Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection where fungi infiltrate the nail bed, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. Visually, affected nails may appear yellow, brown, or white, and can become distorted or crumbly. This condition arises when fungi enter through cracks in the nail or surrounding skin, thriving in warm, moist environments. Risk factors include advanced age, diabetes, poor circulation, and a history of athlete's foot. Treatment options encompass oral antifungal medications, topical treatments, and in some cases, surgical removal of the affected nail. Early intervention is critical to prevent the infection from spreading or causing further complications. If you suspect you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
For more information about treatment, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. 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 Memphis, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
A broken toe occurs when one of the bones in the toe is fractured due to excessive force or impact. This type of injury is common and can range from a small crack to a complete break. The most frequent cause of a broken toe is trauma, such as stubbing the toe against a hard object or dropping something heavy on it. Athletes and active individuals are more prone to this injury due to the physical demands of sports and activities that involve running or jumping. Other causes include accidents, falls, or even repetitive stress over time. Symptoms of a broken toe include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the toe. In some cases, the toe may appear misaligned or deformed. Proper diagnosis through an X-ray is important to determine the severity of the fracture and ensure appropriate treatment. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can begin the correct treatment for proper healing.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Throbbing pain
Swelling
Bruising on the skin and toenail
The inability to move the toe
Toe appears crooked or disfigured
Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Memphis, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving the thickening of tissue around a nerve leading to the toes, most commonly affecting the area between the third and fourth toes. It often feels like standing on a pebble or experiencing a burning, tingling pain in the ball of the foot. Causes include repetitive stress or compression, commonly from wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. High-impact activities, flat feet, and bunions also increase the risk of developing Morton’s neuroma. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, imaging, and recreating symptoms through pressure on the affected area. Treatments range from footwear modifications, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications to more invasive options like corticosteroid injections or, in severe cases, surgery. The outlook is generally positive with proper management, and prevention focuses on wearing supportive, well-fitted shoes and avoiding prolonged foot stress. If you have symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide a tailored treatment plan for relief.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 our office located in Memphis, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Conditions such as balance issues, ankle instability, or pain from injuries can make walking challenging, increasing the risk of falls. Using a cane can help provide stability and reduce pressure on the affected area. When using a cane, the most effective approach is to hold it in the hand opposite the injured foot, allowing the cane and the affected leg to work together for better support. For example, if the right ankle is in pain, holding the cane in the left hand and stepping forward with both the left hand and the right foot simultaneously creates a more balanced and natural gait. This method minimizes strain on the affected foot and helps prevent altered walking mechanics that could lead to back or hip discomfort. A podiatrist can provide guidance on proper cane usage and evaluate underlying foot or ankle conditions to address pain and improve mobility. If you have fallen and have injured your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
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 Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 Memphis, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
