Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is caused by fungal organisms that infect the nail bed, often thriving in warm, moist environments like sweaty socks or communal showers. It may look like thickened, discolored nails that are yellow, white, or brown, sometimes with brittle or crumbly edges. In some cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed, causing discomfort or pressure when wearing shoes. Many individuals notice a change in nail texture and thickness before experiencing pain. Toenail fungus progresses slowly and can take months to become noticeable, making early intervention important for effective treatment. A podiatrist can diagnose onychomycosis through careful examination and sometimes laboratory testing to confirm the specific fungal organism. Treatment options include debridement to reduce nail thickness, prescription topical or oral antifungal medications, and advice on proper nail care and hygiene to prevent recurrence. If you notice persistent changes in your toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running places repeated stress on the feet, and even small imbalances can lead to injury. Among the most frequent issues runners face are plantar fasciitis, metatarsal stress fractures, Morton’s neuroma, and tendon irritation around the ankle. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, while stress fractures occur when tiny cracks form in the metatarsal bones from repetitive impact. Morton’s neuroma causes pain between the toes from nerve irritation, and tendon problems such as peroneal or posterior tibial tendinitis can develop from overuse or improper footwear. A podiatrist can help by evaluating gait, ordering imaging studies such as X-rays, prescribing orthotics, or recommending footwear that provides proper structure and alignment. In severe cases, surgery might be required to repair damage or stabilize the foot. If you have incurred a foot injury while running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a common foot condition that causes a visible bony protrusion to form at the base of the big or pinky toe. Bunions vary in severity, so while some may be mild, others can be painful. If a bunion is causing discomfort or pain, this could potentially lead to other foot ailments due to a shift in gait. Treatment for bunions usually begins with a change in footwear. Wearing narrow, tight, and pointed footwear can intensify an already existing bunion. Switching to wider shoes that fit properly and offer support should help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with bunions. Shoe inserts that help improve arch support and toe spacers are also recommended in treating bunions. If these conservative methods don't provide relief, it is suggested that you consult with a local podiatrist. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden pain, redness, and swelling, often in the big toe. While it is more common in men, gout in women typically appears after menopause when uric acid levels may rise. Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and renal dysfunction, all of which can affect how the body processes uric acid. Symptoms may come on suddenly and cause intense discomfort, stiffness, and warmth in the affected joint. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage pain, and recommend lifestyle changes or medications to prevent future flare-ups. If you have intense joint pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.