Mysterious Flakiness and Itchiness Between Your Toes? It Could Be Erythrasma.

If you’ve noticed itchy, flaky, or discolored skin between your toes, you may need professional erythrasma treatment. Many people assume this irritation is a fungal infection, but erythrasma is actually caused by bacteria. Because of this, antifungal creams often don’t work — and the condition may return or worsen without proper care.

At Family Care Podiatry in San Francisco, Dr. Ulyana Shikaloff provides accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment to help your skin heal quickly and prevent the infection from spreading.

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What Is Erythrasma?

Erythrasma is a bacterial skin infection that commonly appears in warm, moist areas such as the toe webs. Although it may look similar to athlete’s foot, it requires completely different treatment.

Symptoms often include:

• Itching or mild burning
• Pink, brown, or reddish skin
• Fine scaling or peeling
• Moist, softened skin between the toes

Because erythrasma is easily confused with fungal infections, proper diagnosis is important.

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How to Tell Erythrasma From a Fungal Infection

Many patients try antifungal creams first. However, erythrasma does not improve with these treatments. Instead, it may spread or become more uncomfortable over time.

Here’s the difference:

• Fungus → peeling, white, itchy skin
• Erythrasma → brownish-red patches with fine scaling

A podiatrist can quickly identify erythrasma using a Wood’s lamp test, which causes the bacteria to glow coral-red. This helps us choose the right erythrasma treatment immediately.

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Erythrasma Treatment Options at Family Care Podiatry

At our clinic, we offer effective erythrasma treatment that targets the bacteria directly. Depending on your symptoms, we may recommend:

• Topical antibacterial medications
• Oral antibiotics for deeper or widespread infections
• Moisture-control strategies to prevent recurrence
• Foot hygiene guidance tailored to your routine and footwear

In addition, we address underlying issues such as sweating, friction, or footwear choices that may contribute to flare-ups.

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Why Professional Diagnosis Matters

Because erythrasma looks so similar to athlete’s foot, many patients treat it incorrectly for weeks or months. As a result, the infection can spread to other toes or cause significant irritation.

A proper diagnosis ensures:

• Faster relief
• Correct medication
• Lower risk of recurrence
• Clearer, healthier skin

Therefore, if you’ve been treating “athlete’s foot” with no improvement, it’s time to get an expert evaluation.

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Get Relief With Expert Erythrasma Treatment

You don’t have to live with persistent itching, flaking, or discomfort between your toes. Dr. Ulyana Shikaloff is here to provide accurate diagnosis and effective erythrasma treatment so you can feel better quickly.

📍 Family Care Podiatry
2250 Hayes St., Suite 612
San Francisco, CA 94117

📞 Call (415) 212-9166 or book online at familycarepodiatry.com.

Your feet deserve expert care — and we’re here to help.

Stop the Itch and Regain Comfort

Do your feet itch, burn, or peel, especially between the toes? You may be dealing with athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)—a common fungal infection that affects both men and women.

Although it’s called “athlete’s foot,” you don’t have to be an athlete to get it. The fungus grows best in warm, damp environments, such as shoes, public showers, and locker rooms. Because of this, people who are active or wear tight shoes are often more likely to experience it.

In many cases, the infection begins as mild itching. However, if left untreated, it can spread quickly and cause discomfort or even pain when walking.

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Recognizing the Signs of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot can look and feel different for everyone. Some people may notice peeling or scaly skin, while others develop redness, cracks, or blisters.

Typical symptoms include:

• Persistent itching or burning between the toes
• Dry, flaky, or scaly skin on the soles of the feet
• Small cracks or blisters that sting or itch
• An unpleasant odor that worsens with heat or moisture

If the condition spreads, toenails can also become thick, discolored, or brittle. Therefore, it’s important to treat it early before it worsens or spreads to others.

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Why Over-the-Counter Creams Often Fall Short

Many people start by using store-bought antifungal creams. However, these products usually only reach the top layer of the skin. As a result, the fungus may remain active underneath, causing the infection to return.

