The most common type of nail disorder is known as onychomycosis, which is the medical term for toenail fungus. It can be an unsightly foot condition, and many people may choose to wear shoes that have a closed toe to conceal the toenails. The noticeable symptoms that most patients experience consist of yellowed toenails which have become thick, and in severe cases, may fall off. There may also be black or white spots at the bottom of the nail, which may spread to the entire surface. Toenail fungus is considered to be contagious, and is often found in warm and moist environments. These can include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. It is strongly advised that appropriate shoes such as flip flops or water shoes be worn while in these types of areas, which may help to stop the spread of toenail fungus. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials, and use disinfectants and antifungal powder inside the shoes to help the feet feel better. If you see the beginning signs of toenails fungus, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment methods.

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

• 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 office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Learning how the foot functions can be a critical step that individuals can take in understanding how they can best care for their feet. One important biomechanical aspect of how the foot functions is that each foot has a number of joints that serve different, important functions. Each toe has a certain number of joints, and interestingly, not all toes have the same number of joints. For example, the big toe has only two joints, while the other toes have three. The names of the three different joints found in toes besides the big toe are known as the metatarsophalangeal joint, the proximal interphalangeal joint, and the distal phalangeal joint. Joints form where bones meet and are covered by a certain amount of cartilage. For more information about joints in the feet and other facts about the biomechanics of the feet, contact a podiatrist today for more information. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs from the toes to the heel under the foot. Known as the plantar fascia, this tissue is more likely to become damaged if you are middle-aged, overweight, or have a job that requires you to be on your feet for long periods. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs mainly from overuse and is especially common among runners and other athletes that continually pound their feet on hard surfaces. Many people can reduce or even eliminate the effects of plantar fasciitis by resting, icing, and massaging the feet for 20 minutes a day. Other tips include wearing shoes with ample cushioning in the heel and arch support. A number of simple exercises can prove helpful in reducing the pain from plantar fasciitis. If these simple measures don’t work, please consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and options for more advanced treatment.  

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 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.

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 Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.