Ugly Toenails May Indicate a Fungus

Toenail fungus is a common infection that can change the way your nails look and feel. The affected nails may become thick, yellow, or brown. They can appear brittle, cracked, or misshapen. Some people notice debris building up under the nail, a bad odor, or the nail starting to lift away from the skin underneath. In some cases, the condition can cause discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or walking. Toenail fungus develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. These organisms grow best in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public pool areas. Risk factors include aging, previous nail injuries, or diabetes. Because other nail conditions can look similar, a proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can examine the nail, confirm whether fungus is present, and recommend the most effective treatment. If you notice fungal toenail symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment for evaluation and care.

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 Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. 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 contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Understanding Foot and Ankle Fractures

Foot and ankle fractures can happen in many ways, from twisting injuries to falls, sports accidents, or sudden awkward steps. Some breaks occur when the foot rolls inward or outward, placing stress on different bones, ligaments, and joint supports around the ankle. Depending on the force and direction of the injury, damage may range from a simple crack in one bone to more complex injuries involving multiple bones and stabilizing tissues. Symptoms often include swelling, bruising, pain with movement, tenderness, and trouble putting weight on the affected foot. Because some fractures appear similar to severe sprains, proper evaluation is important for an accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. A podiatrist can examine the injury, order imaging when needed, and determine whether support, immobilization, or further treatment is necessary. If you have sudden foot or ankle pain after an injury, it is strongly suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods.

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Types of Foot Arthritis and What They Mean

Foot arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and joint damage in the feet, often leading to pain and limited movement. Osteoarthritis, or OA, develops over time as cartilage wears down, causing stiffness and aching that worsens with activity. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that leads to joint swelling, warmth, and deformity as the immune system attacks healthy tissue. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals, often creating sudden and intense pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. Each type can affect walking and daily comfort in different ways. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific type, provide imaging, and create a treatment plan to protect joint function and reduce pain. If you are experiencing joint pain in your feet,  it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Symptoms of Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause sudden episodes of severe pain in the feet and ankles when uric acid crystals collect inside a joint. Gout frequently affects the big toe, but it may also involve the arch, heel, or ankle. During a flare-up, the joint may become swollen, stiff, and extremely sensitive. Skin often appears red or purple and feels warm to the touch. Some patients describe the pain as sharp, crushing, or pulsating, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes comfortably. Gout attacks may be the result of dehydration, alcohol use, certain medications, or diets high in purine-rich foods. Repeated inflammation can damage cartilage and surrounding tissue. A podiatrist can examine the painful area, evaluate joint changes, and help guide treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent future attacks. Care may include medication recommendations, footwear guidance, and strategies to reduce pressure on the affected joints. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and prevention tips from this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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