A fungal nail infection often begins subtly, showing up as a small change in color or texture on one nail. Over time, the nail may thicken, become brittle, or develop a yellow or white appearance. Some people notice a slight odor or feel pressure in the toe when wearing closed shoes. Although the condition is not usually painful at first, it can progress and spread to other nails, if it is not addressed. Warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, areas around pools, and sweaty shoes make it easier for fungi to thrive, which is why prevention and early care matter. Treating the infection can take time because the nail must grow out fully, but timely attention supports better results and healthier feet. If you see persistent changes in a toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & 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 our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to pain, redness, and infection. When the problem becomes persistent or severe, a podiatrist can perform a minor procedure to remove part or all of the ingrown toenail. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to keep the area numb. Depending on the severity, a podiatrist may perform either a partial or a total nail removal. A partial removal, called a wedge excision, is designed to eliminate the part causing irritation, where a total removal affects the entire nail. In some cases, a podiatrist may apply a chemical or use heat to prevent the problematic part of the nail from regrowing. After surgery, proper wound care and footwear that allows adequate toe space are important to help healing and prevent recurrence. If you have a problematic ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Using a cane properly can make a big difference in maintaining balance and reducing the chance of falls. When the height of the cane is adjusted so that the handle lines up with the wrist, it allows for natural movement without forcing the body to lean forward or strain the shoulders. A cane should be held on the opposite side of the weaker or injured leg, which shifts more weight onto the stronger side and helps the feet and ankles move with greater stability. Moving the cane forward at the same time as the affected foot allows both to share the load, making each step safer and more secure. On stairs, stepping up with the stronger leg first and going down with the cane and weaker leg first helps protect the feet from extra strain. A podiatrist can evaluate foot strength, ankle function, and overall gait to ensure the cane is used effectively. If you have balance or mobility problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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