Items filtered by date: March 2025

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, causes discoloration, thickening, and in advanced cases, crumbling of the toenail. Fungal infections thrive in warm, damp environments, making places like swimming pool areas, gym locker rooms, and moist footwear ideal for growth. Symptoms of toenail fungus include nails turning yellow, brown, or green, as well as thickened nails that may become brittle or distorted. A podiatrist can effectively diagnose and manage toenail fungus through prescription antifungal medications or, in severe instances, surgery to remove the infected nail. Early intervention is important to avoid the infection spreading to adjacent toenails or to other people. Patients with diabetes should be especially vigilant because fungal nail infections can lead to sores or complications due to impaired circulation and healing. If you suspect you have a fungal toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Podiatry Care Specialists. 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 West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot issue, are more frequently reported in women than men, possibly due to footwear choices or hormonal differences affecting skin elasticity. These dry, thickened skin fissures can develop from prolonged standing, wearing open-backed shoes, or exposure to dry environments. Other risk factors include obesity, aging, and medical conditions like diabetes or eczema, which impair skin health. Prevention starts with keeping feet moisturized and exfoliated to remove dead skin. Wearing supportive, closed-back shoes and using heel balms with urea or salicylic acid can help maintain skin hydration and elasticity. If cracks deepen or cause pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist. They can debride thickened skin, recommend prescription-strength treatments, and address underlying conditions contributing to the problem.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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