Lake Mendocino Podiatry: Matthew McQuaid, DPM

Symptoms and Causes of Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis affects millions of people worldwide and is primarily found in active adults from 25 to 65 years old. Plantar fasciitis arises from the overstretching of the plantar fascia, a fibrous band of tissue on the sole of the foot that supports the arch. The major symptoms of inflammation....

Diabetes and Wound Healing Diabetic wound care is a critical aspect of managing diabetes-related complications, particularly concerning foot health. Diabetes can affect wound healing due to vascular and neuropathic issues that result from high blood sugar levels. Reduced circulation and oxygenation in tissues, coupled with ne...

Causes and Managing of Flat Feet in Children Flat feet, medically termed pes planus, is a common condition among children, indicated by a lack of arch in the foot. While many children naturally outgrow flat feet as they develop, some may experience persistent symptoms that warrant attention. The causes of flat feet in children vary, including....

Facts About Ankle Sprains and Skateboarding Skateboarding is an exhilarating activity that combines skill, balance, and adrenaline. However, it also comes with its fair share of risks, including the potential for ankle injuries. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle joint are overstretched or torn, often due to sudden tw...

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Painful Runner's Toe Runner’s toe, also known as black toenail or jogger's toe, is a common condition among runners and athletes. It occurs when the toes repeatedly hit the front of the shoe, causing trauma to the toenail bed. This trauma can lead to bleeding under the nail, resulting in discoloration that looks b...

Symptoms of Arthritis in the Foot Symptoms associated with arthritis in the foot can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. Persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling in the foot and ankle joints are all symptoms of arthritis. They are usually more noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Some patients may...

How Custom Orthotics Can Help Arthritis Pain Arthritis, whether rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, can significantly impair one's quality of life, particularly when it affects the feet. Constant foot pain can hinder mobility, limit activities, and lead to physical and emotional challenges. However, custom-made orthotics can help those grappling...

Diabetic Wound Care Diabetic foot ulcers are serious complications of diabetes, occurring due to poor circulation, nerve damage, and reduced immune function. High blood sugar levels can impair blood flow and sensation in the feet, leading to delayed wound healing and increased vulnerability to infections. Left untreate...

What is Buerger’s Disease? Buerger's disease is a vascular condition primarily affecting the feet and hands, characterized by inflammation and clotting of small and medium-sized arteries and veins. It is strongly associated with smoking, with to***co use being a significant risk factor. Symptoms of Buerger's disease,....

Safeguarding Your Feet and Home Preventing slips, trips, and falls is essential for avoiding injuries, including those that are foot-related. Falls account for nearly one-third of non-fatal injuries in the United States, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks. In the home, maintaining good housekeeping...

Common Foot Conditions Foot pain affects people of all ages and lifestyles. Among those who suffer most are individuals who spend long hours standing or walking, such as healthcare professionals, retail workers, and athletes. Older people are also more prone to developing foot conditions. Common problems leading to foot p...

Reasons to Visit a Podiatrist Optimal foot health is important for maintaining overall well-being, and a podiatrist is instrumental in achieving this goal. This type of foot specialist will conduct a comprehensive review of your medical history, followed by a thorough examination to diagnose the cause of your foot, toe, or ankle...

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked Diabetic foot screening is a must for good foot health.

Our Feet Deserve Care Taking care of your feet daily is essential due to their pivotal role in your overall health and well-being. Our feet support your body's weight, facilitate mobility, and enable you to carry out daily activities. Neglecting foot care over time can result in various issues, including calluses, co...

Understanding Poor Circulation in the Feet Poor circulation in the feet occurs when blood flow to the lower extremities is restricted or inadequate, leading to various symptoms and potential complications. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including peripheral artery disease, PAD, atherosclerosis, diabetes, obesity, and smoki...

Common Symptoms and Causes of Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel and the bottom of the foot, particularly during the first steps in the morning. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or strained. The primary symptom is sharp, stabbing p...

Managing Injuries From Playing Soccer The sport of soccer demands rigorous physical activity that put players at risk of injuries, particularly injuries affecting the lower extremities. Ankle and foot injuries, including sprains, strains, and fractures, are common among soccer players due to the frequent pivoting, cutting, and sudden ch...

It's Time for Beautiful Feet You don't have to suffer from toenail fungus.

When a Total Contact Cast Is Needed For people battling diabetic foot ulcers, a total contact cast can be a game-changer in the healing process. These casts, meticulously crafted to fit snugly around the foot and lower leg, help to distribute weight evenly across the sole, allowing for effective ulcer management and healing. Diabetes....

Trim Properly to Avoid Ingrown Toenails Improper toenail trimming is a common culprit behind ingrown toenails, a painful condition that occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. The risk of ingrown toenails increases when toenails are trimmed improperly. This includes when toenails are cut too short, rounded at the corners, or...

Essential Insights Into Morton's Neuroma Morton's neuroma, a nerve disorder affecting the feet, is a condition that demands attention and understanding. This ailment is characterized by the thickening of tissues around the nerves that lead to the toes, and it often occurs between the third and fourth toes. Contrary to common belief, it...

The Link Between Increased Body Mass and Foot Discomfort Exploring the correlation between elevated body mass and foot pain unveils a compelling relationship. Excess weight places additional stress on the feet, leading to discomfort and various conditions. The arches, heels, and joints bear the brunt of this burden, potentially resulting in ailments such....

Causes and Diagnostic Avenues for Gout Gout, a form of arthritis, develops when uric acid accumulates in the joints, leading to inflammation and intense pain. The primary cause is an overproduction or underexcretion of uric acid, resulting in crystalline deposits that settle in the joints. Dietary factors, such as excessive consumption o...

Heel Pain Can Be Treated! You don't have to live with heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot condition, unfolds as a result of inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that spans the bottom of the foot. This inflammation leads to symptoms that are distinctive yet often underestimated. A primary symptom is heel pain, particularly felt dur...

Flip Flops May Cause Possible Harm to the Feet While flip flops may be a staple of warm weather wardrobes, they pose a significant risk to the health of our feet. These flimsy sandals lack proper arch support and cushioning, exposing our feet to a host of issues. The flat, thin soles fail to absorb shock, leading to increased pressure on the hee...

Strategies to Prevent Falls in Every Room at Home Creating a safe environment within each room of your house is vital to preventing falls and promoting overall well-being. In the bathroom, install non-slip mats and grab bars near the shower and toilet to enhance stability. Keep pathways clear in the living room, securing loose rugs and removing clu...

Poor Circulation and Infants Poor Circulation

Simple Steps for Everyday Foot Care Many people connect that the quality of their life is based on how good their feet feel. They are the foundation of the body, and completing daily activities may be difficult with aching feet. Additionally, poor foot health may limit exercise completely, or limit the amount of time spent practicing....