Foot Infections Treatment Specialist in Walnut Creek, CA
Foot infections can be caused by various microorganisms that can affect different parts of the foot, such as the skin, nails, or deeper tissues. Foot infections can vary widely in severity and type, but with proper attention and care from Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, you can maintain healthy feet and an active lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with a simple blister or a more complex condition, Dr. John W. Scivally, DPM, and Dr. Robin K. Lie, DPM, are here to provide expert care tailored to your needs. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2227 Olympic Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94595.


Table of Contents:
What does a foot infection look like?
How do I know if I have a bacterial infection in my feet?
What happens if a foot infection goes untreated?
Foot infections can arise from various causes, and early identification is essential to prevent complications. Here are key signs and symptoms to watch for:
• Redness and Inflammation: If you notice redness that spreads or intensifies, it could be a sign of infection. The affected area might also feel warm, indicating inflammation.
• Swelling: Swollen, puffy feet with shiny skin may suggest an underlying infection. Swelling can impede mobility and comfort.
• Pain and Discomfort: Pain can range from mild to severe, especially when walking or applying pressure. Persistent pain should be evaluated by a professional.
• Tenderness: Even without pressure, an infected area may feel tender, making daily activities uncomfortable.
• Pus and Drainage: Bacterial infections, like those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, often produce pus or cloudy fluid, sometimes with a foul odor. This requires prompt medical attention.
• Skin Changes and Blisters: Watch for cracking, peeling, or dry skin. Blisters or sores may develop, which can worsen the infection if not treated.
• Itchiness and Rash: Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, commonly cause dry, scaly, and itchy skin, often starting between the toes.
• Systemic Symptoms: More severe infections, like cellulitis, might cause fever and chills. Discoloration ranging from red to purple or black could indicate serious conditions like necrotizing fasciitis or gangrene, needing immediate care.
Recognizing the early signs of a bacterial infection is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment. Common indicators include:
Skin Changes:
• Spreading or intensifying redness
• Swelling with warmth or heat
• Pain or tenderness, especially during movement
• Development of blisters, sores, or noticeable cracking and peeling
Drainage:
• Pus or other fluid discharge
• Clear or cloudy fluid from wounds
• Thick, yellow, or green pus accompanied by foul odor
Other Symptoms:
• Fever or chills indicating a systemic response
• Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin or armpit areas
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot
• General feelings of fatigue or malaise
Possible Causes:
Bacterial infections may arise from various sources, including:
• Puncture wounds, cuts, or abrasions
• Athlete’s foot
• Underlying conditions like diabetes or poor circulation
Early detection and professional treatment are key to preventing the spread of infection and avoiding severe health issues like sepsis, bone infections, or even the need for amputation. If you notice any symptoms, we urge you to visit Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates for a comprehensive evaluation. Our specialists can conduct necessary examinations and tests, such as cultures or blood work, to accurately diagnose the infection and tailor a treatment plan for you.
Foot infections often occur when bacteria or fungi enter the skin through a break, potentially spreading deeper into the foot if not treated. This can result in increased redness, swelling, and pain, making walking or standing difficult. If the infection spreads to surrounding tissues, it can lead to cellulitis, characterized by inflammation of the skin and soft tissues.
In more severe cases, the infection can reach the bones, leading to osteomyelitis, a serious condition that may require surgery. Symptoms of an untreated foot infection include increased pain, swelling, redness, drainage, fever, and chills. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates immediately.
We recognize that individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes, are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from foot infections. Our team is specially trained to address these risks with comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Untreated infections can also lead to systemic issues, with bacteria entering the bloodstream, potentially causing sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection. Additionally, the formation of abscesses, which are painful pockets of pus, may require surgical intervention. In extreme cases, untreated infections could necessitate amputation to prevent further spread and save the patient’s life.
Our approach emphasizes early intervention to prevent these outcomes. Our comprehensive treatment plans typically involve the use of antibiotics, meticulous wound care, and close monitoring to ensure complete recovery and avoid recurrence. Trust our experienced team to provide the thorough and compassionate care you need to safeguard your foot health.
Trust Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates to provide the care and expertise your feet deserve. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2227 Olympic Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94595. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Brentwood CA, Concord CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Antioch CA, Alamo CA, Danville CA, Pittsburg CA, Oakley CA, and surrounding areas.

Additional Services You May Need
▸Custom Foot Orthotics
▸Ingrown Toenail Specialist
▸Traditional Podiatry Care
▸Foot and Ankle Surgery Clinic
▸Bunion Doctor
▸Corns and Calluses
▸Foot Arthritis and Joint
▸Warts
▸Video Gait Analysis
▸Athletic Taping
▸Pediatric Foot Specialist
▸Gait Abnormalities
▸Foot Dermatologist
▸Foot Deformities
▸Chronic Foot Injury
▸Diabetic Foot Specialist
▸Acute Foot Injuries
▸Podiatric Sports Services
▸Plantar Fasciitis Specialists