There are noticeable symptoms that occur when toenail fungus develops. These can include yellowing of the toenails, and in advanced stages, they can thicken and can possibly detach from the nail bed. Many patients find their nails have become unsightly, and the texture may have changed if afflicted with fungus. A toenail fungal infection is caused by a fungus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, including public shower room floors, pools, and surrounding areas. Proper prevention techniques can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in these types of places, in addition to refraining from sharing towels, socks, and shoes. There are various treatment methods available, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the most effective treatment is for you.

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 Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner 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 Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. Common causes include cutting toenails too short, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, toe injuries, or having naturally curved nails. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain along the nail margin. If left untreated, the area can become infected, leading to drainage, increased swelling, and more intense discomfort. The affected toe may feel warm to the touch and make walking or wearing shoes difficult. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a visual examination and determine if an infection is present. Treatment options range from soaking the foot and gently lifting the nail to performing a minor procedure to remove part of the nail. In some cases, a more permanent solution may be recommended to prevent recurrence. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to relieve pain and avoid further complications.

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 Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner 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 Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can have a serious impact on the feet by reducing circulation and damaging nerves. This combination increases the risk of ulcers, infections, and delayed healing, often without the person noticing an injury at first. Common warning signs include numbness, tingling, skin changes, and slow healing cuts or blisters. Preventive care is essential and includes daily foot inspections, keeping the skin moisturized, and wearing properly fitted shoes that reduce pressure points. Regular trimming of toenails and avoiding walking barefoot can also lower the risk of complications. Even small wounds should never be ignored, as they can quickly progress to more severe problems. Routine checkups with a podiatrist help detect issues early and preserve mobility. If you have diabetes and notice any changes in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and ongoing care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Ankle ulcers are open sores that develop when the skin around the ankle breaks down, but does not heal. They are often linked to poor blood flow, nerve damage, or high pressure in the veins. Venous stasis ulcers are the most common type of ankle ulcer and usually form just above the ankle joint. They occur when blood does not move back to the heart as it should, which causes swelling and tissue damage. Diabetes and arterial disease can also increase the risk of ankle ulcers. Other risk factors include varicose veins, previous blood clots, chronic swelling, inflammatory problems, and smoking, which reduces oxygen supply to the skin. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, warmth, drainage of fluid, and pain or itching. A podiatrist can examine the ankle ulcer, check circulation, provide wound care, and use compression to reduce swelling and improve healing. If you have an ankle ulcer, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.