Laser therapy for fungal nails is an innovative treatment approach gaining popularity in the realm of podiatry. This non-invasive procedure harnesses the power of laser light to target and eliminate the fungal infection affecting the toenails. The laser's heat destroys the fungal cells while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed. This treatment is often preferred over oral antifungal medications as they can have side effects and may require prolonged use. One of the key advantages of laser therapy is its quick and virtually painless nature. Most patients require multiple sessions for optimal results, and there is typically no downtime after each session. Although laser therapy for fungal nails shows promise, it may not be effective for all cases, and results can vary from person to person. Ultimately, the goal is to restore healthy, clear nails and enhance overall foot health. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if laser therapy is the correct treatment method for you.
Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.
What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?
Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:
Nail thickening
Brittleness of the nail
Discoloration of the nail
Diagnosis for Fungal Nails
Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.
What Is Laser Treatment?
Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay,South Miami, and Homestead, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, can be a source of persistent discomfort and pain for many individuals. This common condition occurs when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. Understanding the root causes of flat feet pain is the first step toward finding effective solutions. One primary cause of flat feet pain is genetics. If you have a family history of flat feet, you are more likely to develop them. Additionally, injuries or overuse can contribute to the development of flat feet over time. Obesity and pregnancy can also put excess strain on the arches, exacerbating the condition. The good news is that flat feet pain can often be managed and relieved. Wearing footwear with proper arch support can significantly reduce discomfort. Stretching and strengthening exercises may help improve foot and leg muscle function, offering relief from pain associated with flat feet. In more severe cases, medical intervention or surgery may be considered. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who may prescribe custom orthotic inserts, which can provide tailored support.
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay,South Miami, and Homestead, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, or CMT, is a disorder of the peripheral nerves, responsible for transmitting information to and from the brain and spinal cord. CMT disrupts these nerves, leading to sensory loss and muscle deterioration. This results in symptoms like balance problems, foot abnormalities, pain, and difficulty walking. Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease is a progressive condition, worsening over time, and affecting about 150,000 people in the United States and 3 million worldwide. It is important to understand the peripheral nervous system to comprehend CMT. The peripheral nervous system links the central nervous system to organs, limbs, and skin, enabling the transmission of information and regulating functions like heartbeat and breathing. Nerve signals are carried by axons covered with myelin, akin to electrical wires in a home. CMT can cause myelin decay, slowing nerve signals and affecting longer limbs first. If you are having peripheral nerve damage affecting your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that will provide you relief with everyday functioning.
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 Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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:
Numbness
Sensation loss
Prickling and tingling sensations
Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
Muscle weakness
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 our offices located in Palmetto Bay,South Miami, and Homestead, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
