Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that causes toenails to become discolored, thickened, brittle, or even separated from the nail bed. The infection often starts as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail, gradually spreading deeper. Symptoms may include a foul odor, pain, or discomfort while wearing shoes. Toenail fungus is typically caused by exposure to warm, moist environments, such as communal showers, around swimming pools, or tight, non-breathable shoes. People with a weakened immune system, diabetes, or poor circulation are more at risk of developing this condition. To prevent toenail fungus, it is essential to practice good foot hygiene by keeping your feet dry, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and choosing breathable shoes. Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces and regularly trim your nails straight across. A podiatrist can treat toenail fungus with antifungal medications or nail removal in severe cases. If you have the beginning symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. 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 our office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels can result from a combination of external and medical causes. External factors such as walking barefoot on hard surfaces, prolonged standing, or wearing open-back shoes can increase pressure on the heels, leading to dry, thickened skin that cracks. Environmental conditions, like cold weather and low humidity, can also contribute to dryness and skin breakdown. Medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, and psoriasis often cause dryness and inflammation, making the skin more vulnerable to cracks. Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, can worsen the problem by causing peeling and irritation. Additionally, poor circulation, common in individuals with certain health conditions, can also slow the healing process. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

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 Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 our office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This often happens on the big toe and can be incredibly uncomfortable. Symptoms include tenderness, visible inflammation, and sometimes an infection with pus if left untreated. The main causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes that put pressure on the toes, or injury to the nail. People with conditions like diabetes or poor circulation are also more prone to developing ingrown toenails due to their feet being more vulnerable to infection. A podiatrist can help by properly diagnosing the condition and offering treatments, such as topical antibiotics, or in some cases, surgically removing part of the toenail. Podiatrists can also offer advice on proper nail care and footwear to prevent future occurrences. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment 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 Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. 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

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Nerve damage following an ankle sprain can cause a variety of symptoms that may persist beyond the initial injury. Radiating pain is a common sign, often extending from the ankle into the foot or lower leg. This discomfort may feel sharp, burning, or tingling. Altered skin sensation, such as numbness, heightened sensitivity, or a pins and needles feeling, can also occur. In more severe cases, foot drop may develop, making it difficult to lift the front part of the foot while walking. Over time, a loss of muscle size can become noticeable due to reduced nerve function and weakened movement. If you have sprained your ankle, and are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.