Athletes, or those who regularly partake in sporting activities may run the risk of getting a foot or lower extremity injury. One common sports injury is known as a stress fracture. Stress fractures can occur due to overuse, or repetitive actions that may cause strain for the body and create a small crack in the bone. To help prevent this type of injury, it’s important to make sure that you use the proper equipment and footwear when training. Getting proper nutrition and slowly increasing the difficulty of your training are important factors in maintaining a healthy exercise routine, as well as in preventing overuse. For more advice on how to prevent sports injuries like stress fractures, please consult with a podiatrist.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Retaining fluid and swelling in your feet is extremely common during pregnancy. The swelling may be especially noticeable at the end of the day, during hot weather, or after standing for long periods of time. There are several things that you can do at home that may bring you mild relief. Resting and elevating your feet for at least 20 minutes at the end of the day may help reduce swelling. Eating a balanced diet with less salt and drinking plenty of water is suggested to reduce excessive fluid retention. Gentle, regular exercise and wearing wide, supportive shoes can make you more comfortable as well. For more information on how to deal with fluid retention and swelling in your feet during pregnancy, consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Patients who have pain between the toes may be experiencing a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. This condition is a result of a compressed nerve and can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Additionally, it may occur from participating in sporting activities such as running and dancing. Some patients have a foot structure that can lead to developing this ailment, and existing foot conditions including hammertoes and bunions may contribute to the onset of Morton’s neuroma. The pain and discomfort can range from a tingling to a burning sensation, and can radiate to the ball of the foot. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly recommended that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Athlete’s Foot is a common fungal infection of the foot. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot, known as the tinea fungus, thrives in dark, warm, moist environments. This makes areas that are often tightly covered and sweaty, like your feet, a perfect breeding ground for tinea fungus. To prevent athlete’s foot, it’s important to keep your feet as dry as you can. Avoiding wearing tightly-fitted shoes, which can trap moisture, and frequently changing your socks can also help in the prevention of athlete’s foot. If possible, wear open-toed sandals, which will allow more air to circulate to your feet and decrease sweating. Open-toed sandals also have the added benefit of exposing your feet to sunlight, which helps slow the growth of the fungus. If you suspect that you may have athlete’s foot, consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat the problem.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Peripheral neuropathy, which can cause weakness, numbness, and pain in your feet, might make you reluctant to exercise. However, there is scientific evidence that you can benefit from physical activity. Researchers have found that exercising can improve balance, strength, and walking speed, reduce neuropathic pain and sensory disturbances, and improve mobility and confidence in patients with peripheral neuropathy. Doctors recommend that patients with peripheral neuropathy engage in flexibility, endurance, strength, and balance exercises to get maximum results. A podiatrist can help you maintain an active and healthy lifestyle by providing treatments to slow the progression of the disease, decrease your pain, and maintain the health of your feet.
