If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
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Noticeable Symptoms of a Toenail Fungus
A noticeable sign of an existing toenail fungus is often a discoloration of the nail. It can be accompanied by a thickening of the nail, and it may appear to be brittle. This contagious condition is caused by a fungus that lives in warm and moist environments. These areas can include public pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. If you frequent these places, it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes, which may be helpful in preventing toenail fungus. Patients who enjoy getting pedicures must ensure that the tools that are used are clean and sterile. Additional sources of contracting toenail fungus can consist of wearing shoes and socks that prevent ventilation, or medical conditions such as diabetes and weakened immune systems. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.
For more information about treatment, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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 Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Staying Safe at Work by Preventing Falls
Preventing falls at work begins with choosing the right footwear that offers support, grip, and a secure fit to keep you steady throughout the day. Being aware of surfaces is also important because wet floors, uneven ground, or loose rugs can increase the risk of slipping. Keeping work areas clean and free of clutter helps create a safer environment and reduces hazards that may go unnoticed during a busy day. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics, and address any pain or balance issues that may increase your risk of falling. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional fall prevention tips.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Types and Causes of Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are small, rough growths that form on the soles of the feet due to infection by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus enters through tiny cuts or cracks in the skin, often in moist environments like locker rooms or around swimming pools. Two main types are myrmecial warts, which grow inward under pressure and often cause pain while walking, and mosaic warts, which form clusters that tend to be flatter and less painful. Plantar warts often appear on weight-bearing areas, like the heels or balls of the feet, developing thickened skin with tiny black dots that are clotted blood vessels. They can make standing or walking uncomfortable and sometimes alter gait mechanics, leading to additional foot strain. A podiatrist can confirm a diagnosis, safely remove painful lesions, and provide effective treatment to prevent recurrence. If you believe you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels place significant stress on the feet by altering natural posture and shifting weight onto the forefoot. This increased pressure on the metatarsal heads often leads to pain across the ball of the foot and strain in the toes. The elevated heel forces the ankle into a pointed position, which shortens the Achilles tendon over time and increases tension along the calf and heel. Wearing high heels also affects the arch of the foot, sometimes leading to flattening or instability, which can contribute to midfoot discomfort. Prolonged use makes balance more difficult and raises the risk of falls or ankle sprains due to the narrowed base of support. Chronic wear has also been linked to bunions, hammertoes, and nerve irritation between the toes. A podiatrist can evaluate these issues, recommend strategies to reduce long-term damage, and provide the appropriate treatment. If you have foot pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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