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Managing Fungal Toenail Infections
Fungal toenail infections can be recognized by the slow development of discolored, thickened, and distorted nails, often accompanied by discomfort. Although not typically serious, fungal toenail infections can be bothersome and challenging to address. Fungal toenail infections typically arise from fungi prevalent in warm, moist environments, like gym locker rooms. Contributing factors include poor foot hygiene, sweaty footwear, and exposure to communal areas where people are likely to be barefoot. Treatment options encompass antifungal medications, although it may take a long time and cause side effects. While mild cases may resolve without intervention, severe infections often necessitate medical attention. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and options for more advanced treatment.
For more information about treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Aging Can Affect Women’s Feet
As women age, their feet undergo various changes that can affect their comfort and mobility. Menopause-induced hormonal shifts often lead to dry, calloused skin, making the feet susceptible to painful fissures and infections. Weight gain in middle age can weaken the arches, causing conditions like plantar fasciitis. The loss of fat padding on the balls of the feet and heels can result in metatarsalgia and heel pain, especially for those who spent years wearing high heels. Additionally, arthritis of the big toe joint, known as hallux rigidus, can cause pain and stiffness with each step. Bunions, caused by genetic factors and years of wearing narrow-toed shoes, are also common causes of foot pain in older women. To address these issues and maintain foot health, women over 50 need to prioritize regular foot care and wear supportive footwear. However, if foot pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized treatment and care.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Excess Weight and Circulatory Issues of the Feet
Poor circulation in the feet refers to reduced blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to symptoms like cold feet, numbness, tingling, and slow wound healing. It occurs when blood vessels become narrowed or blocked, restricting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the feet. Typical causes of poor circulation include peripheral artery disease, atherosclerosis, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels. Obesity can exacerbate poor circulation in the feet due to several factors. Excess body weight increases the workload on the heart and blood vessels, leading to conditions like hypertension and atherosclerosis. Fat accumulation around blood vessels can also compress them, further impairing blood flow. Managing poor circulation involves lifestyle changes like regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and controlling underlying medical conditions. In severe cases, medical interventions like medications or surgical procedures may be necessary to improve blood flow. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
- When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
- Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
- Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
See Your Foot Specialist Regularly If You Work On Your Feet
Do you work on your feet all day and find your feet in pain? Don't go to work in pain each day. Your foot pain can be treated, and we can help.
How Psoriatic Arthritis Affects the Feet
Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, is a condition intricately linked with psoriasis, affecting up to 50 percent of those individuals with PsA. Psoriatic arthritis targets the joints, tendons, and ligaments of the feet, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms can include swelling, pain, stiffness, and changes in appearance, such as nail pitting and skin lesions. Foot involvement in PsA can make walking and daily activities challenging, with conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis causing significant pain and limiting movement. Complications like dactylitis, which is a sausage-like swelling of the toes, and arthritis mutilans, or joint deformity, can occur if left untreated. Podiatrists can offer tailored treatment plans, including medication and specific orthotics to alleviate symptoms and enhance mobility. If you believe you have psoriatic arthritis that is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Achilles Tendon Pain
If you are experiencing pain in the back of your heel, you may have injured your Achilles tendon. This tendon, named after the legendary Greek warrior Achilles, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes, particularly in sports like basketball and soccer. Symptoms include pain in the back of the heel or up the back of the leg, ranging from mild to severe. These injuries can occur in different places along the tendon, with the most serious being Achilles tendinopathy, which involves chronic inflammation and fluid buildup. Treatment typically involves rest, gentle stretching, and strengthening exercises. Prevention strategies include paying attention to foot mechanics, adjusting running stride, and building flexibility and strength in the lower legs through targeted exercises. If you are experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon area, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Back of the Ankle Pain Experienced by Dancers
Pain at the back of a dancer’s ankle can happen for various reasons, ranging from overuse to specific injuries. Achilles tendonitis, a common condition among dancers, results from repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Another possible cause is posterior impingement syndrome, often seen in dancers who frequently point their toes, causing compression and irritation at the back of the ankle joint. Additionally, Haglund's deformity, characterized by a bony prominence at the back of the heel, can exacerbate discomfort, especially when wearing tight-fitting shoes. If you are a dancer and are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Relief From Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can be bothersome and even painful. They often occur due to dry skin and excessive pressure on the feet, especially while wearing open-back shoes or spending a lot of time on hard surfaces. Moisturizing the heels regularly with emollients helps restore suppleness and prevent further cracking. If the condition persists despite conservative treatment, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist. Possible treatments include heel cups to redistribute weight and support the heel pad, or medical glue to help cracks heal. Podiatrists can provide personalized care for optimal foot health, and also address any underlying conditions, such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and neuropathy, which may contribute to cracked heels. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment options that are correct for you.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain
Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.