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 one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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:
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 one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Children who frequently participate in running and jumping activities may complain about heel pain. It may be indicative of a condition that is referred to as Sever’s disease, which affects the growth plate in the heel. It may become irritated as a result of repetitive motions during specific sporting activities. Parents may notice that their child begins to walk with a limp, and the back of the heel may be swollen. It is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot, and it may help to relieve a portion of the pain when the calf muscles are stretched. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
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There are patients that develop a bony growth on their heel, and this may be referred to as a heel spur. A common symptom that is generally associated with this ailment can include pain and discomfort after arising in the morning. Research has indicated it can form in patients who have plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia. Mild relief may be felt when the affected foot is taped, as this may help to provide extra support. Additionally, it can help to rest the foot as often as possible, and to lose existing weight in obese patients. In severe cases, a heel spur can be surgically removed. If you have heel pain that may indicate a heel spur, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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Common symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness and tenderness surrounding the edges of the nail. If your child complains of toenail pain, it may be indicative of an ingrown toenail. Additionally, there may be a discharge oozing if the nail has become infected, and it may cause severe pain and discomfort. This condition can be the result of trimming the toenails improperly, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It may feel better when your child soaks the affected toe in warm water, as this may help to soften the skin. If you or your child has an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment options.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. 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
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 one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Plantar warts develop on the bottom of the feet. They grow into the sole of the foot as pressure is endured from walking during the day, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. They appear as small, hardened areas, and may have black dots in the center. These develop as a result of blood vessels that grow inside the wart. Plantar warts are caused by a virus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These types of places can include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. Patients who have a weakened immune system may be prone to getting plantar warts, in addition to people who have a history of developing this type of wart. It is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist if you have a plantar wart, who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles. It is located in the back of the leg, near the foot, and is responsible for the ability to point and flex the foot. An injury can cause the Achilles tendon to become ruptured or injured, and this generally causes severe pain and discomfort. Some of the symptoms that many patients can experience include sharp pain at the time of the injury, bruising, swelling, and it is often difficult to walk. This type of injury can happen as a result of participating in running and jumping movements, or if a new activity begins suddenly. Effective treatments can include wearing a brace or cast as the healing process occurs, and in severe tears, surgery may be necessary. If you have pain in your calf, it is strongly advised that you speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can treat an Achilles tendon injury.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Rupture Symptoms
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Athlete’s foot is a contagious condition, and as its name suggests, is often common among those who participate in sporting activities. Athlete’s foot can be identified by a few different symptoms. These indicators may include cracking or peeling blisters between the toes, redness and scaling on the soles of the feet, rashes and bumps on the feet, and itchiness. Even though the name is athlete’s foot, this condition can develop for anyone. Not wearing the proper footwear in warm and moist environments can lead to developing athlete's foot, as that is where fungi tend to thrive. These environments can include public swimming pools, communal showers, gyms, and locker room floors. If you believe you have developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you seek the help of a podiatrist for proper and professional care.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Research has indicated many people pay little attention to their feet until there is pain and discomfort. This may be prevented by practicing daily foot care habits. These can include stretching the feet, trimming the toenails correctly, and keeping the feet clean. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, which may be helpful in preventing unwanted foot conditions from developing. These can consist of ingrown toenails, bunions, blisters, and hammertoe. When the skin becomes dry, it is suggested that a good moisturizer is applied. If you would like additional information about the importance of proper foot care, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition caused by an enlarged nerve or thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Those who have experienced this condition often relay feeling pain in the ball of their foot. Common symptoms that can accompany Morton’s neuroma include burning in the ball of your foot that can also be reached in the toes, a numbing or tingling sensation felt in the toes, and feeling as if a pebble is stuck inside your shoe. To help relieve the discomfort of Morton’s neuroma, patients have found custom orthotics and acupuncture to be beneficial. In order to properly diagnose this condition and to receive prompt treatment, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for professional care and attention.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term that is used to define excessive sweating. Some patients have feet that sweat for the majority of the day, and this is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. It may happen as a result of anxiety, hormonal changes, or living in a hot environment. This condition may cause embarrassment during the day as the feet begin to slide in certain types of shoes. Additionally, rashes may develop, and there may be an odor coming from the feet. It is beneficial to wear shoes that are made of breathable materials, and comfort may be found when foot powder is frequently sprinkled in the shoes. If you have symptoms of plantar hyperhidrosis, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Toenail fungus is an unsightly foot condition that develops as a result of a fungal infection. This is considered to be contagious, and can be found in warm and moist environments. These often include public swimming pools, communal shower room floors, and locker rooms. Additionally, patients may develop this condition from having pedicures with tools that may not be properly disinfected. Existing medical conditions may lead to developing toenail fungus, which may consist of having diabetes, or a compromised immune system. If a toenail injury has occurred, it may weaken the nail, which may make it prone to contracting a fungus. Common symptoms that are associated with this ailment can include the toenail becoming thick and yellowed, and in severe cases, it may become brittle and fall off. It is suggested that if you see symptoms of a toenail fungus developing, that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
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 Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
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 one of our offices located in Brunswick, Damariscotta, Augusta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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