Common Foot Problems

NAILS

INGROWN NAILS

• When the nail grows into the skin surrounding it. The causes can be improper trimming or even heredity, just to name a few.
• The symptoms are pain from the tip of the toe to the base and can often be worse while you walk. This can lead to inflammation and infection.
• Depending on the severity of discomfort, the podiatrist may just trim the nail. If there is need, the podiatrist may remove part of the nail and treat the root. If there is a serious infection the podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics and temporarily or permanently remove the nail. The podiatrist uses a local anesthetic for the procedure.

THICKENED NAILS

• Thick or crumbling nails can be the result of but are not limited to injuries, fungal infections or diabetes. The nail may loosen and fall off in time.
• The symptoms are visually thicker than normal and may be yellowish in color, appearing both rough and brittle.
• Thickened nails can be a sign of an underlying medical condition and the podiatrist will then look into your medical history.
• The treatment may be the thinning of the nail. If an infection is present, an oral or topical antifungal medicine may be prescribed; preventing the fungus from spreading and ulcerations from forming under the nail. If there is severe pain, the podiatrist may remove the nail.

PREVENTION

• Wear shoes that support your feet and give your toes "wiggle-room". Trim your nails straight across and not down into the corner.

WARTS

• A virus caused infection that enters through small cuts. They develop into a hard growth on the surface of the skin. They are most common on the bottom of the foot called a Plantar Wart.
• They may appear alone or in clusters, able to reappear or spread to other parts of the body if not treated.
• Before the podiatrist treats the area he must determine that it is not a corn or callus. This is done by trimming the area; a wart will bleed in areas that a corn or callus will not.
• A couple treatments are medication or curettage. Using acidic medication, the wart is broken down. This treatment may need to be repeated. The wart can be removed with a small spoon shaped instrument after a local anesthetic is used.

PREVENTION

• After treatment by the podiatrist, keep your feet clean and dry. If you want to use over-the-counter medications, ask the podiatrist first as some can damage the skin and dangerous to those who have bad circulation and diabetes.

FUNGAL PROBLEMS

ATHLETE'S FOOT

• A chronic infection caused by various forms of fungus that thrive in warm, moist and dark places.
• The symptoms are scaling, itching, painful blisters and inflammation. It can begin between the toes or arch of the foot then spread to the rest of the foot.
• Over-the-counter medications can be used to eleviate the problem if it is not serious. If the problem persists and is serious, the podiatrist may prescribe a stronger medication.

PREVENTION

• Try to let your shoes air out between wearing them.
• Wear shoes made of breathable materials.
• Dry your feet completely and use powders to absorb moisture after bathing or showering.
• Wear natural fiber socks and change them regularly.
• Wear sandals when in public areas like the pool or locker room.

DRY SKIN

• This occurs when the outer layer is deprived of moisture (xerosis). This can be caused by overwashing and ridding the skin of important fatty acids that help lock in moisture.
• If left untreated heel fissures, cracks and athlete's foot may develop. This may in turn cause an infected skin ulcer to develop in patients with diabetes or peripheral vascular disease.
• The podiatrist may prescribe Lactinol to apply to your feet. Follow his/her directions as to its use.

• Follow the treatment options that the podiatrist has made for you.
• Use soap and water on your feet only once a day.
• Increase the humity in your home during winter.
• Use medicine as prescribed by the podiatrist.
• See the podiatrist for regular check-ups and call the podiatrist if you develop painful fissures and cracks.