Fungal nail infections, or onychomycosis, often affect the toenails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, brittle, or misshapen. These infections are usually caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, or inside sweaty shoes. They can also develop after a nail injury or if the immune system is compromised. Early symptoms may include white or yellow spots under the nail, changes in nail texture, and a foul odor. As the infection progresses, the nail may become painful, lift from the nail bed, or crumble at the edges. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection through a nail sample and offer a range of treatment options. These may include topical or oral antifungal medications, laser therapy, or, in some cases, removal of the infected nail. They can also help prevent reinfection through hygiene guidance and proper foot care. If you have a fungal nail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP of Georgia. 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 Peachtree City and Newnan, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Webbed toes, also known as syndactyly, refer to a condition where two or more toes are fused together by skin, soft tissue, or, in rare cases, bone. This occurs during early fetal development when the toes fail to separate completely. Webbed toes are often inherited and may appear as an isolated trait or as part of a genetic syndrome. In most cases, the condition does not cause pain or interfere with walking, although it may be noticeable in appearance. Environmental factors during pregnancy, such as exposure to certain medications or substances, may also contribute to its development. Webbed toes can vary in severity and may be found in both feet or just one. While usually harmless, surgical correction is an option for individuals who desire a change in function or appearance. If you have been born with this condition and are experiencing discomfort, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss relief options, including the possibility of surgery.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP of Georgia. 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 Peachtree City and Newnan, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Big toe pain can be incredibly painful and disruptive, affecting your ability to walk or wear shoes comfortably. The pain can be caused by a number of factors, including injury, toenail problems, or gout. An injury to the big toe, such as a sprain or fracture, can cause throbbing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the toe. Toenail issues, like ingrown toenails or fungal infections, can lead to sharp pain, redness, and tenderness around the nail. Gout, a type of arthritis, often targets the big toe, causing sudden, intense pain, swelling, and a feeling of heat, typically at night. Symptoms of big toe pain include sharp or throbbing pain, swelling, redness, or a decreased range of motion. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the underlying cause of the toe pain through a physical exam and imaging tests. Treatment may include medication, proper footwear, toenail care, or even surgery for more severe cases. If you are dealing with big toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP of Georgia. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Peachtree City and Newnan, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.