Understanding Pain and Discomfort of Toe Arthritis
Arthritis in the toe, a common ailment affecting many individuals, manifests through various symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. Persistent toe pain, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities, are hallmark symptoms of toe arthritis. Individuals may experience stiffness and limited range of motion in the affected toe, making tasks like walking, bending, and standing challenging and painful. Swelling and inflammation surrounding the toe joint are also common symptoms of arthritis, indicating underlying joint damage and inflammation. As arthritis progresses, individuals may notice changes in the appearance and alignment of the toe, such as swelling, deformities, and bone spurs. Additionally, toe arthritis can cause instability and weakness in the affected joint, leading to difficulty bearing weight and maintaining balance. If you are experiencing toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause, and offer appropriate relief and treatment options.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Gout
Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints, often affecting the big toe. Gout is notorious for its intense pain, which frequently flares up at night. Although commonly associated with men over 45, gout can develop in anyone at any age. This arthritic condition stems from the body's inability to adequately process purines, which are natural substances found in the body. This inability results in the formation of uric acid. When uric acid levels become elevated, sharp urate crystals form and deposit in joints, leading to inflammation, swelling, and excruciating pain. While the big toe is a frequent target, gout can affect any joint and often strikes suddenly, even disrupting sleep with its severity. Dietary factors play a significant role in gout development, with diets high in red meat, seafood, and fructose-containing beverages increasing the risk. Alcohol consumption and obesity also increase susceptibility to gout. Symptoms can include agonizing pain, swelling, warmth, and redness at the affected joint, which may last up to a week before subsiding. Gout is not curable, but it can be managed with the help of lifestyle and dietary changes and treatment from a podiatrist. If you suffer from the symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who is medically trained to manage this ailment.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Happens if Athlete's Foot Is Untreated
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes blisters and peeling skin on the feet. This contagious infection is generally treated with topical antifungal medications. If left untreated, athlete's foot can lead to more severe problems than the itching and redness associated with the infection. If ignored, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot, such as the toenails or the soles of the feet. As the condition progresses, it may result in painful blisters, cracks, and open sores, making daily activities like walking or standing uncomfortable. In some cases, untreated athlete's foot can contribute to the development of secondary bacterial infections, which can include swollen and painful feet. These secondary infections can also cause fever and lymph node infections. Some patients also experience allergic reactions to the initial fungal infection, causing blisters on the infected area. Podiatrists can prescribe antifungal medications and provide more information on foot hygiene to effectively quell a case of athlete’s foot. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you seek prompt treatment from a podiatrist to treat the infection and prevent it from worsening.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Treatment of Toenail Fungus
The treatment of toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, aims to eliminate the fungal infection and improve the appearance and health of the affected nails. Treatment options for toenail fungus can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In many cases, antifungal nail paints or creams can be effective for mild infections. These topical treatments need to be applied consistently over several months. For more severe or persistent cases, prescription medications may be required. Oral antifungal medications prescribed by a podiatrist are often more potent and can lead to better outcomes. However, they may have side effects and require monitoring during treatment. In some instances, where the infection is resistant to other treatments or when multiple nails are affected, surgical options such as nail removal or laser therapy may be considered. If you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a consultation and treatment appropriate to your situation.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely.
