September 2024

Toenail fungus is a common issue among the elderly, often overlooked but significant in maintaining overall foot health. As people age, their nails become thicker, more brittle, and slower to grow, creating an ideal environment for fungal infections. This condition, known as onychomycosis, typically begins as a white or yellow spot under the toenail and can progress to cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling edges. For elderly people, toenail fungus can be particularly troublesome due to weakened immune systems and difficulty in maintaining foot hygiene. Regular inspection of the feet, keeping nails trimmed, and wearing breathable footwear can help to prevent infections. Treatment often involves topical antifungal creams or, in more severe cases, oral medication. If you are elderly or helping to take care of an elderly person, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if symptoms of toenail fungus appear.

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 the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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 Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Surprisingly, weightlifting can be demanding on the feet, especially when using heavy resistance in exercises like squats, deadlifts, and lunges. This type of stress can lead to various foot injuries, particularly when combined with inadequate recovery time, poor footwear, or improper technique. Common foot issues related to weightlifting include plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and muscle strains, all of which can cause significant foot pain. Nerve-related problems such as Morton’s neuroma and tarsal tunnel syndrome are also possible. The risk of injury is higher if you have underlying foot conditions, such as flat feet or high arches, previous injuries, or limited flexibility. A podiatrist can evaluate these factors and help determine the best course of action to manage pain and prevent further injury. Treatment may include custom orthotics or recommendations for proper footwear to support your foot health during weightlifting. If you experience foot problems after lifting weights, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

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 our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.