Toenail fungus is an infection that affects the toenail and the skin underneath it. It often causes the nail to become thick, yellow, and brittle, or to lift away from the nail bed. Fungal toenails are more common in older adults, especially those with diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system. Fungus grows well in warm, damp places like sweaty shoes. For that reason, people who wear tight or closed shoes for long hours or use shared shower areas may be more likely to be exposed. The infection usually starts slowly and can become worse over time if not treated. Because toenails grow slowly and have less blood flow than other parts of the body, treating a fungal nail infection can take several months. A podiatrist may prescribe oral medication to fight the infection from the inside, or use topical treatments for mild cases. In more serious situations, surgery to remove the damaged nail might be recommended. If you have been infected with a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

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 Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often causes sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, and most commonly affects the big toe. The pain may start at night and can be intense enough to wake someone from sleep. Gout is accompanied by severe pain, causing difficulty in completing daily activities. Several factors increase the risk of developing gout. These include a diet high in red meat or seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain health conditions such as hypertension or kidney disease. Genetics may also play a role. If you have pain in the joints of your feet, particularly the big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose gout and offer management options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch too far or tear, often due to the sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Recovery time for a sprained ankle varies depending on its severity. For instance, a mild ankle sprain, involving slight overstretching, may heal in one to three weeks, but a moderate sprain, which includes partial tearing of the ligaments, usually requires three to six weeks of healing. Severe sprains that involve a full tear of the ligament can take up to three months or even longer to recover, especially if surgery is necessary. Healing time can also be affected by a person's age, body weight, activity level, and any previous ankle injuries. Trying to walk on an injured ankle too soon or ignoring symptoms can prolong the recovery timetable and lead to chronic ankle instability. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the sprain, confirm the diagnosis with imaging as needed, and develop a treatment plan that protects the ankle and promotes full healing. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.