September 2026
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Blisters on the Feet
Blisters are a common ailment of people who wear shoes that are either too tight or rub against the feet in an uncomfortable way. Knowing the basics of blisters is important for understanding how they are formed and what treatments should be used for them.
A blister on the foot, or any other part of the body, is a small pocket that is filled with fluid. It usually forms on the upper layer of the skin because these layers are loose enough to allow a blister to form. The most common fluid in a blister is just a clear, watery-like fluid that usually isn’t cause for concern. However, blisters can fill up with blood if they are deep enough and pus if they have become infected with bacteria.
Blisters almost always form on the feet due to shoes rubbing up against the foot, where the friction causes blisters. These can occur after you have walked for a long period of time or when your shoes do not fit you properly. Your feet are also more prone to blisters if they are moist, so keeping them dry and clean is one preventative step you can take.
Preventing infection should be the number one concern when treating blisters, as well as relieving the pain they can cause. Using a bandage to cover up the blister will help it heal and prevent bacteria from entering it. New skin will form under the blister and eventually cause it to pop. You can also take a sterilized pin and try to pop it yourself.
If the blister is filled with pus or blood, seeking treatment from a doctor is ideal. Antibiotics may need to be taken in order to completely eliminate the bacteria inside the blister. See a doctor to have an antibiotic prescribed.
The best way to treat blisters is to prevent them all together. Keeping your feet dry and making sure that your shoes fit properly are just two of the steps you can take to prevent blisters. Shoes that are too tight or shoes that are too loose and allow your feet to slide in them will cause blisters. Applying a bandage to an area where you think a blister is about to form is another way you can prevent them.
Diabetic Foot Blisters and Why Early Care Matters
A diabetic foot blister is a fluid-filled area that develops on the skin of the foot. A blister may form after friction from shoes, prolonged walking, or minor trauma. It can appear as a raised, smooth area filled with clear fluid. People with diabetes may be more likely to develop blisters because nerve damage, poor circulation, and repeated pressure can reduce the ability to notice irritation. Some diabetic foot blisters develop without an obvious injury and may occur on the toes, soles, or sides of the feet.
Diabetic foot blisters can look like small bubbles beneath the skin. The surrounding area may become red, swollen, or irritated. However, diabetic neuropathy can reduce sensation, so a person may not feel significant pain. Risk factors include poorly fitting footwear, reduced sensation, and circulation problems. High blood sugar can also interfere with normal wound healing. A blister that becomes infected may produce increasing redness, warmth, or an unpleasant odor. These changes require prompt medical attention because foot infections can become serious.
A podiatrist will examine the blister and surrounding skin to determine its condition. The podiatrist may check circulation, sensation, and signs of infection. Care may include protecting the area from pressure, keeping the skin clean, and using appropriate dressings. The podiatrist may also recommend footwear changes and monitor healing closely. If infection is present, additional medical treatment may be necessary. A podiatrist can also identify underlying problems that increase the chance of another blister.
Do not pop or cut open a diabetic foot blister without professional guidance. Damaging the protective skin can increase the risk of infection and delayed healing. Prompt attention can help protect healthy tissue and lower the risk of complications. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot blister, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah 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 one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot and Ankle Surgery
When conservative, noninvasive methods prove ineffective, surgery may be selected as the next course of action for the treatment of your foot or ankle condition. A wide number of foot and ankle surgical procedures exist, and it is up to your podiatrist to determine which intervention will be most appropriate and helpful for your case. Some surgical procedures include bunion surgery, fusion, hammertoe surgery, heel spur surgery, metatarsal surgery, nail surgery, neuroma surgery, reconstructive surgery, skin surgery, and tendon surgery. Typically, surgery is turned to as a definitive way to alleviate excessive pain or discomfort and to return your foot to full mobility.
Regardless of the location on the body, all surgical procedures require preoperative testing and examination to ensure the surgery’s success and preferred outcome. A review of your medical history and medical conditions will take place, as will an evaluation of any current diseases, illnesses, allergies, and medications. Tests such as blood studies, urinalyses, EKG, X-rays, and blood flow studies may be ordered. Because the procedure involves the foot and/or ankle, the structures of your feet while walking may also be observed by your podiatrist.
