Toenail fungus is a common nail infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm moist environments, and invade the nail through tiny cracks. Early signs include yellow-brown discoloration, dullness, and a slow-growing change in nail appearance. As the infection progresses, the nail may become thickened, brittle, and crumbly, sometimes producing debris and a foul-smelling odor. Causes include exposure to damp shoes, shared locker rooms, and weakened nail barriers. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, poor circulation, athlete’s foot, and frequent nail trauma. A podiatrist can confirm the infection, trim and thin thickened nails, and recommend targeted treatments that support clear nail growth. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Wendy L. Grossman, DPM of New Jersey. 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 contact our office located in Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Nerve pain in the foot can feel sharp, burning, tingling, or electric, and it may point to neuropathy or Morton’s neuroma. Neuropathy often develops gradually, and may be linked to diabetes, injury, or other medical conditions. The feet can feel numb, weak, or overly sensitive, and symptoms are often noticed in both feet. In contrast, Morton’s neuroma involves thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve between the third and fourth toes. Along with shooting pain or tingling into the toes, patients often describe the sensation  as being similar to standing on a pebble. The area may look normal, but squeezing the forefoot can reproduce the discomfort. A podiatrist will perform a detailed examination and may order imaging or nerve testing to determine the exact cause. Treatment can include custom orthotics, shoe changes, medication, or targeted procedures. If you have persistent nerve pain in the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Wendy L. Grossman, DPM  from New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Pickleball has grown in popularity among seniors, but quick stops, pivots, and lateral movements place significant stress on the feet and ankles. Recent studies estimate 19,000 pickleball injuries in adults over 50 in a single year. One of the most common injuries is an ankle sprain, which happens when the foot rolls during sudden direction changes. Players also develop Achilles tendon inflammation from repeated push-off movements, along with heel and arch pain caused by strain to the plantar fascia. The court surface increases impact forces, leading to stress fractures in the metatarsal bones. A podiatrist can use diagnostic imaging to identify bone injuries. Treatment may include bracing, immobilization, anti-inflammatory care, or custom orthotic devices to improve foot alignment. This helps to reduce stress during activity and prevent recurring injuries. If you experience foot or ankle pain after playing pickleball, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Athlete’s foot and fungal infections are common skin conditions that affect the feet and thrive in warm, moist environments. They are often caused by exposure to fungi in locker rooms, showers, and tight footwear. Symptoms include itching, burning, peeling skin, and cracking, especially between the toes or along the sole of the foot. In some cases, the skin can appear white, scaly, or soggy and may feel tender or painful when walking. Fungal infections can spread to the toenails or other areas, if left untreated. A podiatrist can begin care with a careful examination and may take a small skin sample to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include prescription topical or oral medications, hygiene education, footwear guidance, and follow-up care to prevent recurrence. Early treatment helps reduce discomfort and limits spread of the infection. If you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Wendy L. Grossman, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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