Nail Fungus

Many people don't realize they have a fungal nail problem and, therefore, don't seek treatment. Yet, fungal toenail infections are a common foot health problem and can persist for years without ever causing pain. The disease, characterized by a change in a toenail's color, is often considered nothing more than a mere blemish. Left untreated, however, it can present serious problems.

Also referred to as onychomycosis, fungal nails are infections underneath the surface of the nail, which may also penetrate the nail. Fungal nail infections are often accompanied by a secondary bacterial and/or yeast infection in or about the nail plate, which ultimately can lead to difficulty and pain when walking or running. Symptoms may include discoloration, brittleness, loosening, thickening, or crumbling of the nail.

A group of fungi, called dermophytes, easily attack the nail and thrive on keratin, the nail's protein substance. In some cases, when these tiny organisms take hold, the nail may become thicker, yellowish-brown, or darker in color, and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks may frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails.

Nail bed injury may make the nail more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection. Those who suffer chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. Other contributory factors may be a history of Athlete's Foot or excessive perspiration.

You can prevent fungal nail infections by taking these simple precautions:

• Exercise proper hygiene and regularly inspect your feet and toes.
• Keep your feet clean and dry.
• Wear shower shoes in public facilities whenever possible.
• Clip nails straight across so that the nail does not extend beyond the tip of the toe.
• Use a quality foot powder (talcum, not cornstarch) in conjunction with shoes that fit well and are made of materials that breathe.
• Avoid wearing excessively tight hosiery, which promotes moisture. Socks made of synthetic fiber tend to "wick" away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks, especially for those with more active lifestyles.
• Disinfect home pedicure tools and don't apply polish to nails suspected of infection.

Depending on the type of infection you have, over-the-counter liquid antifungal agents may not prevent a fungal infection from recurring. A topical or oral medication may need to be prescribed, and the diseased nail matter and debris removed, a process called debridement. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications.

In severe cases, surgical treatment may be required to remove the infected nail. Permanent removal of a chronically painful nail, which has not responded to any other treatment, permits the fungal infection to be cured and prevents the return of a deformed nail.

If your nail requires professional care call FAMILY FOOT CARE at 704-786-4482 or visit our website at http://www.familyfootcare.info/.

Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis

Heel pain is a very common foot problem. Many people experience pain after being on their feet for a long period of time or with the first steps in the morning.
Some helpful tips are to not walk barefoot. Keep a pair of supportive shoes close by that you can slip on in the morning. Stretch your calf muscles daily. Increasing the flexibility of your calf muscles. Make sure your shoes are supportive, and not too flexible. You can also try over the counter orthotics for your shoes.
When stretching and shoe changes do not work, it may be time to see a professional for further care. At FAMILY FOOT CARE we can prescribe custom orthotics and provide further treatment modalities to help eliminate your pain. We have 3 locations to serve you. 704-786-4482. Visit us in Concord 1022 Lee Ann Drive; Harrisburg 6602 Roberta Road; Locust 209 Town Center Drive.

Ingrown toenails

Curved toenails?

Are you toenails so curved that they look like and upside down “u”? You may have chronic ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails can be genetic or caused by external factors such as the shoes you wear and how your toenails are trimmed.
Avoid digging down into the nail fold or cutting the edges of the nail. When you try to trim the toenail yourself you can cause the ingrown toenail to get worse, or even infected.
To prevent ingrown toenails, the nail should be trimmed straight across. Ensure that your shoes are fitting properly so they do not cause extra pressure on the toenail. If your ingrown toenail requires professional care call FAMILY FOOT CARE. We have 3 locations to serve you. 704-786-4482.
Visit us in Concord 1022 Lee Ann Drive; Harrisburg 6602 Roberta Road; Locust 209 Town Center Drive.