Items filtered by date: July 2024

Dealing with nail fungus can be more than just a cosmetic concern. It can affect your comfort and confidence. Symptoms often start subtly with discoloration, usually yellow or brown, and thickening of the nail. As the infection progresses, nails may become brittle, crumbly, or even emit a foul odor. Beyond appearance, nail fungus can cause discomfort. Nails might feel tender or sore, especially when wearing shoes or applying pressure. In severe cases, it can lead to difficulty walking or performing daily activities. Effective treatments range from over-the-counter antifungal creams to prescription medications or nail lacquers. Maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing breathable footwear, and avoiding shared pedicure tools can help prevent recurrence. If you suspect nail fungus, do not delay seeking professional advice. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the infection and recommend the best course of treatment.

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 Nashville Family Foot Care. 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As babies and children explore their surroundings, falls are an inevitable part of their journey to independence. However, implementing precautionary measures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Start by creating a safe environment with secured gates at staircases and window guards to prevent falls from elevated surfaces. Ensure furniture is anchored to the wall to prevent tipping and keep floors clutter-free to minimize tripping hazards. When it comes to infants, always supervise them during diaper changes and avoid leaving them unattended on elevated surfaces such as changing tables or sofas. For toddlers and older children, teach them the importance of using handrails when climbing stairs and encourage safe play practices, such as not running indoors or jumping from high places. Additionally, provide age-appropriate toys and equipment and supervise them during activities such as climbing, swinging, or riding bikes. Many children’s feet can be affected from falling, which can hinder enjoying daily activities. If your child has fallen and has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions, and guide you on more effective fall prevention techniques for your children.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often causing pain and discomfort, especially when walking or standing for long periods. They typically form in response to strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot. Heel spurs are commonly associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or repetitive stress injuries. Factors such as obesity, wearing unsupportive shoes, and having high arches or flat feet can also contribute to the development of heel spurs. Symptoms may include sharp pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after a long period of rest. There are numerous options when it comes to treating or preventing the formation of heel spurs. Rest, stretching exercises, orthotic inserts, injections, or surgery in more severe cases may be necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of heel spurs, it is suggested you seek professional evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist to ensure your pain is alleviated and your health is protected.

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 Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 our office located in Nashville, TN . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Orthotics are devices inserted into shoes to support, align, or improve the function of the feet. They help relieve pain and prevent injuries by redistributing pressure and providing support to specific areas of the foot. This can alleviate issues such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overpronation, reducing strain on muscles and joints. Although there are various types of orthotics, rigid, semi-rigid, and soft, determining which type works best for an individual's condition can be somewhat unpredictable. The effectiveness of orthotics largely depends on the specific foot problem and the unique biomechanics of the patient. For optimal results, it is suggested that if you are interested in understanding more about orthotics, you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can perform a thorough evaluation of your foot condition and overall health and determine if orthotics are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Limb salvage surgery is a critical procedure used to avoid foot or toe amputation due to severe injuries, infections, or cancers. During the surgery, doctors remove the damaged or diseased parts of the foot while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This requires advanced reconstruction techniques to keep the foot functional. Limb salvage surgery helps patients maintain physical abilities and provides significant emotional benefits to enhance the overall quality of their lives. Complex Infections, such as osteomyelitis, can destroy bone and surrounding tissue, requiring careful surgical intervention. Additionally, conditions like bone cancers, severe diabetic ulcers, and peripheral artery disease can severely impair blood flow and tissue health, making limb salvage surgery necessary to prevent amputation. If you or someone you know struggles with severe trauma, infections, bone cancers, diabetic ulcers, or poor circulation affecting your feet, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment options.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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