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Tuesday, 11 November 2025 00:00

Warm or hot feet can be uncomfortable and may signal an underlying issue. Common causes include long hours of standing or walking, wearing shoes that do not allow airflow, or having a medical condition that affects circulation. Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection, can also cause heat, itching, and burning sensations. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in B vitamins, may contribute to nerve irritation, while peripheral neuropathy related to diabetes or other conditions can cause persistent warmth or burning pain. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation to identify the cause, treat infections, manage nerve conditions, and recommend proper footwear. If your feet have become unusually warm or hot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor 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 office located in Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Sunday, 09 November 2025 00:00

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 04 November 2025 00:00

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by stubbing it hard, dropping something heavy on it, or sustaining a sports injury. In many cases both bruising and breaking result in pain and swelling. However, a broken toe typically causes sharper pain, possible deformity, and trouble walking, whereas bruising usually improves with rest and time. Proper diagnosis is important to prevent long-term problems, such as stiffness or misalignment. A podiatrist can confirm the injury with X-rays and provide treatment that  includes splinting, taping, or special footwear for protection. Do not ignore persistent pain or swelling. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Stephen Petrofsky from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

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Tuesday, 28 October 2025 00:00

While most adolescent foot pain results from sports injuries or overuse, some cases point to a less common cause known as Mueller-Weiss syndrome. This condition involves the gradual breakdown of the navicular bone in the midfoot, leading to aching, swelling, and stiffness that worsens with activity. It often goes unnoticed until walking becomes difficult, or the foot begins to change shape. Because symptoms can mimic more common conditions, proper imaging and evaluation are essential for diagnosis. Early treatment focuses on reducing pressure with custom orthotics and activity changes, while advanced cases may require surgical correction. Persistent midfoot pain should never be ignored. If you or your child  is struggling with unexplained discomfort or limited movement in the foot, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can identify the cause and provide the right care to restore strength and mobility safely.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Stephen Petrofsky of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

  • Freiberg’s disease
  • Kohler’s disease
  • Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

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