Understanding and Treating Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, or unguium, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails, often leading to discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nails. The condition is caused by various types of fungi, primarily dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes or communal bathing areas. Risk factors for toenail fungus include poor hygiene, wearing tight-fitting shoes, walking barefoot in public places, and having a weakened immune system. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include nail scrapings or clippings for laboratory testing. Podiatrists can offer various treatments for toenail fungus, including topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal drugs, laser therapy, and surgical nail removal, in severe cases. If you have signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Safe Removal of Corns on the Feet

When dealing with corns on the feet, it is important to prioritize safe removal techniques, particularly if you have underlying health conditions, like diabetes. Seeking professional help from a podiatrist is essential, especially if the corns are painful or if there are concerns about infection or other complications. A podiatrist may use various methods for safe corn removal, including trimming them with a small knife or applying salicylic acid patches to soften them. These procedures are performed in a controlled medical setting to minimize the risk of infection. Additionally, the podiatrist may address underlying structural issues that can contribute to corn formation, such as bunions or hammer toes. It is important to refrain from attempting corn removal yourself, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation problems. If you have a problem with a corn on the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for its safe removal.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor  will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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3 Common Causes of Foot Pain

Feet, often overlooked until they begin to ache, play an important role in living a normal life. Three common causes of foot pain include tarsal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and metatarsal pain. Tarsal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the tibial or plantar nerves within a passageway in the foot. This type of compression causes pain along the inner ankle and sole. Plantar fasciitis is the result of inflammation of the tissue on the sole of the foot that supports the arch. It results in heel pain and stiffness, particularly after periods of rest or activity. Metatarsalgia, or pain in the ball of the foot is often caused by activities that involve running and jumping. There are other causes as well, including foot deformities and shoes that are too tight or too loose. Addressing these types of foot pain requires a tailored approach, ranging from orthotic inserts and physical therapy to lifestyle adjustments and proper footwear. For help with foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

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Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, often necessitates employing a number of methods to alleviate symptoms effectively. Supportive therapies, such as targeted foot and calf stretches, can help to minimize pressure on the damaged plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the toes to the heel under the foot. For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may offer temporary relief from the pain. In addition, a shift toward performing low-impact exercises, like swimming or cycling, can help to maintain cardiovascular health while minimizing strain on the affected area. Customized orthotics, targeting the arch and swollen regions of the foot, have been shown to provide relief as well as prevent future occurrences of plantar fasciitis. Healing from plantar fasciitis typically occurs within 12 to 18 months with nonsurgical methods. For individualized care from the pain and inconvenience of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

 

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Dealing With an Ankle Sprain

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in your ankle are stretched or torn beyond their intended limits, leading to varying degrees of pain and swelling. Ankle sprains are typically categorized into three grades, ranging from mild stretching to full tearing of ligaments, with Grade III sprains often requiring medical intervention, such as a brace or in some cases, surgery. While certain self-care measures help to ease symptoms, seeking expert care from a podiatrist is essential for a proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of chronic ankle sprains. A podiatrist may recommend using splints, casts, or braces, along with rehab exercises to aid in recovery and prevent future sprains. It is especially important to monitor symptoms closely and seek medical attention if pain persists or worsens, or if there are signs of numbness, weakness, or other concerning symptoms. With proper care and guidance from a podiatrist, most ankle sprains can heal effectively. If you have a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you seek immediate attention from a podiatrist who is trained to deal with this injury.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Numbness in the Feet From Running

Numbness in the toes or feet during running can arise from various factors, including wearing ill-fitting shoes or tightly laced shoelaces that compress nerves. Adjusting shoe size or loosening laces can alleviate pressure. Issues with running gait, such as over-striding, may also contribute to foot numbness as shorter strides can help reduce strain. Overexertion without adequate breaks, in addition to dehydration from excessive fluid loss through sweat, may contribute to numbness. Muscle tightness, especially surrounding the sciatic nerve, can compress the nerves in the feet, resulting in numbness. Flat arches also increase pressure on nerves and blood vessels, potentially leading to numbness. Medical causes, such as peripheral neuropathy, Morton's neuroma, and peripheral arterial disease are other potential causes of numbness in the feet. If numbness persists or worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full evaluation and treatment options.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

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How to Manage a Broken Toe

If you break your big toe, seeing a podiatrist can be helpful. This type of doctor will examine your toe to determine the extent of the injury. Depending on the severity,  X-rays may be taken to see the extent of the fracture. The podiatrist can provide guidance on how to care for your broken toe properly. They can recommend resting the foot and elevating it to reduce swelling. In some cases, they may suggest buddy taping the broken toe to the adjacent one for support. If the fracture is severe or if the toe is misaligned, they may need to realign it or provide a splint to keep it in place. The podiatrist can also offer pain management techniques and advise on when it is safe to resume normal activities. If you believe you have fractured your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is deemed necessary.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

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What Can Cause an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and redness. This common condition typically affects the big toe and can result from various factors. Improper nail trimming, such as cutting nails too short or rounding the edges, increases the risk of ingrown toenails by encouraging the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes can also exert pressure on the toes, causing the nail to grow abnormally and become ingrown. Additionally, injury or trauma to the toe, such as stubbing or repetitive pressure, can disrupt nail growth patterns and contribute to ingrown toenails. Individuals with curved or unusually shaped nails may be more susceptible to this condition. Poor foot hygiene and fungal infections further exacerbate the risk of ingrown toenails. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Common Conditions Affecting Children’s Feet

Children can develop various foot conditions like adults, including plantar warts, flat feet, heel pain, and ingrown toenails. However, these issues can have unique characteristics in children due to their growing bodies and active lifestyles. Normal bone and muscle growth changes in the legs during childhood can contribute to heel pain and flat feet. Additionally, children's active nature can lead to common problems like ingrown toenails and warts, often worsened by wearing tight-fitting shoes during growth spurts. Ingrown toenails can affect people of all ages but are prevalent among teenagers, possibly due to ill-fitting footwear, and resulting in infected ingrown toenails causing the skin to become red, swollen, and warm. Plantar warts, caused by a virus, often appear in children and young adults, resembling circular, thickened skin with tiny black dots. Flat feet, or pes planus, are common among children, generally resolving naturally but manageable with orthotics or arch supports to control pronation. Heel pain in children often relates to plantar fasciitis or Sever's disease, triggered by tight calf muscles and Achilles tendons during growth spurts. If your child has foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment for their situation. Early identification is important in ensuring children have healthy and pain-free feet as they grow and develop.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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