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Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nail and the skin beneath it. It usually develops slowly, allowing the fungus to spread if left untreated. The infection often begins at the edge of the nail before moving deeper into the nail plate. As it progresses, the toenail may become thicker and more brittle or change color. Although any toenail can be affected, the big toenail is involved most often. Toenail fungus is more common in older adults and people with certain medical conditions, but it can develop in anyone. Because other nail disorders may appear similar, a professional evaluation is important to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Early podiatry care may also help prevent the infection from becoming more difficult to manage.

Symptoms of toenail fungus vary depending on the severity of the infection. Many people notice a nail that becomes yellow, white, or brown. Others experience thickened nails or nails that become rough and difficult to trim. In more advanced cases, the nail may become misshapen or separate from the nail bed, causing discomfort while walking or wearing shoes. The infection may spread to additional toenails if it is not properly treated. Persistent nail changes should not be ignored because they may affect comfort, mobility, and overall foot health. Prompt evaluation can determine whether a fungal infection or another nail condition is responsible for the symptoms.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating toenail fungus and other nail conditions. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the affected nail and may recommend testing to confirm the cause of the infection. Treatment focuses on eliminating the infection, improving nail health, and reducing the risk of future problems. Ongoing podiatry care also helps monitor nail growth and identify changes that may require additional attention. If you are experiencing thick, discolored, or brittle toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

For more information about treatment, contact One of our podiatrists of Taub Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The heel fat pad is a layer of fatty tissue under the heel bone. It works like a cushion, absorbing force when your heel hits the ground. Heel fat pad atrophy occurs when this layer becomes thinner, shifts out of place, or loses its springy quality. The heel then has less protection from pressure. Pain feels deep and bruise-like in the center of the heel. It can worsen when standing for long periods of time, when walking on hard floors, or when running. Unlike plantar fasciitis, which usually hurts closer to the inner edge of the heel, fat pad pain tends to stay centered beneath it.

Age-related changes can reduce the fat pad’s thickness and flexibility. High-impact activity and added body weight can place stress on this tissue. Other causes include an injury, diabetes, or arthritis. Shoes that lack proper support can make symptoms worse because they provide less cushioning. Patients may change the way they walk to avoid pain. That can place extra strain on the feet, ankles, or knees. Since heel fat pad atrophy can resemble other heel problems, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist will review the symptoms, examine the painful area, and study how you stand and walk. Imaging, like an ultrasound or X-ray, can measure the pad or rule out another cause.

Treatment focuses on reducing pressure and improving heel protection. A podiatrist can recommend heel cups, supportive shoes, or custom orthotics. Orthotics are shoe inserts that support your feet and improve how pressure is spread. The podiatrist also may use taping to hold the heel pad in a better position. The care plan will reflect specific symptoms, activity level, and foot structure. Surgery is rarely considered for this problem. If you have pain underneath the heel, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact One of our podiatrists of Taub Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.