Podiatrist - Perry Hall / White Marsh
5009 Honeygo Center Drive
Suite 213
Perry Hall, MD 21128
(410) 529-4141
My Blog
Posts for: September, 2010
The feet have more sweat glands than any other part of the body, which means they have the ability to sweat profusely. With your feet encased in your shoes all day and the sweat unable to evaporate, bacteria will begin to grow rapidly. The presence of certain bacteria begins to break down the sweat, generating an unpleasant odor from the direction of your feet. Other factors can contribute to increased perspiration including anxiety, hormonal changes, medications and various skin conditions.
Foot odor is a common problem, especially among those who perspire excessively, but it can be both embarrassing and physically uncomfortable. If you suffer from foot odor, rest assured that simple lifestyle changes and improved personal hygiene can help reduce and eliminate the smell.
Easy Ways to Eliminate Foot Odor
Since most foot odor is caused from excess sweat and the growth of odor-causing bacteria, it's relatively easy to control and reduce foot odor on your own. Start by taking the following preventative steps:
- Keep your feet clean by washing them with an antibacterial soap on a regular basis to minimize bacteria.
- Keep feet dry as moisture enables the growth of bacteria.
- Alternate shoes and avoid wearing the same pair for multiple days in a row.
- Choose open shoes such as sandals when possible, allowing air onto the feet which evaporates sweat and slows the growth of bacteria.
- Wear moisture wicking synthetic socks which wisks away moisture from the skin. Avoid cotton socks as they only absorb moisture which stays against the skin, keeping the skin wet or damp.
- Apply foot sprays and powders to the feet. Ask Edward Orman, DPM for recommended products.
- Disinfect, wash and discard foul smelling shoes as necessary.
The causes of foot odor are typically not harmful to your health, but do create an environment for the growth of fungus and bacteria. It's not unusual for infections such as toenail fungus and athlete's foot to develop as a result.
When improving your foot hygiene doesn't help reduce the smell, you may need to visit Edward Orman, DPM, as persistent foot odor can indicate an infection or a severe case of hereditary sweating. In these cases, a prescription ointment may be required to treat the problem. Visit our Honeygo MD office and we'll work with you to determine the cause and most effective treatment for your condition.
Corns and calluses are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop in response to your body's natural defense to repeated pressure or friction. While neither condition presents a long-term or serious health risk, they can be painful, irritating and unattractive.
Identifying a Corn or Callus
Corns and calluses are similar in nature, but differ in size and location. Corns are smaller than calluses and usually have a hard, thickened center surrounded by red, inflamed skin. They typically develop on the tops and sides of your toes and can be painful when touched. Calluses generally develop on your heels and balls of your feet. They vary in size and shape, although almost always larger than corns.
For most people who develop calluses or corns, eliminating the source of pressure is usually enough to make the thickened skin disappear. Edward Orman, DPM recommends the following for treating corns and calluses:
- Wear comfortable shoes and socks. When footwear fits properly, there is less opportunity for friction and rubbing to occur.
- Soak your feet in warm, soapy water to help remove corns and calluses. Rub the thickened skin with a pumice stone to remove toughened layers more easily.
- Keeping your feet moisturized with foot cream or lotion will help improve the quality of your skin and rid your feet from calluses or corns.
When to Seek Care from Edward Orman, DPM
When corns and calluses don't respond to conservative care, contact our [location] office for a careful evaluation. We can investigate the possible causes of your corn or callus, safely remove the thick, hardened area of skin, and recommend appropriate footwear and treatment, including padding and inserts. Never attempt to cut away a corn or callus on your own, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation. Instead, seek advice from Edward Orman, DPM for careful removal and proper care.
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- Athlete's Foot (1)
- Bone Spurs (1)
- Bunions (1)
- Corns and Calluses (1)
- Foot Odor (1)
- Aching Feet (1)
- Flat Feet (1)
- Foot Health for Runners (1)
- Growing Pains (1)
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- Plantar Fasciitis (1)
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- Properly Fitting Shoes (1)
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- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (1)
- Toenail Fungus (1)
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