A noticeable sign of an existing toenail fungus is often a discoloration of the nail. It can be accompanied by a thickening of the nail, and it may appear to be brittle. This contagious condition is caused by a fungus that lives in warm and moist environments. These areas can include public pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. If you frequent these places, it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes, which may be helpful in preventing toenail fungus. Patients who enjoy getting pedicures must ensure that the tools that are used are clean and sterile. Additional sources of contracting toenail fungus can consist of wearing shoes and socks that prevent ventilation, or medical conditions such as diabetes and weakened immune systems. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.

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 Livingston Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures can be common among athletes. They can happen as a result of the consistent pressure that the bones of the feet endure during the athlete’s chosen sport. Stress fractures are defined as small, hairline fractures in the bones which may make walking and running difficult. Common symptoms can include pain surrounding the affected bone, which may improve when the foot is resting and elevated. Some patients experience bruising and swelling, accompanied by achiness. Additionally, stress fractures may gradually develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly, and this may weaken the foot bones. If you have pain in your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat stress fractures. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

A toenail that grows into the skin on the sides of the toe is known as an ingrown toenail. Research has shown that a baby's toenails are soft and pliable, and if it is accompanied by swelling and redness, it may be an ingrown toenail. Additional symptoms of this condition can include pain and difficulty keeping shoes on. Some of the reasons this ailment may occur can consist of trimming the toenails incorrectly, wearing shoes that are too tight, and it may run in families. Your child’s foot may feel better when it is soaked in warm water, and the swollen area is gently massaged. If your child has these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Swollen feet and ankles occur when fluid builds up in the tissues, causing puffiness and discomfort. This condition can result from standing for long periods of time, hot weather, sitting too long, or lingering effects of old injuries. While mild swelling is often temporary, persistent swelling may signal underlying circulation issues, joint problems, or other medical concerns. Risk factors include aging, obesity, pregnancy, and certain health conditions, such as heart or kidney disease. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, provide treatment options, and recommend lifestyle changes or supportive footwear to reduce discomfort. If your feet and ankles are consistently swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective management tips. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Foot corns are areas of thickened skin that develop when pressure or friction is repeatedly applied to certain parts of the feet. They often result from wearing shoes that are too tight, high heeled, or poorly fitted, which places excess pressure on the toes or soles. Corns can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty walking, if not addressed. Prevention includes wearing properly fitted shoes with cushioned soles and protective padding to reduce friction. A podiatrist can safely remove corns, recommend orthotics, and guide you on proper footwear choices to stop them from returning. If you have a painful corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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