Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toe nails may start out as small nuisances, but if left untreated, they can become much larger problems. Occurring when a segment of the toenail embeds itself in the skin around the nail, ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, swelling and a feeling of warmth to the affected toe. If the nail digs far enough into the flesh to break the skin, an infection can result. Whether you are in need of treatment or would like to know how to best prevent ingrown toenails, Dr. Harry Cotler of the Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center in Soldotna, AK can help.

While some people are just more prone to ingrown nails than others, ingrown nails are often caused by improper trimming techniques. They can also be caused by repeated impact, ill-fitting shoes, poor hygiene, excessive sweating or stubbing the toe. Minor ingrown toenails can oftentimes be treated at home if you’re in good health and no infection is present. To do this, first soak the foot to soften the skin. Then massage the affected area to loosen the troublesome part of the nail.

If the ingrown toe nail persists after five days, is extremely painful or infected, physician care is necessary. Antibiotics may be prescribed to fight infection, and if the nail is deeply embedded, outpatient surgery may be required.

To prevent and treat ingrown toenails and preserve the health of your feet, schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler of Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center in Soldotna, AK by calling (907) 260-3668. For more information about Dr. Cotler and his practice, visit www.hcotler.com.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection the effects the toenails or fingernails. It is the most common disease of the nails and constitutes about half of all fungal abnormalities. This condition causes the nail to become discolored and become thick. As the infection progresses, the nail can become brittle and possibly fall off.

 

At first glance, onychomycosis appears to be only a cosmetic concern. However, without treatment, the toenails can become abnormally thick forcing the toe to press against the inside of the shoes, causing pressure, irritation, and pain. Onychomycosis is very treatable with a podiatrist. In most cases, onychomycosis can be treated in the following ways:

• Medications – prescription of topical or oral antifungal medications can be given to provide relief
• Light – depending on the severity of the condition, light can be used for treatment. Fungi are sensitive to heat, so laser treatment to heat the nail bed will disrupt fungal growth
• Removal of nail – by removing the affected part of the nail, the fungus cannot spread and affect other toes or the rest of the foot

Nail fungus, such as onychomycosis should be treated as quickly as possible. These conditions can cause permanent damage to nails if left untreated. It can also lead to other serious infections for those with weakened immune systems. There are many risk factors that come with onychomycosis. Patients who are of poor health, advanced age or have a family history of fungal infections are at particular risk.

 

Talk to us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center today to see what your treatment options are. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center in Soldotna, AK, by calling 907-260-3668 or visit us online at www.hcotler.com.

Work-Related Foot Problems

When it comes to work-related foot injuries, it doesn’t matter what line of work you’re in, you are at risk of foot injuries. While most foot injuries occur off the job, there are a number of work-related factors that can lead to foot problems, especially in jobs that require long periods of standing.

 

The main thing to remember when you’re thinking about your foot health while working is choosing the right footwear. Poor footwear that does not fit properly heavily contributes to foot disorders. You should look for the following in a pair of work shoes:

• Flexibility – footwear should stretch and grow with your feet
• Comfort fit – sometimes feet are different sizes so make sure to measure both feet when shopping
• Timing – buy your new shoes in the late-afternoon when feet are swollen to their maximum size
• Shock-absorbing – if the shoes you’re looking at don’t have shock-absorbing qualities, buy insoles. Your feet will thank you if you’re walking around a lot as part of your job.

Next time you have an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler, tell him about your job and ask what types of shoes you should wear, he’s happy to help! We treat all types of foot pain, so if you aren’t sure what you have just call for an appointment. The most work-related pain we treat is:

• Bunions
• Hammertoe
• Arch disorders
• Heel spurs
• Corns and callouses
• Ingrown toenails