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One of the symptoms that is associated with toenail fungus is yellowed nails. Additionally, the nails can become brittle, and in severe cases, may fall off. Onychomycosis, also known as a fungal nail infection, is caused by the fungus entering the nail through small cracks. This type of fungus lives in warm and moist areas, typically consisting of public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding environments. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to the development of toenail fungus. These can include diabetes, a poor immune system, or problems with blood circulation. Prevention techniques can consist of keeping the feet dry, avoid sharing nail clippers, and wearing appropriate shoes while frequenting these types of areas. If you have toenail fungus, it issuggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can determine what the correct treatment is for you.

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 Central Valley Foot & Ankle. 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 Visalia, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects the big toe and can cause severe joint pain. Gout is three times more likely to affect men than women. A proper diagnosis will require a podiatrist to assess the foot and rule out other possible diagnoses. Upon a gout diagnosis, medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids may be prescribed. However, the typical primary treatment method for gout involves reducing uric acid levels in the blood. While there are many prescriptions that may help reduce these levels, diet is key. Avoiding high purine foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol will help reduce uric acid levels. If you believe that you are suffering from gout, consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

It can be difficult to wear shoes comfortably when suffering from a hammertoe. There are several reasons that the middle toes can bend downward at the joints and resemble a hammer. These consist of genetic factors, arthritic conditions, or from an injury that may have occurred. Additional foot conditions may develop, including corns and calluses forming on top of the toes. These can be the result of consistent friction that can come from walking or running. Many patients find mild relief when larger shoes are purchased, and it may help to cover the top of the toes with a protective pad. If you notice the beginning signs of hammertoe, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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