Toenail fungus manifests in several forms, each with distinct characteristics. Subungual onychomycosis is the most common type, occurring beneath the nail plate and leading to thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. White superficial onychomycosis affects the nail's surface, causing white, crumbly spots that can spread and cover the entire nail if untreated. Candida onychomycosis, caused by yeast, often targets nails already damaged or exposed to moisture. This type results in swelling, pain, and a yellow-brown discoloration. Proper diagnosis by a podiatrist is essential to determine the specific type of infection and appropriate treatment. Antifungal medications, whether topical or oral, are typically used to combat these infections, helping restore nail health and prevent further complications. If you have developed a toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat the type you have.

For more information about treatment, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Congenital foot problems encompass a range of conditions that affect foot development from birth. Clubfoot is characterized by inwardly turned feet and twisted ankles, often requiring corrective casting or surgery early in infancy. Larsen syndrome involves multiple joint abnormalities, including clubfoot, and requires comprehensive manipulation. Metatarsus adductus causes the front part of the foot to turn inward, usually resolving with stretching exercises or corrective shoes. Metatarsus varus results in a curved appearance of the foot bones, treated similarly to metatarsus adductus. These conditions can impact mobility and foot alignment if left untreated, potentially leading to discomfort and difficulties in walking. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for addressing congenital foot problems, often involving a combination of specific techniques to promote proper foot development and functionality from infancy through childhood. If your child has been born with a congenital foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you have a podiatrist on your healthcare team who can guide you to an effective treatment strategy.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Pain in the big toe can arise from a variety of sources affecting its joints, muscles, tendons, and nerves. Chronic big toe pain ranges from dull aches to sharp, tingling sensations, similar to pins and needles. Other symptoms associated with big toe pain include numbness, burning sensations, difficulty moving the toe, and visible swelling. Among the common causes of big toe pain are arthritis, bunions, and calluses, all of which often worsen by natural wear and tear. Injuries like strains and  sprains can also contribute to toe pain. In addition, inflammatory conditions, such as gout or bursitis, and structural problems, like hammer toe or nerve compression, can further complicate matters. Ignoring persistent toe pain can lead to serious complications including chronic discomfort, disability, and nerve damage. Seeking prompt medical attention from a podiatrist is important. This foot doctor can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of chronic big toe pain and suggest effective treatment strategies. If pain in the big toe worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. It typically occurs due to repetitive strain or overuse, often seen in runners, individuals with high arches or flat feet, and those who stand for prolonged periods. The pain from plantar fasciitis is usually sharp and most intense with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. It may decrease with movement but can return after long periods of standing or walking. Relief can consist of rest, stretching exercises, and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Wearing supportive shoes and using orthotic inserts can also help. Preventative measures involve maintaining a healthy weight, performing regular foot stretches, and avoiding excessive strain on the feet. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain and other complications. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Alex Kim, DPM  from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.