
The big toe is generally the first toe to be affected by toenail fungus. It’s considered to be a common foot ailment, and will typically affect half the population by the time people reach 70 years old. There are several symptoms that are indicative of this condition, including the nail appearing unusually thick and possibly yellow or white. This ailment may cause the nail to separate from the nail bed which is referred to as onycholysis. If the infection is mild, it may help to treat the area by thoroughly washing and filing the affected nail followed by utilizing a mentholated rubbing cream. For more severe infections, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can advise on how to properly treat toenail fungus. This advice may typically include information about oral or topical antifungal medications.
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 Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
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 our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is the result of crystals that form in the joints because of excess uric acid in the blood. Over the years, this type of arthritis has had many myths associated with it. It was often thought to be a condition that wealthy people who can afford to overindulge in rich foods may be afflicted with. This has been proven to be untrue because this condition may affect people of different income levels. Recent research has shown that it may be related to genetics in addition to elevated blood pressure or contending with weight issues which may raise cholesterol. An additional myth is gout only affects the big toe. While this is the toe that is typically afflicted, the crystals may form in other parts of the body. Many people are under the assumption that once you have gout, you’ll always be susceptible to this ailment. It has been proven that with proper dietary and lifestyle changes, gout attacks may considerably diminish and may even cease completely. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to gout, or have any questions, a consultation with a podiatrist is advised.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore 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
Risk Factors
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 office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Everything You Need to Know About GoutThe pain of an ingrown toenail can often be uncomfortable and frustrating, and will typically affect the big toe. It generally occurs when the nails are not trimmed correctly, which may cause the side of the nail to grow downward. Additionally, an ingrown toenail may result from wearing shoes that fit poorly. Common symptoms may include the toe appearing red and tender and in severe cases, a discharge may ooze from the affected and surrounding areas. Many patients will benefit from consulting with a podiatrist who may suggest soaking the foot in lukewarm salt water several times per day. This method will soften the skin which may attain moderate relief. If the toenail becomes infected, surgery may be a necessary treatment option for removal of the nail and the infected surrounding tissue. If you would like additional information about how to prevent or treat ingrown toenails, please consult with a podiatrist
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Recent research has shown that an elevated body mass index, also known as BMI may play a significant role in affecting the structure of the foot. The heel may often endure extra pressure from the additional weight, and may result in a condition referred to as plantar fasciitis. The ability to exercise may be diminished by the weight, and podiatrists may suggest non aerobic exercises to strengthen the feet. The ankles may lose mobility and may affect the way walking is done. Wearing socks that have adequate cushioning may aid in providing necessary stability in addition to possibly avoiding injuries to the skin and soft tissues. A podiatrist will offer valuable information on how obesity affects the feet in addition to managing foot conditions that may have developed as a result of being obese.
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 Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. 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
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.