Care post-surgery will depend on the type of surgical procedure performed. Typically, all postoperative care involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation. To improve and ensure a safe recovery, your foot and ankle surgeon may also employ the use of bandages, splints, surgical shoes, casts, crutches, or canes. He will also determine if and when you can bear weight. A timely and thorough recovery is a priority for both you and your podiatrist, and carefully following postoperative instructions can help achieve this.
When Foot Surgery May Be Needed
Foot surgery may be considered when a painful foot problem does not improve with more conservative medical treatments. Different procedures are available because foot conditions can affect bones, joints, or soft tissues in different ways. For example, bunion surgery may be recommended when severe pain makes walking or wearing closed shoes difficult. The goal is to realign the joint and reduce pain. Surgery may also be used for hammertoes, which cause a toe to bend abnormally and may become painful when wearing shoes. The exact procedure depends on the problem and how severely it affects daily movement.
Other types of foot surgery address pain or structural problems in different areas of the foot and ankle. Fusion surgery may be performed for arthritis when damaged cartilage allows bones to rub against each other. The procedure joins certain bones together to reduce painful movement. Heel surgery may involve releasing part of the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue connecting the toes to the heel bone. Surgery can also address damaged or poorly functioning tendons. Depending on the problem, a tendon may be shortened, lengthened, or moved to improve foot or ankle movement.
A podiatrist can evaluate ongoing foot pain and determine whether surgery may be an appropriate treatment option. The evaluation considers the location of the problem, its effect on mobility, and the specific structures involved. A podiatrist can explain available surgical procedures and help determine which approach best fits the patient's condition. Foot surgery may be considered for problems involving bunions, painful joints, or other structural concerns when earlier medical treatments have not provided enough relief. The purpose of treatment includes reducing pain and improving movement so daily activities become easier. If persistent foot pain or a structural problem is interfering with your ability to walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom Orthotics For Ankle Stability
Step with assurance, thanks to enhanced ankle stability from orthotics! If you're active and on the move, Custom Orthotics are your ally for stronger, steadier ankles. They align your foot and ankle, reducing the risk of sprains and offering solid support for every stride. Don’t let instability hold you back. Try Custom Orthotics from our office, and discover unshakable confidence in every step!
Treating Toenail Fungus
Fungal infection of the toenail, or onychomycosis, typically appears as a gradual change in a toenail’s texture and color that involves brittleness and darkening. The fungal infection itself occurs beneath the surface of the nail. Aside from discoloration, other symptoms include the collection of debris beneath the nail plate, white marks on the nail plate, and a foul odor emanating from the nail. If ignored, the infection can spread into other nails and the skin; in severe cases, it can hinder one’s ability to work or walk.
The toenails are particularly vulnerable to contracting infection in moist environments where people are likely to be walking barefoot, such as around swimming pools, public showers, and locker rooms. Fungal infection may also be more likely to occur in nail beds that have been injured, and sufferers of chronic diseases such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immunodeficiency conditions are particularly prone to developing fungal nails.
Fungal nails can be primarily prevented by practicing proper hygiene and regularly examining the feet and toes. Carefully washing the feet with soap and water and thoroughly drying the feet afterwards are essential. Other tips include wearing shower shoes in public areas, changing shoes and socks daily, keeping toenails clipped at a short length, wearing breathable shoes that fit properly, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and disinfecting home pedicure tools and instruments used to cut nails.
Fungal nail treatment may vary between patients and the severity of the condition. Your podiatrist may suggest a daily routine of cleansing that spans over a period of time to ease mild infections. Over-the-counter or prescription antifungal agents may also be prescribed, including topical and/or oral medications. Debridement, or the removal of diseased nail matter and debris, may also be performed. In more severe cases, surgical treatment may be needed. In some instances, the temporary removal of the fungal nail allows for the direct application of a topical antifungal to the nail bed. In other cases, a chronically painful fungal nail that has not responded to other treatments may be permanently removed; this allows the infection to be cured and avoids the growth of a deformed nail.
