Morton's Neuroma

Morton’s Neuroma is a condition that makes it feel like you are “walking on a marble.”  This condition usually forms between the third and fourth toes. It is caused by irritation, trauma or excessive pressure. Morton’s Neuroma is eight to ten times more likely to occur in women than men because of their shoe choices.

 

If you are suffering from Morton’s Neuroma, there are no outward symptoms such as a bump or bulge. Common symptoms include a burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness sensation in the toes and a feeling of something inside the ball of the foot. The symptoms occur gradually and will intensify with overuse or improper footwear. You can temporarily diminish the pain by massaging the foot or by avoiding the activities that brought on the pain.

 

If symptoms persist or worsen over time, is might be time to visit us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center. Treatment can come in many forms, such as:

• Changes in footwear – avoiding high heels or tight shoes enables the bones to spread out and may reduce pressure on the nerve, giving it time to heal
• Custom orthotics – custom shoe inserts and pads can be prescribed to relieve irritation. The orthotics will lift and separate the bones, reducing pressure on the nerve
• Injections – Corticosteroid medication can be prescribed to reduce swelling and inflammation in the nerve

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. 

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.