In addition, not all fungal infections are the same. Because different fungal strains respond to different medications, seeing a podiatrist ensures you receive a targeted, effective treatment plan.

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How Family Care Podiatry Can Help

At Family Care Podiatry in San Francisco, Climber putting on tight climbing shoe, illustrating athlete’s foot prevention and treatment by Family Care Podiatry in San Francisco and our team focus on accurate diagnosis and effective, lasting treatment for athlete’s foot. We understand how frustrating this condition can be; therefore, we take the time to find what works best for you.

Depending on the type and severity of your infection, treatment options may include:

• Prescription topical or oral antifungal medications for faster healing
• Gentle skin debridement to remove flaky tissue and promote healthy regrowth
• Soothing medicated foot soaks to reduce inflammation and itching
• Practical home-care tips to prevent reinfection and maintain healthy feet

In addition, Dr. Shikaloff will help you identify what may have caused the infection. For example, footwear choices, moisture exposure, and hygiene habits often play a key role in recurrence.

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Simple Steps to Prevent Athlete’s Foot

Prevention is often easier than treatment. Fortunately, with a few daily habits, you can significantly reduce your risk.

Here are simple steps to follow:

• Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes.
• Change socks daily, and more often if your feet sweat.
• Choose breathable shoes, and alternate pairs to let them dry fully.
• Wear flip-flops in public locker rooms, pools, and showers.
• Use antifungal powder if you are prone to sweaty feet.

By making these small changes, you’ll not only protect your feet but also prevent the infection from returning.

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Get Back to Walking Comfortably

There’s no need to live with itching, burning, or discomfort. Athlete’s foot is highly treatable, and early care makes recovery faster.

At Family Care Podiatry, we combine medical expertise with personalized care, helping you restore healthy skin and confidence. Therefore, whether your symptoms are mild or persistent, our team is ready to help.

📍 Family Care Podiatry
2250 Hayes St., Suite 612
San Francisco, CA 94117 (right across from Golden Gate Park)

📞 Call (415) 212-9166 or book your appointment online at www.familycarepodiatry.com.

Healthy, comfortable feet start here!

Did you feel a sudden “pop” or sharp pain in your heel during activity, followed by weakness? When your Achilles tendon is involved, every second counts. Knowing whether it’s a complete rupture or a partial tear is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.

At Family Care Podiatry in San Francisco, Dr. Shikaloff, specializes in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendon injuries. Our clinic provides rapid diagnosis and personalized treatment plans to ensure you get back on your feet quickly and safely. We’ll clearly explain your condition and guide you through the best course of action—whether it’s conservative care or surgical repair—for the best possible outcome.

Don’t guess about your Achilles tendon injury—get an expert opinion from Family Care Podiatry today.

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What Is the Achilles Tendon?

Your Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It’s essential for walking, running, and jumping — but because it absorbs tremendous force, it’s one of the most commonly injured tendons.

When the tendon is overstretched or strained, it can develop a partial tear or a complete rupture.

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Achilles Tendon Tear vs. Rupture: What’s the Difference?

• Partial Tear: The tendon fibers are damaged, but the tendon remains intact. You might experience pain, swelling, or weakness, but can often still move your foot.
• Complete Rupture: The tendon separates fully, often with a noticeable “pop” sound or snapping sensation. This leads to sudden, sharp pain and difficulty pushing off or walking normally.

A prompt examination—including ultrasound or MRI—at Family Care Podiatry helps determine the severity of the injury and guides your personalized Achilles tendon treatment plan.

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Achilles Tendon Treatment Options

Treatment for Achilles tendon tears or ruptures depends on the severity of your injury, your activity level, and your overall health. Dr. Shikaloff offers both conservative and surgical options, tailoring each plan to your needs and lifestyle.

