Onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. This condition occurs when dermatophyte fungi invade the nail bed, typically thriving in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes or communal showers. Additionally, yeast and mold can also contribute to the development of onychomycosis. Several factors increase the risk of contracting this infection, including aging, poor circulation, and a weakened immune system. Other factors include trauma to the nail and pre-existing conditions like diabetes or athlete's foot. Furthermore, habits such as walking barefoot in public areas or sharing nail grooming tools can facilitate fungal transmission. Onychomycosis not only affects the aesthetic appearance of the nails but can also cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in walking if left untreated. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options which often include prescribed medication for complete healing.
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 Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor 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 Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Daily habits for diabetic foot care are essential to prevent complications that can arise from diabetes, such as infections and ulcers. Regular inspection of the feet for cuts, blisters, or red spots can help address any issues head-on. It is also important the feet are kept clean and moisturized, while avoiding lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infection. Proper shoe choice can enhance comfort and prevent blisters. It is helpful not to walk barefoot to reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, managing blood sugar levels helps maintain healthy circulation and nerve function in the feet. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist play a key role in diabetic foot care. These foot doctors can professionally assess the health of your feet, provide specialized care for any issues detected, and offer personalized advice on proper foot care practices. These visits help in early detection and treatment of potential foot problems, reducing the risk of serious complications. If you are a diabetic patient at risk for foot complications, it is suggested that along with daily foot care, you add a podiatrist to your health care team.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Properly fitting shoes help you maintain foot health and avoid a range of foot conditions, including bunions, calluses, and plantar fasciitis. To ensure that your shoes fit correctly, start by shopping in the late afternoon or evening, as feet tend to swell throughout the day. This will help you find a size that accommodates your feet when they are at their largest. Make sure to have both feet measured, as it is common for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Choose the size that fits the larger foot comfortably. There should be about a thumb's width of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe to allow for movement and expansion as you walk. The shoe should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot, without being too tight. This will prevent slippage that could lead to blisters or calluses. Choose shoes with a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally without constriction. Also, consider the shoe's material and arch support, especially if you have specific foot conditions or needs. Podiatrists can provide suggestions for the best shoes for your feet, especially if you are suffering from particular foot conditions. It is suggested that you discuss this topic with a podiatrist to reduce the risk of developing foot problems and enhance your overall foot comfort and health.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Minimally invasive foot surgery, known as MIS, involves performing surgical procedures with smaller incisions and specialized instruments, often utilizing advanced imaging technology for precision. This approach reduces tissue damage, postoperative pain, and recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. For bunions, MIS techniques focus on correcting the bony deformity at the base of the big toe with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. Podiatric surgeons may use small incisions to access and realign the bones, remove excess bone or tissue, and stabilize the joint with screws or other fixation devices. MIS for bunions offers several advantages over open surgery, including faster recovery, reduced risk of complications like infection and scarring, and less postoperative pain. It is particularly suitable for mild to moderate bunions with minimal joint involvement and flexible deformities. However, severe bunions or those requiring extensive bone correction may still require traditional open surgery for optimal outcomes. If you have discomfort from a bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether surgery might be a good option for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Daily habits for diabetic foot care are essential to prevent complications that can arise from diabetes, such as infections and ulcers. Regular inspection of the feet for cuts, blisters, or red spots can help address any issues head-on. It is also important the feet are kept clean and moisturized, while avoiding lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infection. Proper shoe choice can enhance comfort and prevent blisters. It is helpful not to walk barefoot to reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, managing blood sugar levels helps maintain healthy circulation and nerve function in the feet. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist play a key role in diabetic foot care. These foot doctors can professionally assess the health of your feet, provide specialized care for any issues detected, and offer personalized advice on proper foot care practices. These visits help in early detection and treatment of potential foot problems, reducing the risk of serious complications. If you are a diabetic patient at risk for foot complications, it is suggested that along with daily foot care, you add a podiatrist to your health care team. 
Properly fitting shoes help you maintain foot health and avoid a range of foot conditions, including bunions, calluses, and plantar fasciitis. To ensure that your shoes fit correctly, start by shopping in the late afternoon or evening, as feet tend to swell throughout the day. This will help you find a size that accommodates your feet when they are at their largest. Make sure to have both feet measured, as it is common for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Choose the size that fits the larger foot comfortably. There should be about a thumb's width of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe to allow for movement and expansion as you walk. The shoe should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot, without being too tight. This will prevent slippage that could lead to blisters or calluses. Choose shoes with a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally without constriction. Also, consider the shoe's material and arch support, especially if you have specific foot conditions or needs. Podiatrists can provide suggestions for the best shoes for your feet, especially if you are suffering from particular foot conditions. It is suggested that you discuss this topic with a podiatrist to reduce the risk of developing foot problems and enhance your overall foot comfort and health.
