Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is primarily caused by a type of fungi called dermatophytes. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Common sites of infection include public pools, showers, and locker rooms, where the fungus easily spreads from one person to another through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. The risk of developing toenail fungus increases with various factors, such as wearing tight, non-breathable shoes that trap moisture, having a minor nail or skin injury around the nail, or having a weakened immune system. Low blood circulation and slow nail growth can make people susceptible to contracting toenail fungus. Keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, and using antifungal sprays or powders in shoes and socks can help reduce the chances of contracting toenail fungus. If you are suffering from toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

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 one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails, a painful condition where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, can be managed through a range of treatments depending on severity. Initially, a podiatrist may use conservative approaches, such as soaking the foot in warm water, gently placing cotton underneath the nail to help the nail grow above the skin, and using antibiotic creams. If these methods do not provide relief or if the ingrown toenail grows back, other treatments may be necessary. Podiatrists often perform a minor procedure where part of the nail is removed to prevent it from growing into the skin again. Podiatrists can also perform a minor surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the nail along with the underlying tissue to reduce the nail's width and prevent future ingrown issues. These treatments aim to relieve pain, correct nail growth, and prevent infection. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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 offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, typically due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Different grades of ankle sprains vary depending on how much ligaments were damaged. Grade 1 sprains involve slight stretching of the ligaments with mild tenderness and swelling. Grade 2 sprains involve partial tearing of the ligaments, leading to moderate pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. Grade 3 sprains are the most severe, involving complete tearing or rupture of the ligaments, resulting in severe pain, swelling, instability, and sometimes a popping sound at the time of injury. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a podiatrist are important for managing ankle sprains effectively and preventing long-term complications like recurrent injuries. If you suspect an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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 offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.