3 Signs of a Granuloma  

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A granuloma annulare in Pflugerville, TX is a type of rash that forms on the hands and feet. It’s characterized by a ring pattern and raised bumps along the skin, and it’s often a response to a change in the body. This could be anything from taking a new prescription medication to getting a bug bite to being out in the sun for too long.

It’s not exactly clear what causes this issue, but there are a few symptoms that you can use to identify whether you have it. We’ll look at what they are and why it might help to see a specialist if any of the following sound familiar.

3 Major Symptoms

If you have a granuloma, you might see or experience:

  • Lesions: Localized granulomas occur on the feet and ankles and present as circular or semicircular lesions that can be up to 2” across.
  • Itching: Your rash might be itchy, depending on its severity.
  • Mild pain: It’s rare for pain to develop in a granuloma annulare, though some patients will report it.

Treatments

The most common treatment is an anti-inflammation treatment, which can be administered either via topical solution (e.g., applied directly to the skin) or through an injection. However, there are a number of other potential measures to treat this condition, based on the type and symptoms. For instance, light or freezing therapy may slow the growth of the rash.

Find a Podiatrist in Austin, TX

If you’re looking for a podiatrist in Austin, TX, Jeffery LaMour DPM, PA is here to help. Our staff is here to address any number of conditions, including unexplained bumps or lesions on the skin. Contact us today to learn more about our services in Austin and Pflugerville or to schedule an appointment for a checkup.

 

Can You Get Psoriasis on Your Feet?  

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Psoriasis is an itchy skin condition that’s caused by an unusual amount of skin-cell buildup. This happens because skin cells multiply up to 10 times faster than normal in patients who have psoriasis. Most people think of areas such as the scalp, elbows, and knees when they hear the term “psoriasis.” In reality, however, this uncomfortable condition can affect most parts of your body, including your feet. If your feet have become unusually red, dry, or itchy, a visit to your podiatrist in Austin, TX, may bring much-needed relief.

What Does Psoriasis Look Like?

There are different types of psoriasis, but plaque psoriasis is the most common. Symptoms may include:

  • Patches of red or silver-colored skin
  • Itching
  • Cracking
  • Bleeding
  • Discoloration of the fingernails and toenails
  • Scales or crust on the scalp

Other types of psoriasis may cause symptoms such as pustules on the soles of the feet, small, red spots on the limbs and torso, shiny, red lesions in the folds of skin in the armpits or groin or under the breasts, and fiery redness on some areas of the skin.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Doctors still aren’t completely sure what causes psoriasis, but they do know that it’s related to the body’s immune system. They know flare-ups are often triggered by events such as strep infections or emotional stress. And they know that this condition tends to run in families.

Relief for Psoriasis in Austin, TX

If you’ve recently noticed the uncomfortable signs of psoriasis on your feet in the Austin or Pflugerville areas of Texas, call Dr. Jeffery W. Lamour today. Dr. Jeff Lamour is an experienced and professional podiatrist who can help you find relief. Early diagnosis of your condition means a better outcome. Call today to set up a convenient consultation.

 

 

Is Bunion Surgery Worth It?  

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Bunion surgery is one of the treatment options that your podiatrist has available in order to take care of your bunions. Although bunion surgery is very common and bunions are very treatable, many people shy away, thinking that they might as well just go on living with their bunion pain. But if you’ve ever considered bunion surgery, you should be aware of the benefits you could reap.

Benefits of Bunion Surgery

The benefits of Austin, TX bunion surgery alone make it worthwhile. Although there is a recovery period, during which time you will need to limit use of your foot, you’ll be able to enjoy many benefits of this procedure when you’re fully recovered.

Ability to Keep Fit

As a bunion sufferer, you know how painful it can be to exercise on foot. Even finding a comfortable pair of athletic shoes is a huge challenge. After bunion surgery, it will be much easier to keep fit through exercise, since you won’t be experiencing the same level of discomfort as before surgery.

Reduction or Elimination of Pain

Bunions can be extremely painful. But patients who undergo bunion surgery report reduction or total elimination of pain associated with bunions. Your podiatrist can’t make any guarantees, but it’s highly likely that your bunion pain will be a thing of the past.

More Self-Confidence

Another benefit of having bunion surgery is the increase in self-confidence. Imagine being able to walk into work or social gatherings in fashionable shoes (even if they aren’t high heels), instead of orthopedic shoes you only wore because of your bunions! Simply being able to walk without feeling like you have a hidden problem will help you feel more at ease whenever you leave the house.

If you’d like to learn more about bunion surgery and why it’s definitely worth it, book an appointment with your Austin, TX podiatrist today!

 

Tips for Treating Calluses at Home and When To Call a Podiatrist

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While performing weight-bearing activities (e.g., walking), the feet are exposed to a tremendous amount of friction and pressure. Certain areas of the foot bear more weight than others do, which makes these areas susceptible to the development of calluses. At his offices in Pflugerville and Austin, Texas, podiatrist Dr. Jeffery LaMour treats calluses.

What Is a Callus?

In response to the stresses placed on the foot, as a protective measure, the body thickens the skin. This thickened skin is referred to as a callus.

Which Areas of the Foot Are More Likely To Develop Calluses?

Most calluses develop on the heel and ball of the foot.

Tips for Treating Calluses at Home

If the callus recently developed, is on the smaller side and not very thick, try the treatment below.

Callus treatment at home:

  1. Soak the foot in warm water until the callus feels soft. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
  2. Prevent the likelihood of developing an infection by using a brand-new pumice stone or an unused nail file to gently rub off some of the softened callus.
  3. Cover the treatment area with an over-the-counter patch for calluses. If the callus is too large for the patch to cover, apply a callus-treatment cream to the area, cover with a piece of gauze and put on a clean white sock.
  4. The patch (or gauze and sock) can remain in place for up to 72 hours.
  5. After removing the patch, repeat the treatment above.

If, after treating it for 2 weeks, the callus remains, it is time to contact Dr. Jeffery LaMour. Dr. LaMour is an experienced podiatrist, with offices in Austin and Pflugerville, Texas.

Who Should Avoid Callus Removal at Home?

Generally, a callus can be removed at home. However, some people should bypass at-home removal and contact an Austin or Pflugerville, Texas, podiatrist instead. These individuals are those with conditions or symptoms that make them more likely to develop an infection. People with poor circulation in their lower extremities and individuals who are immunosuppressed (e.g., cancer patients, transplant recipients) should seek treatment from a podiatrist. In addition, an individual who experiences numbness or tingling in the feet needs to seek professional treatment (e.g., people who have diabetic neuropathy).

Why Would Someone Need Orthopedic Surgery To Treat Calluses?

Individuals who have underlying bone abnormalities contributing to their callus development may need to have orthopedic surgery.

If you are in the Austin or Pflugerville, Texas, area, and you would like an experienced podiatrist to treat your calluses, contact Dr. Jeffery LaMour today at (512) 451-3668 to schedule a consultation at his Austin or Pflugerville, Texas, podiatrist office.