
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often developing between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or public locker rooms. Causes include prolonged dampness, poor foot hygiene, and walking barefoot in public places. Symptoms include itching and burning between the toes, redness, foul odor, a scaly rash, and sometimes painful blisters. If left untreated, it can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, recommend anti-fungal treatments, and provide guidance on preventing recurrence. For professional care and lasting relief from athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
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 one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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:
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:
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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ticklish feet are a common sensation that can make some people laugh uncontrollably, while others may find it uncomfortable. The sensitivity in the feet is due to the presence of approximately 8,000 nerve endings that respond to various stimuli. The sensation of tickling can be broken down into two types, which are known as knismesis and gargalesis. Knismesis refers to a light, often gentle touch that can cause itching or mild tickling sensations, while gargalesis is a more intense form of tickling that often results in laughter and can trigger an involuntary response. People vary in their sensitivity to tickling, as factors such as genetic makeup, nervous system sensitivity, and psychological aspects play a role. The feet are particularly sensitive due to their high concentration of nerve endings, which makes them more susceptible to ticklish sensations when touched or stimulated. Ticklish feet can be bothersome while having pedicures performed or getting foot massages. It may also indicate diabetes. If you have particularly sensitive feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can educate you on this condition.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. 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:
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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As we grow older, toenails often become thicker, harder, and more difficult to trim. Seniors may also face issues such as curved nails, brittle nails, or fungal infections that make routine care more challenging. Limited flexibility or poor vision can add to the problem, increasing the risk of cutting nails too short, or leaving edges that can cause discomfort. Proper toenail care begins with trimming the nails straight across and smoothing sharp edges with a file to prevent them from growing into the skin. Keeping feet clean and dry helps reduce the chance of infection, while wearing well-fitted shoes prevents pressure on the nails. For those individuals with diabetes, circulation problems, or painful nail conditions, professional care is especially important. A podiatrist can safely manage nail health and prevent complications. If toenail care has become difficult or painful, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects the appearance and health of the toenails. It often begins as a white or yellow spot under the nail and can spread deeper, causing the nail to thicken and become discolored, brittle, or distorted in shape. In some cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed and emit an unpleasant odor. It may feel uncomfortable or painful, especially when wearing shoes. Causes include exposure to warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms or public showers, wearing sweaty shoes, nail injuries, or having a weakened immune system. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus through a physical exam and lab testing. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medications or removing the affected nail. Early treatment improves results and helps prevent the infection from spreading. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist at the first sign of toenail changes or discomfort.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.