Warning Signs of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that can change the appearance and condition of one or more toenails. The infection develops slowly, so early changes may be easy to overlook. Symptoms can include nail discoloration, thickening, and buildup beneath the nail. As the condition progresses, shoes may feel uncomfortable because the affected nail becomes thicker. Pain can develop when pressure reaches the nail or surrounding tissue.
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or materials. Walking barefoot in shared wet areas can increase exposure. Risk factors include sweaty feet, tight footwear, and a history of fungal skin infections. People with slower nail growth may also have a greater chance of developing persistent changes. Recognizing these factors can encourage attention when nail appearance changes.
Toenail fungus can cause more than cosmetic concerns. Disfigurement may make nails look discolored, cloudy, or irregular. Brittle pieces may break away, while debris can collect beneath the nail. Discomfort may make wearing shoes unpleasant, and pain can occur when the nail presses against the shoe. A podiatrist evaluates the nail, surrounding skin, and symptoms. Lab tests may be used because psoriasis, trauma, and other nail disorders can resemble fungal infection.
A podiatrist creates treatment based on the infection and the condition of the nail. Care may include trimming or thinning the nail, or applying topical antifungal medication, when appropriate. Patients can support recovery by keeping feet dry and changing damp socks. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor new nail growth and treatment response overall. Nail improvement takes time because toenails grow slowly. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
For more information about treatment, contact the podiatrists of Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Sole Marketing Supporting Our Feet
The feet form the base of the body’s structure, and proper support is essential for overall comfort and movement. Custom orthotics are designed to give the feet the stability and alignment they need to function at their best. Each pair is created specifically for the shape and movement of an individual’s feet, ensuring that every step is supported and balanced. This personalized fit helps prevent the strain and fatigue that can develop when the feet are not properly aligned.
When the feet lack adequate support, other parts of the body often compensate, leading to pain in the knees, hips, or lower back. Custom orthotics help correct these imbalances by evenly distributing weight and guiding the feet to move naturally. Over time, they can improve posture, reduce discomfort, and make walking or standing more comfortable throughout the day.
Whether used for daily wear, work, or sports, custom orthotics provide consistent support that benefits the entire body.
Use of Custom Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis
If you are attempting to manage heel pain, such as from plantar fasciitis or heel spurs, custom orthotics may help you. Plantar fasciitis, resulting from strain on the plantar fascia, is notably painful and can stem from an inherent poor foot structure and function. Custom orthotics cater to these unique foot structures, promoting better function, supporting the foot's natural arch, and alleviating undue strain. It has been observed that those with high-arched feet, which inherently bear a lack of shock absorption, are more prone to plantar fasciitis. This lack of cushioning amplifies tension on the plantar fascia, especially around the heel. Custom orthotics target these very issues, adjusting foot mechanics to provide relief. While prefabricated supports can offer general comfort, they may fall short in addressing specific needs, especially for those individuals with high arches. If you have heel or foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if wearing custom-made orthotics can help to restore comfort.
Custom orthotics are often an effective solution for people experiencing heel pain, offering both comfort and correction for the underlying causes of discomfort. Heel pain commonly develops when the natural support of the foot becomes strained or imbalanced, leading to inflammation and irritation in the heel area. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or flat feet can all contribute to chronic heel pain that worsens with walking or standing. Custom orthotics are designed to fit the exact shape of your foot, providing the support and alignment necessary to reduce stress on the heel and surrounding tissues.
By redistributing pressure and improving overall foot mechanics, custom orthotics allow the heel to function more efficiently during movement. They cushion each step, absorb shock, and correct abnormal gait patterns that may be contributing to pain. Over time, this consistent support can ease inflammation, protect against re-injury, and enhance comfort during both daily and athletic activities.
Unlike prefabricated insoles, custom orthotics are created from a detailed evaluation that may include digital scans or molds of your feet. This ensures a precise and individualized fit that addresses your specific condition. They can be used in various types of footwear, from athletic shoes to dress styles, making them a versatile option for ongoing relief.
If heel pain is limiting your comfort or activity level, it is suggested that you call our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA .
