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February 2019

Monday, 25 February 2019 00:00

Can Toenail Fungus Be Avoided?

The foot condition that is known as toenail fungus may be common among people who have a weakened immune system or are over sixty years old. The medical name for this type of fungus is referred to as onychomycosis (OM), and typically lives and thrives in warm and moist areas, without needing sunshine. It can enter the body through small cuts in the skin, or possibly through an opening in the nail, which can penetrate through to the nail bed. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include yellowed and thickened nails which may easily lift off, or mild discomfort may be felt. There may be measures that can be implemented which may help to prevent toenail fungus. These may include avoiding sharing shoes, washing and drying the feet completely, and keeping the toenails shortly trimmed.  If you have symptoms of a toenail fungus, it is advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.

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 Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. 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 office located in Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Monday, 18 February 2019 00:00

Three Degrees of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries that people face, especially if they are involved in sports. Most ankle sprains are caused by the foot pointing downward then twisting inward. This unfortunate movement causes damage to the ligament on your outer ankle and results in immediate ankle pain. There are three degrees of ankle sprains, Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III. The higher the grade, the worse the sprain is. In a Grade I sprain only a few tissue fibers are torn, while in a Grade II sprain a larger amount is torn. A Grade III sprain describes a complete tear of the ligament and requires the most intensive treatment out of the three, along with a longer recovery period. If you think you have sprained your ankle, then it is highly recommended you consult with a podiatrist to learn about treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. 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 office located in Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 11 February 2019 00:00

Different Types of Foot Pain

There are numerous causes and types of foot pain that many patients may experience over the course of their lifetimes. These may include fractures, sprains, injuries to the Achilles tendon, or objects that may have become imbedded. A type of arthritis which is referred to as gout can cause severe pain and discomfort, and this may last for several days. If shoes are worn that fit incorrectly, corns or blisters may develop, and this may cause pain while walking. Research has shown warts may cause discomfort, and this may be especially true if the wart grows into the heel of the foot, which is known as a plantar wart. If the nail should grow into the surrounding skin, tenderness and redness will often accompany this ailment. Additionally, a common foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis may cause extreme pain and discomfort, and this may be a result of inflammation of the band of tissue that is located on the sole of the foot. It is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and begin correct treatments for any type of foot pain.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

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Monday, 04 February 2019 00:00

What Is a Stress Fracture?

Overuse of the muscles in the feet may lead to a condition that is known as stress fractures. This may occur when the muscles undergo repeated impact which may result in a tiny fracture in the bone. The majority of stress fractures occur in the metatarsals, which is the portion of the foot that is thinner and longer, and bears the most weight while walking or running. Additionally, this type of fracture may occur in the heel or on top of the foot. It may be prevalent among people who may change or suddenly increase the intensity of their workout, or from wearing shoes that fit improperly. There are patients who may have medical conditions which may include osteoporosis. This may weaken the bones, and performing daily activities may prove to be difficult. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Nooshin Zolfaghari from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
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