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Our skin condition pages cover the most common foot skin problems in more detail. You can also browse our Skin Conditions overview, or call (541) 386-1006 to talk with our office. Telehealth consultations are available as well.

Foot skin problems are among the most common reasons patients visit a podiatrist in the Columbia River Gorge, and each one benefits from an accurate diagnosis before treatment begins. Conditions such as athlete's foot, plantar warts, calluses and corns, allergic contact dermatitis, xerosis, and skin infections can look similar at first glance even though their causes differ widely. A careful visual examination of the skin and nail surfaces, combined with a discussion of daily habits and footwear, helps our team distinguish between a fungal infection, a viral wart, and simple thickened skin. Understanding the true cause prevents months of ineffective home treatment and supports faster, more comfortable healing.

Structural and joint conditions place lasting strain on the foot and often affect how a person walks, stands, and spends the day. Bunions, hammertoes, hallux rigidus, tailor's bunion, flatfoot, and other toe deformities develop gradually, so early attention to foot mechanics, support, and protective footwear can slow progression. When a deformity becomes painful or interferes with mobility, a podiatric evaluation allows conservative options to be explored first. Our board-certified podiatrist works with patients to build a treatment plan that fits their lifestyle, activity level, and long-term goals for healthy, functional feet.

Heel pain and inflammation of the Achilles tendon are frequent complaints among patients in Hood River, The Dalles, White Salmon, and Stevenson. Plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and related overuse problems frequently appear after increases in walking, standing, running, or new footwear, and the discomfort can be stubborn if the underlying mechanical cause is not addressed. Evaluation typically includes a review of daily activity, an assessment of foot structure, and discussion of stretch, support, and rest strategies. Many patients find that consistent, patient-centered care and gradual return to activity brings meaningful relief over time.

Diabetic foot care deserves special attention because even a small break in the skin can lead to serious complications. Regular foot examinations help identify wounds, changes in skin texture, nail problems, and circulation concerns before they become urgent. Because diabetes can reduce sensation and slow healing, preventive podiatry visits are a valuable part of an overall diabetes management plan, working alongside the patient's other healthcare providers. Our office emphasizes patient education, careful monitoring, and accessible scheduling, including telehealth consultations, so concerns can be discussed promptly and treatment can start without delay.

Choosing a podiatrist means selecting a provider who combines formal training with clear communication and a genuine interest in each patient's daily life. The team at Marina Kessa, DPM, includes a board-certified podiatrist who is also affiliated with the American Podiatric Medical Association, offering a foundation built on established standards of care. From the first appointment onward, patients receive educational resources, condition-specific information, and treatment options explained in plain language. If you are dealing with heel pain, ingrown nails, fungal nails, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, or diabetes-related foot concerns, reaching out to our office is a practical first step.