The Unwanted Guest on Your Toenail

If your toenails look discolored, thick, or crumbly, you may be hosting an unwelcome visitor, a fungal infection. Medically known as onychomycosis, this common condition starts small but can grow into a significant issue, causing embarrassment and discomfort. Fungi love to hide in warm, moist places like the inside of your shoes and socks. Once the infection takes hold, it slowly spreads beneath the nail, making it brittle and often giving it a cloudy yellow or white appearance. This is not simply a cosmetic concern. Untreated fungus can cause pain and sometimes lead to secondary bacterial infections. Many over-the-counter remedies fail to reach the fungus deep within the nail. For an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options, including oral medication, or prescription topicals, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. 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 office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Common Foot Injuries in Golf and How to Prevent Them

Golf may seem low impact, but the repetitive motions and long hours on your feet can lead to several foot injuries. Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain from inflammation of the tissue supporting the arch, while metatarsalgia leads to pain in the ball of the foot from excessive pressure during swings. Additionally, tendonitis can develop from overuse of the tendons that stabilize the foot and ankle, and stress fractures may occur from repetitive strain on the bones. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of your pain, recommend custom orthotics, and create a treatment plan to restore comfort and mobility. If foot pain is affecting your golf game, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide expert care and effective recovery solutions.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Flat Feet in Children

Flat feet in children occur when the arches of the feet do not develop as expected, causing the entire foot to touch the ground. Some children outgrow flat feet as their muscles and bones strengthen, while others may develop persistent issues. Causes include having a tight Achilles tendon, tarsal coalition where foot bones fuse, and rigid flat feet that do not change with movement. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, recommend stretching exercises, orthotics, or treatment to improve comfort and prevent future problems. If your child has pain or difficulty walking from having flat feet, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment relief and treatment solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

An Easy Stretch for Feet and Ankles

If you are an athlete, then you are likely aware of the many foot and ankle injuries one might face while participating in sports. The feet and ankles are the foundations of the body, but they undergo a lot of wear and tear during most physical activity. Because of this, it is important to stretch your feet and ankles, giving them the strength and flexibility that they need to work out. One easy stretch that you can do is standing in front of a wall and placing the toes of one foot on that wall while keeping your heel on the floor. Flex the foot and hold for 10 to 15 seconds. You should feel a stretch in your foot and calf. For more information about stretches for your foot and ankle health, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist today.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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