Toenail fungus develops when fungi infect a toenail and begin changing its color, thickness, or texture. The infection usually starts near the edge or corner of the nail and can spread across it. Signs include yellow or white discoloration, thickening, and brittle or crumbly edges. The nail can also become difficult to trim. In more advanced cases, it can lift away from the nail bed or break. Pain is not always present at first. However, a thickened nail can press against the inside of a shoe and make walking uncomfortable.

The fungi linked to athlete’s foot cause many toenail-fungus infections. They grow well in warm, dark, and damp places. The infection from athlete’s foot can spread to a toenail or from one nail to another. Risk factors include damaged nails, sweaty feet, and wearing tight or non-breathable shoes. Shared areas like swimming pools and changing rooms can also expose feet to fungus. Toenail fungus can spread between people through direct contact or shared surfaces. Several other nail problems can resemble a fungal infection, so getting the correct diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can examine the affected nail and determine whether fungus is responsible for the changes. When the diagnosis is uncertain, testing a small nail sample can help confirm the cause. Treatment can involve antifungal medication applied to the nail or prescription antifungal tablets for more severe infections. Toenails grow slowly, so a clear, healthy-looking nail can take many months to replace the damaged nail. A podiatrist can also monitor progress and address thick or painful nails that interfere with shoes or walking. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and helps the foot point downward. An Achilles tendon injury can develop when repeated activity places too much stress on this strong band of tissue. Running, jumping, and long periods of walking can strain the tendon, especially after a sudden increase in activity. Tight calf muscles can also place extra stress on the area. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and thickening around the tendon. Pain can be noticeable first thing in the morning or after activity. As the problem becomes more severe, discomfort can occur when walking or running, particularly uphill or across uneven ground.

Several factors can increase stress on the Achilles tendon. Ankle stiffness, calf tightness, and muscle weakness can affect how forces travel through the lower leg. Foot position and poor balance can also contribute to the problem. Shoes that lack proper support, especially very flat shoes, can place additional strain on the tendon. Because complete rest can weaken muscles and tendons, treatment focuses on restoring healthy movement and gradually improving the tendon’s ability to handle activity.  Wearing supportive shoes with a slightly raised heel can also reduce strain while the tendon recovers.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle to determine what is causing Achilles tendon pain. The evaluation can assess foot position, ankle movement, and the way the patient walks. Treatment can focus on improving how the foot functions and reducing excessive strain on the tendon. A podiatrist can also recommend appropriate shoes and develop a structured plan for returning to activity safely. Early evaluation can help prevent ongoing pain from interfering with work, exercise, and everyday movement. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A foot stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repeated strain. Unlike a sudden break from one hard impact, it develops when the bone cannot recover between activities. Runners and dancers can face a higher risk of stress fractures. A fast increase in exercise can also be a factor. Shoes that lack proper support and hard training surfaces can add to the strain. Stress fractures usually affect bones in the front or middle of the foot. Pain may begin as a mild ache during activity, then become sharper.

Other signs include swelling, tenderness, and pain when pressing one spot. The discomfort can ease with rest, but often returns when the foot carries weight. Some patients also notice bruising or trouble walking. These symptoms deserve attention because continuing activity can make the crack worse. A podiatrist will ask how the pain began and examine the sore area. The doctor may order an X-ray or other type of digital imaging to diagnose the injury. A scan can help to confirm the extent and severity of the injury, as well as guide treatment.

Treatment depends on the bone involved and how serious the crack is. A podiatrist can order a walking boot, cast, or supportive device to protect the injured area. This foot doctor can also recommend activity changes and create a plan for a gradual return to exercise. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and adjust the plan. Most stress fractures heal without surgery when they receive early care and enough protection. A podiatrist can also review foot structure, training habits, and shoe support to lower the chance of another injury. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.