Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi invade the nail bed, nail plate, or surrounding tissue. The infection can develop from dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds and often begins at the edge of the nail before spreading deeper. As the fungal infection progresses, the toenail can become thick, brittle, and discolored, turning yellow, brown, or white. In some cases, the nail separates from the nail bed, causing discomfort or pain while walking or wearing shoes. Affected nails can also produce a foul odor and crumble at the edges. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet enclosed in tight shoes or damp socks more vulnerable. A podiatrist can diagnose the type of fungal infection through visual examination and laboratory testing, helping determine the most effective course of treatment to restore healthy nail growth. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options, which may include prescribed medication.
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 Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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 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.
Bone spurs in the feet, also called osteophytes, form when the body produces extra calcium in response to stress, friction, or inflammation. These growths are not always painful, but they can interfere with nearby tissues and cause discomfort. Heel spurs are one of the most common types. They develop beneath the heel bone from strain on the plantar fascia or at the back of the heel due to tension from the Achilles tendon. Tarsal spurs occur in the midfoot, either on the top or bottom, and often make wearing shoes painful because of pressure against the spur. Toe joint spurs typically affect the big toe, leading to stiffness, limited motion, and pain while walking, especially when arthritis is present. A podiatrist can determine the cause of the bone spur, relieve pressure on surrounding structures, and recommend treatment. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
Hallux valgus, more commonly known as a bunion, is caused by a change in the alignment of the toes. A bump forms at the base of the big toe as the top moves inward toward the other toes. As the condition progresses, it can cause pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty in finding comfortable shoes. In some cases, the misalignment can result in additional issues like hammertoes. Bunions are often caused by an inherited foot structure, wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, and repetitive stress on the feet. Conditions like flat feet or arthritis can also contribute to the development of hallux valgus. A podiatrist can help manage bunions by offering conservative treatments, including custom orthotics, shoe modifications, and padding to alleviate pressure. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity and relieve pain. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, 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.
If you're suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn't wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your specialist for treatment and guidance through the healing process.
