Tuesday, 19 March 2024 00:00

Toenail fungus is an infection that commonly affects the toenails. It occurs when fungi invade the nail bed, leading to discoloration, thickening, and deformity of the nails. One of the most noticeable symptoms of toenail fungus is the gradual change in the appearance of the affected nails, which may turn yellow, white, or brown, and become brittle or crumbly. As the infection progresses, the nails may thicken and develop a distorted shape, causing discomfort and difficulty when wearing shoes. Several risk factors contribute to the development of toenail fungus, including poor foot hygiene, prolonged exposure to moist environments, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and having a weakened immune system. If you believe you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment methods, which may include prescribed medicine or laser treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

Total ankle replacement, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a significant surgery aimed at relieving ankle pain. During the procedure, the surgeon removes parts of the shin bone, or tibia, and the top portion of the foot's highest bone, the talus, replacing the ankle with plastic or metal components. After surgery, you will likely have a cast, boot, or splint on your leg for approximately a month, and you will not be able to put weight on it immediately. You may need crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter during this time. It is important to have assistance at home during the initial recovery period. You will be discharged with bandages and stitches or staples, which your doctor will advise you on when to remove. Post-surgery, you may experience mild pain and swelling, for which your doctor may prescribe medication. Rehabilitation exercises, which are important for regaining strength and mobility, will continue for several weeks. Returning to work depends on individual recovery speed and job requirements, with certain movements or weight-bearing activities possibly restricted. If you have had your ankle replaced, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who will provide personalized recovery steps for the most successful outcome.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

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Sunday, 10 March 2024 00:00

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!

Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

Foot stress fractures are hairline breaks in bones that are caused by repeated stress rather than a specific injury. Though tiny and difficult to detect, stress fractures can be a painful and debilitating condition. They typically occur in the lower leg, particularly in the metatarsal bones of the midfoot. They result from repetitive weight-bearing activities that exceed the capacity of muscles and tendons to absorb stress. Symptoms include pain during these types of activities, gradually becoming worse. Metatarsal stress fractures, also known as march fractures, are common among runners who rapidly change workout intensity. They also affect poorly conditioned individuals carrying heavy loads, such as newly recruited soldiers. Diagnosing foot stress fractures involves X-rays or a bone scan, as standard X-rays may not reveal the fracture until several weeks after the injury. It may be necessary to stop weight-bearing activities for up to three months. This period allows the bone to heal and regain its strength. Risk factors include high foot arches, inadequate shock-absorbing shoes, and thinning bones. For help with metatarsal foot pain that can be caused by stress fractures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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