Plantar warts are small growths that appear on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, entering through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. They often develop on weight-bearing areas such as the heel or ball of the foot, causing discomfort or pain when standing or walking. Plantar warts may look like rough, grainy bumps with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. The skin around the wart can become thickened or callused, making it difficult to see the wart clearly. These warts can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces like locker rooms and showers. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar warts through a physical examination and may use specialized tools to distinguish them from corns or calluses. Treatment options include topical medications or minor procedures to remove the wart. If you are dealing with plantar warts it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to safely and effectively treat the condition.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Corns are a common foot problem that develop from repeated pressure or friction, often caused by ill-fitting shoes or abnormal walking patterns. They usually appear as small, thickened areas of skin that may be hard and dry or soft and rubbery, often forming on the tops and sides of toes or between them. Corns can feel tender or painful when pressed, making walking uncomfortable. The surrounding skin may appear inflamed, and the center can look yellow or translucent. A podiatrist can help by accurately diagnosing the type of corn and identifying any underlying causes, such as foot deformities or gait issues. Treatment options include professional removal of thickened skin, advice on proper footwear, prescribing custom orthotic inserts to redistribute pressure, and guidance on foot care to prevent recurrence. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist if you experience discomfort or notice changes in your feet.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Swelling in the ankles and feet is a common part of pregnancy, especially in the later months when the body holds more fluid and the growing uterus places extra pressure on blood vessels. While mild puffiness is normal, noticeable or uneven swelling can signal that circulation is being compromised. Standing for long periods of time, warm weather, and wearing tight shoes can all make swelling worse. A podiatrist can evaluate whether the swelling is typical or related to another condition, and may recommend gentle movement, proper footwear, or custom orthotics to improve comfort and circulation. Caring for your feet during pregnancy not only eases daily strain but also supports balance and stability as your body changes. If swelling becomes painful, persistent, or is accompanied by redness or discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for assessment and appropriate care.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Toe pain can arise from several common conditions that affect comfort and mobility. Bunions occur when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged and at the top of the toe leans toward the smaller toes, resulting in soreness and swelling. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup that triggers sudden, intense pain and redness, often in the big toe. An ingrown toenail develops when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing tenderness and possible infection. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of toe pain through examination, imaging, and lab testing, offering treatments such as medication, custom orthotics, or performing minor procedures. If you have persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose what is going on, and guide you toward effective treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.