Onychomycosis, otherwise known as toenail fungus, is an infection of the toenails. This type of fungus is found in moist environments, consisting of public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. The fungus enters the body through small cracks in the skin on the feet, and it is wise to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas. It is a common ailment, and generally causes no pain, although it can appear to be unsightly. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition often include yellowed nails that have become thick and brittle, and may begin to crumble. It may be more prevalent among the older population, and can be difficult to treat. Research has shown that there may be a correlation between toenail fungus and reduced blood flow, and it may help to increase circulation as part of the antidote for toenail fungus. This can be improved by consuming a healthy diet that is made up of low-fat and plant based foods, which may help overall health. Toenail fungus can be a stubborn condition, and can gradually worsen if left untreated. It is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist if you are afflicted with this ailment who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

There is a nerve called the plantar digital nerve which is located between the toes. Morton’s neuroma is a condition that occurs when that nerve is irritated or squeezed and can happen from wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area. When this nerve is inflamed the pressure is felt in the ball of the foot. The nerve can become thickened, and this ailment gradually becomes painful. Some of the symptoms that are associated with Morton’s neuroma can include the sensation of stepping on a pebble, the foot can feel numb, and the pain can travel between the third and fourth toes. This is a common condition among ballet dancers because of the style of dance they enjoy. There may also be existing medical conditions that can trigger Morton’s neuroma like hammertoe, bunions, and flat feet. If you have any of these symptoms please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal of the nerve.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Approximately 70% of individuals will develop a form of athlete’s foot at some point in their lives. Therefore, you ought to be aware of what this condition is and how it is linked to certain kinds of footwear. Athlete’s foot is primarily caused by a fungal infection that most commonly affects the outer skin of the foot around the toes. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm, moist, and damp environments. Individuals who walk barefoot in damp, public areas (such as locker rooms and pool sides) are more susceptible to athlete’s foot. However, your footwear also can make you more susceptible. For example, shoes that are tight fitting, especially around the toes, put you at risk of developing athlete’s foot because they essentially squeeze your toes together. This squeezing effect can make the area around the toes warm and moist, facilitating the fungal infection. Also, plastic footwear might make you more prone to developing athlete’s foot. This is because plastic is a material that warms and moistens the feet more than others, like canvas or leather. For more information about athlete’s foot and its connection to certain kinds of footwear, contact a podiatrist.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.