Toenail fungus can cause the toenails to become brittle and yellow. They can gradually harden and become thicker, causing difficulty in having them properly trimmed. This unsightly foot condition is caused by a fungal infection, and is considered to be contagious. This type of fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, consisting of shower room floors, public swimming pools, and similar areas. The fungus can enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin, and it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas. A diagnosis is performed by extracting a small sample of the nail. After confirmation is received, treatment can begin. There are various methods that can accomplish this, and it is strongly suggested a podiatrist is contacted as quickly as possible who can prescribe proper medication.

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 one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors 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 Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pain and discomfort in the heel and surrounding areas may be indicative of a heel spur. It is defined as a bony growth that protrudes from under the heel and may cause inflammation. Additionally, the Achilles tendon may be affected, which may make it difficult to push off the feet while walking. An X-ray is generally taken to help determine the severity of the heel spur. Patients have found that it may be beneficial to elevate the foot, as well as wear shoes that have cushioned soles to alleviate the discomfort that comes with heel spurs. If you have a heel spur, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques, which may include wearing orthotics.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The condition that is referred to as peripheral artery disease (PAD) can cause poor circulation of the feet and various organs in the body. Common symptoms many patients experience can include numbing sensations in the feet, a loss of hair on the legs, and  difficulty walking. It can occur as a result of arteries in the body that become narrow, which can gradually close. This can prevent necessary blood flow, and the feet may feel cold and turn blue. There are methods that can be implemented that may help to prevent PAD. These can include not smoking, incorporating a gentle exercise program into your daily routine, in addition to eating foods that are healthy. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to PAD, including diabetes, obesity, or kidney disease. If you are experiencing numbing or tingling sensations in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat PAD.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most commonly affecting the big toe. This condition can cause pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness along the nail border. In some cases, the area may become infected, producing pus or increased warmth around the toe. Causes include improper nail trimming, tight shoes, injury, or genetic predisposition. The toe may feel sore when walking or wearing certain footwear, and the discomfort can worsen if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a simple examination and assess the severity of the condition. Treatments range from soaking and lifting the nail to minor in-office procedures that remove part of the nail or nail bed. Infections can be treated with antibiotics if necessary. Preventive care and proper nail-cutting techniques might be discussed during the visit. If you are dealing with 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 one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.