occur on one or both feet (noncancerous). Fibromas are often not painful. Pain is usually caused by a shoe pushing against the fibroma. Fibromas do not go away without treatment. If there is pain with a fibroma, nonsurgical treatment options include custom orthotics and steroid injections.

Haglund’s Deformity

A bony enlargement on the back of the heel, often caused by inherited foot structures such as high arches, tight Achilles tendon and a tendency to walk on the outside of the heel. Haglund’s Deformity is often referred to as “pump bump” because the rigid backs of pumps can create pressure that aggravates the bony enlargement while walking. Avoid wearing any shoe that has a rigid back (men’s dress shoes, ice skates and heels). Haglund’s Deformity symptoms include a noticeable bump on the back of the heel, pain, swelling, and redness. Nonsurgical treatment is targeted towards reducing inflammation of the bursa and could include oral medication, stretching exercises, heel lifts/pads, shoe modification, physical therapy, and custom orthotic devices.

We can help

Lumps and bumps on the foot tend to not go away on their own. If you have a mysterious lump or bump on your foot, let us put your mind to ease. Please call us today at 317-573-4250 so that we can figure out the best treatment plan for you.

Did you know that women are more vulnerable to foot pain than men? The days of wearing narrow-fitting shoes and sacrificing comfort for style are over. Dr. Higgins has compiled a list of her favorite women’s shoes that are stylish, comfortable and even fit your custom orthotics.

ASICS – ASICS footwear is designed to keep you moving. They offer a variety of shoes for different sports and foot types.

New Balance – New Balance offers shoes made in the United States ranging from casual to athletic. Athleisure in style with a pair of their Fresh Foam sneakers.

Vionic – These women’s shoes offer comfort, support, and style all in one. Their shoes are also the perfect fit for your custom orthotics. Choose from strappy sandals, heels, boots and supportive flats in a variety of patterns and colors.

Brooks – Brooks offers running, track, trail and walking shoes in a wide range of styles that fit your custom orthotics.

Clarks – For 200 years, Clarks has been making innovative, comfortable shoes. Their women’s selection ranges from loafers to boots and heels to sandals—all with support and stability in mind.

Ecco – ECCO shoes come highly rated and also offer a variety of styles. Their insoles are also removable, offering plenty of room for your custom orthotics.

Brands we carry at Indy Podiatry

The following brands are ones we carry in our office, and also have the podiatry seal of approval from all of our doctors.

Dr. Comfort – We have carried Dr. Comfort shoes for a long time because of their comfort, reliability, and variety of different sizes. From comfy casual to supportive dress, Indy Podiatry offers a wide range of styles in office.

Orthofeet – Orthofeet promises pain-free or your money back, and come recommended by podiatrists everywhere. They also come with removable orthotic insoles in every pair of shoes. Check out our extremely comfortable heels!

Apex – Apex brand shoes are designed by foot health experts to provide comfort, support, and style for over 50 years.

If you have any questions about proper shoes or custom orthotics, please call our office today at 317-573-4250 so that one of our knowledgeable podiatrists can help you on your path to pain-free feet and ankles.

Do you:

• Suffer from knee, leg, hip or back pain?
• Run, walk, exercise or play sports?
• Stand for long periods of time?
• Suffer from heel, arch or ball of foot pain?
• Have diabetes?

Custom orthotics might be for you! And this month we want you to get back in the game with our Arch Madness custom orthotics special. During the month of March, get $75 off your first pair of custom orthotics and $30 off your second pair*!

If you have problems with any of the above, one of our doctors can do a complete evaluation to determine where and how your structure and motion deviate from normal. Indy Podiatry is a well-known expert in the area of custom orthotic devices.

*Discount applies to orthotics not covered by an insurance plan.

Have you been looking for the perfect pair of shoes that are great for your feet and also stylish? You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other–our podiatrists have compiled a list of their favorite men’s shoes that are stylish, comfortable and fit your custom orthotics.

