When Toenails Change Color and Texture

Fungal infections affect the appearance and health of the toenails. The toenail may become thickened, brittle, or distorted. It often turns yellow, white, or brown. In some cases, debris can build up under the nail, and it may lift slightly from the nail bed, causing discomfort or pressure while wearing shoes. This condition develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. This often occurs in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or public areas. A podiatrist can examine the nail, confirm the presence of an infection, and determine the most effective treatment. Care may include trimming and thinning of the nail, topical or oral antifungal medication, and guidance on proper foot hygiene to prevent recurrence. Early treatment can improve outcomes and reduce spread to other nails. If you have symptoms of fungal toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM of Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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How Diabetes Puts Your Feet in Danger

Diabetes can place the feet at serious risk due to damage that affects both nerves and blood flow. Nerve damage, called peripheral neuropathy, reduces the ability to feel pain, heat, or injury, so a small cut or blister may go unnoticed. Poor circulation, or reduced blood flow, caused by diabetes can slow healing and increase the chance of infection. These problems may lead to ulcers, or open sores, that can become severe, if not treated early. Skin may also become dry and prone to cracking, creating a pathway for infection. A podiatrist can examine the feet, check sensation, assess circulation, and identify early signs of damage before complications worsen. Imaging, wound care, and pressure-relieving devices may be used to protect the feet and support healing. Regular medical evaluation plays an important role in preventing serious long-term complications. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to help manage the effects of this serious condition.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. 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.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. 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 offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Dangers of Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency that can develop in the foot after a severe injury, like a fracture or crush injury. The foot contains groups of muscles held within tight spaces called compartments, surrounded by a firm tissue known as fascia. When swelling or bleeding occurs, pressure can build inside these spaces and reduce blood flow. This limits oxygen to the muscles and nerves, leading to intense pain, swelling, and a tight or firm feeling in the foot. People may also notice numbness or tingling, often described as a pins-and-needles sensation. Pain may worsen with toe movement. If not treated quickly, compartment syndrome can lead to muscle damage, deformity, and long-term loss of foot function. A podiatrist can conduct a physical exam, order imaging, and perform surgery to relieve pressure. If you have symptoms of compartment syndrome, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Causes of a Dislocated Toe

A dislocated toe occurs when one of the toe bones is forced out of its normal position, often resulting in pain, swelling, bruising, and a visibly crooked appearance. A child can dislocate a toe during common activities like running, playing sports, or stubbing their foot, which may cause immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. The second toe is the most commonly affected due to its position and involvement in weight-bearing activities. A dislocated toe can make walking difficult and may lead to further complications, if left untreated. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the dislocation, realign the toe safely, provide supportive taping or splints, and recommend targeted exercises to restore mobility and prevent future injury. If you or your child have incurred a toe injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM of Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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