As people become frail with age, their feet often reflect this decline. Weakness, thinner skin, and poor circulation can make the feet more vulnerable to injury and infection. Balance issues and reduced mobility may lead to falls or pressure points, which can cause sores or joint problems. Even minor foot concerns, like a callus or toenail issue, can become serious in someone who is frail. In many cases, these individuals may not feel pain clearly or may not notice early signs of trouble. Regular foot checks and gentle care are essential to protect skin integrity and maintain mobility. Addressing concerns early helps avoid complications that could reduce independence or lead to hospitalization. If you or someone you care for is experiencing foot problems along with increased frailty, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails develop when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. The condition can happen on either the side, tip or even the base of the toenail. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight shoes, or injury to the toe. In some cases, genetics or fungal infections can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and sometimes pus or drainage if an infection sets in. The affected toe may appear red or tender, and pressure from shoes can increase the pain. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to more serious complications, such as infection or permanent nail damage. A podiatrist can provide effective treatments for ingrown toenails, including trimming or removing the nail, draining any infection, and prescribing antibiotics if necessary. In chronic cases, they may perform a minor procedure to prevent the nail from growing back incorrectly. If you are dealing with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Anterior tibial tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendon that runs along the front of the ankle and connects the shin to the foot. This condition develops when the tendon becomes irritated or overused, often due to repetitive stress from walking, running, or activities that involve frequent ankle movement. Common symptoms include pain along the front of the ankle or shin, swelling, and stiffness, especially during or after activity. The discomfort may worsen when walking uphill or climbing stairs. Risk factors include overuse, sudden increases in activity, improper footwear, flat feet, or weak supporting muscles. Individuals who are active or have biomechanical imbalances may be more prone to developing this condition. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain is not just an adult problem. Children and adolescents often experience discomfort in their feet, which can affect their ability to participate in sports, play, and daily activities. Growth spurts, flat feet, and overuse injuries are common causes. Conditions like Sever’s disease, which involves inflammation at the growth plate in the heel, frequently occur during periods of rapid growth. Wearing improper footwear can also lead to pain, especially if shoes do not provide enough support or cushioning. Ignoring foot pain in young people may result in long-term issues, including changes in walking patterns and posture. Early evaluation and treatment can make a big difference in restoring comfort and preventing more serious problems later. If your child frequently complains of foot pain or you notice limping, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment tailored to their growing feet.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to severe pain and inflammation. This occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or struggles to eliminate it efficiently. Mushrooms are considered harmful for individuals with gout because they contain purines, which break down into uric acid. High purine intake can lead to elevated uric acid levels, triggering painful gout flare-ups. The big toe is often the most affected joint, as uric acid crystals tend to accumulate in cooler areas of the body. This can cause intense swelling, redness, and difficulty walking. Avoiding purine-rich foods, such as mushrooms, can help prevent these painful episodes and support better management of gout symptoms for improved joint health. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition, which may include educating you on dietary restrictions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Charcot foot is a serious condition that affects people with peripheral neuropathy, most commonly those with diabetes. It weakens the bones in the foot, causing them to fracture and dislocate without significant pain. As the condition progresses, the arch collapses, leading to a rocker-bottom type of deformity. Early signs include swelling, redness, and warmth in the foot, often mistaken for infection. If left untreated, Charcot foot can lead to severe deformity, ulceration, and an increased risk of limb loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Offloading the foot with a total contact cast or custom orthotic device helps protect and stabilize the bones during healing. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary. If you have diabetes and notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels and fissures can develop from prolonged dryness, excessive pressure, and underlying health conditions. When the skin on the heels loses moisture and elasticity, deep cracks may form, making walking painful and increasing the risk of infection. Standing for long periods, wearing unsupportive footwear, and exposure to harsh environments can worsen the condition. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and poor circulation can slow healing and lead to complications. If the cracks become deep, bleed, or show signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage, medical attention is necessary. Seeking care from a podiatrist early can prevent further damage and promote healing for healthier, more comfortable feet. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment, including debridement, prescription creams, and specialized footwear recommendations.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Casting for foot and ankle fractures can have unexpected effects on the thigh muscles. When a cast limits movement, the muscles in the upper leg may weaken and shrink over time due to lack of exercise. This muscle change is important because the strength and size of the thigh muscles support overall mobility and balance. One simple method to track these changes is to measure the muscle size near its center. This measurement can show small differences that indicate muscle loss. Recognizing these changes early helps doctors understand how the injury and the cast are affecting the body. It also guides them to suggest exercises or treatments that may help restore muscle strength. If you experience unusual weakness or discomfort in the leg after casting, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for further evaluation and care.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.