Items filtered by date: March 2025

Tuesday, 25 March 2025 00:00

Managing Fungal Toenail Infections

Toenail fungus causes toenails to become brittle, crumbly, discolored, or misshapen. In some cases, the nails may thicken, separate from the nail bed, or emit a foul odor. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making it easy to contract in places like locker rooms or public shower areas. Symptoms include pain or discomfort when wearing shoes or walking. The condition can also spread to other nails or skin, if left untreated. Treating toenail fungus can be challenging, as visible results often take months due to the slow growth of toenails. Available treatments include topical medications, oral antifungal drugs, and laser therapy. Podiatrists often recommend a combination of oral and topical treatments for the best results. However, oral medication may come with side effects, and topical treatment may not be as effective for severe cases. If you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Save Your Soles. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Think of foot orthotics as custom-built shock absorbers for your feet, designed to realign, cushion, and enhance every step. More than just insoles, they serve as personalized tools that adapt to the way you walk, helping to correct imbalances, reduce pain, and prevent long-term issues. Whether you are dealing with heel pain, arthritis, or just tired, achy feet, orthotics work behind the scenes to distribute pressure evenly, absorb impact, and improve posture. They can even help with knee, hip, and lower back pain by addressing misalignment at the foundation. Not all orthotics are created equal, and what works for one person might not work for another. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess your needs and recommend the best option, ensuring the right fit for comfort, support, and long-term foot health.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Save Your Soles. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes

Do you work on your feet all day and find your feet in pain? Don't go to work in pain each day. Your foot pain can be treated, and we can help.

Plantar fasciitis is not just about overuse. It is often about the shoes you wear. The wrong shoes can strain the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue supporting your arch, making every step painful. Flat, unsupportive shoes like flip-flops or worn-out sneakers force the fascia to overstretch, leading to inflammation. High heels shift weight forward, tightening the Achilles tendon and putting extra stress on the heel. Even walking barefoot on hard surfaces can aggravate symptoms. Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support and cushioning can make a huge difference. A firm, yet flexible sole, a slight heel drop, and a snug, but not tight, fit help reduce strain. Orthotics or insoles may also provide relief. If your plantar fasciitis persists, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment and footwear recommendations.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Save Your Soles. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

Falls are a common concern among older adults and can lead to serious injuries. One major factor contributing to falls among seniors is the decline in physical fitness that naturally occurs with aging. As strength, flexibility, and coordination decrease, the risk of losing balance increases. Impaired vision, which becomes more prevalent with age, can make it difficult for seniors to detect obstacles or changes in their environment, raising the likelihood of tripping or stumbling. Medication side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness, can also increase the risk of falls, especially when multiple medications are taken simultaneously. Chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease can affect mobility, making it harder to move safely. Additionally, surgical procedures or recovery from surgery can lead to temporary weakness, affecting balance and stability. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and educate you on additional fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Save Your Soles. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention

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