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1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

For partial tears or less severe ruptures, non-surgical treatment may include:

• Immobilization in a walking boot or cast
• Heel lifts to reduce tendon strain
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility

Pros:

• Avoids surgical risks such as infection or nerve injury
• Suitable for older adults or less active patients
• Promotes natural tendon healing

Cons:

• Longer recovery time in some cases
• Slightly higher risk of re-rupture
• Possible mild loss of strength or flexibility

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2. Surgical Repair

For complete ruptures or active individuals, Achilles tendon repair surgery may be recommended. During this procedure, Dr. Shikaloff reconnects the torn ends of the tendon to restore full function.

Pros:

• Lower re-rupture rate than non-surgical care
• Stronger push-off strength
• Often faster return to sports or active lifestyles

Cons:

• Requires anesthesia and involves surgical risks (infection, scarring, nerve irritation)
• Longer initial recovery before weight-bearing
• Requires commitment to post-operative rehabilitation

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3. Advanced and Supportive Therapies

At Family Care Podiatry, we also offer or coordinate advanced therapies that support recovery, including:

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections to enhance tendon healing
• Shockwave therapy for chronic Achilles pain
• Custom orthotics to support alignment and prevent future strain

These treatments can complement traditional care for a more complete and faster recovery.

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Achilles Tendon Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation plays a critical role in Achilles tendon recovery. Physical therapy helps rebuild flexibility, balance, and strength. With consistent care and guidance from Dr. Shikaloff, most patients return to normal activity within several months.

At Family Care Podiatry, we support you through every step of the recovery process to ensure long-term success.

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When to See a Heel Pain Specialist

If you’ve heard or felt a “pop” in your heel, or you’re experiencing heel pain, swelling, or weakness, it’s important to see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Prompt evaluation prevents complications and improves your chances of full recovery.

Dr. Ulyana Shikaloff, DPM, and the team at Family Care Podiatry provide expert care for all types of Achilles tendon injuries — from mild strains to full ruptures. Using advanced diagnostics and evidence-based treatment, we help you heal safely and effectively.

📍 Family Care Podiatry
2250 Hayes St., Suite 612
San Francisco, CA 94117

📞 Call (415) 212-9166 or schedule your appointment online today for expert Achilles tendon treatment in San Francisco, CA.

Do you suffer from arch pain, heel pain, or discomfort that radiates up your legs? The right foot support can make all the difference. Our podiatry clinic offers a wide range of orthotics, from over-the-counter options to highly customized devices, designed to address your unique foot structure and biomechanical needs. Learn about the various types of orthotics and how they can help alleviate pain, improve stability, and enhance your overall foot function. Find the perfect support for your feet and step into greater comfort!

Waking up with stiffness and pain at the back of your heel, right where your Achilles tendon meets your foot? You might be experiencing Achilles insertional tendinopathy. This condition can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. Our podiatry practice understands the nuances of this specific type of Achilles pain. Let us help you understand why this happens, explore effective non-surgical treatments like specialized exercises and footwear adjustments, and discuss when more advanced care might be beneficial. Take the first step towards pain relief and reclaim your active lifestyle.

Are you experiencing persistent pain and tenderness on the outside of your ankle, especially with movement? This could be a sign of peroneal enthesopathy, a common issue for athletes and dancers. We specialize in diagnosing and treating this condition, designed a custom treatment plan to alleviate your pain and restore your ankle’s function.

Is persistent heel pain from plantar fasciitis holding you back from your daily activities or favorite exercises? When conservative treatments are no longer effective, you may benefit from an injection. You may be a candidate for steroid, PRPP, or dextrose prolotherapy injection. Our podiatry team offers various injection therapies, including corticosteroids and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), to target the source of your pain directly. Discover how these innovative treatments work, their benefits, and how they can help you get back on your feet. Don’t let heel pain dictate your life any longer—explore your options with us today!

Did you experience a sudden sharp pain in your foot during a run or intense workout? Or perhaps a nagging ache that developed over time? Metatarsal fractures, especially stress fractures, are common among active individuals. With an in-office Xray, you can get the correct diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, ensuring a safe and effective recovery.