Cole Haan Zerogrand Collection –  Cole Haan is known for their innovative shoes, and their men’s Zerogrand collection offers innovative comfort, breathability, and design. They offer a variety of styles including oxfords, trainers and boots.

ECCO -ECCO shoes come highly rated and also offer a variety of styles. Their insoles are also removable, offering plenty of room for your custom orthotics.

Johnston & Murphy (any of their shoes with the removable footbeds) – Johnston & Murphy has been around since 1850 and their shoes come in seemingly endless selections. You can find a wide array of quality dress shoes, sneakers, boots, chukkas or sandals with removable footbeds to accommodate wide feet and/or orthotics.

Brands we carry at Indy Podiatry

The following brands are ones we carry in our office, and also have the podiatry seal of approval from all of our doctors.

Dr. Comfort – We have carried Dr. Comfort shoes for a long time because of their comfort, reliability and variety of different sizes. From comfy casual to supportive dress, Indy Podiatry offers a wide range of styles in office.

Orthofeet – Orthofeet promises pain-free or your money back, and come recommended by podiatrists everywhere. They also come with removable orthotic insoles in every pair of shoes. Our office has recently added Orthofeet styles including athletic, boat shoes and boots.

Apex – Apex brand shoes are designed by foot health experts to provide comfort, support and style for over 50 years.

If you have any questions about proper shoes or custom orthotics, please call our office today at 317-573-4250 so that one of our knowledgeable podiatrists can help you on your path to pain-free feet and ankles.

Did you know that in any given year more than half of all runners incur an injury that forces them to stop running, sometimes for weeks or months? Fortunately, there are many actions you can take that will decrease your risk of injury and allow you to continue running.

Strengthen your core – a strong core is essential to a smooth, efficient running stride. A weak core increases your risk of a running injury. You should devote a minimum of 15 minutes twice each week to a core strengthening program.

Balance hard running with rest days – it is essential that we allow our bodies the opportunity to rest, recover and adapt to increased training. Overtraining by failing to allow adequate rest days will significantly increase your likelihood of developing a running injury.

Stretching is not a warm-up – to prepare your body for running, start by walking or running slowly and gradually increase to your desired pace over a period of several minutes. Jumping into a run at your mid-run pace strains your muscles, tendons, and ligaments and increases your risk of an injury.

Increase your training distances gradually – Adding too much distance too soon may be the single most common cause of developing a running injury. Limit weekly increases in the amount of time you run or the distance you cover, to 5 to 10%. After increasing your distance total for a week or two, allow yourself a week of less running to let your body strengthen and repair. Then resume your 5 to 10% increases.

Cross train – Strengthening your legs with non-impact exercise allows your body to better handle the stresses of running and decreases your injury risk.

Choose the right shoes – Don’t be fooled by shoe fads. Most runners will do best in a neutral shoe (light stability or non-stability). Follow our running shoe guide and replace them every 300 – 400 miles.

Some foot types need special shoe inserts – Unfortunately, many of us are born with foot types that increase the risk of running injuries. For instance, varieties of high arches (pes cavus) or flat feet (pes valgus) put abnormal stresses on the feet and legs when running. We can fabricate a custom shoe insert that will mitigate these abnormal forces and decrease your injury risk. Orthotic devices are also often essential to help recover from certain injuries such as plantar fasciitis.

Get the right shoe fit – Wearing shoes that are too small is very common and unfortunately increases your risk of toe pain and injury. Make sure you have a full thumb’s width between the end of your longest toe and the tip of your shoe when you are standing. Our feet naturally swell as the day goes on so be sure to buy your shoes after running or later in the day.

Vary your training surface – Try to incorporate different running surfaces such as dirt trails and grassy terrain into your exercise regimen instead of just running on hard surfaces. This variation will increase your lower extremity strength, improve your balance and decrease your injury risk.