Items filtered by date: December 2022

The extent to which an individual wears nail polish on their toenails may have some effect on how susceptible they are to developing toenail fungus. For example, a person shouldn't wear nail polish on their toenails at all times because despite the pop of color nail polish can provide, there are also many different detrimental effects this may produce on the feet. When an individual constantly wears nail polish on their toenails, the pigment from the nail polish can be essentially soaked up, causing the nails to become exceedingly dry. As a result of this, a fungus may become more likely. Rather than wearing toenail polish at all times every day, it is recommended that you take time off in between wearing polish on the toenails. This will give the toenails a chance to fully recuperate and breathe again. If you are interested in learning about more ways in which a toenail fungus can be prevented and how one can healthily wear toenail polish, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

For more information about treatment, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . 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 Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The extent to which an individual wears nail polish on their toenails may have some effect on how susceptible they are to developing toenail fungus. For example, a person shouldn't wear nail polish on their toenails at all times because despite the pop of color nail polish can provide, there are also many different detrimental effects this may produce on the feet. When an individual constantly wears nail polish on their toenails, the pigment from the nail polish can be essentially soaked up, causing the nails to become exceedingly dry. As a result of this, a fungus may become more likely. Rather than wearing toenail polish at all times every day, it is recommended that you take time off in between wearing polish on the toenails. This will give the toenails a chance to fully recuperate and breathe again. If you are interested in learning about more ways in which a toenail fungus can be prevented and how one can healthily wear toenail polish, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

For more information about treatment, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . 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 Wikesboro, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A common reason why blisters develop on the feet is friction. Wearing shoes that are too tight may result in excessive rubbing, causing blisters to develop on various parts of the feet. A blister is a small bubble that is filled with liquid, which protects the damaged skin. When new skin has formed underneath it, the blister will gradually drain. It is the body’s natural defense in protecting the skin, and it is important to refrain from prematurely popping it. An additional reason why blisters may form can include frostbite, causing tissue damage. There are various stages of frostbite, and blisters generally form in the second stage. Some people can develop blisters from an allergic reaction, or medical issues consisting of eczema, psoriasis, or shingles. If you have developed one or more blisters on your feet, please contact a podiatrist who can help you with treatment and discuss prevention methods with you.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Heel pain can cause misery to a runner’s daily routine. Many people who enjoy running or jogging have goals they like to meet, and this can become compromised with existing heel pain. It is important for runners to avoid getting the common foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis, and this can be done by implementing a few simple strategies. These consist of properly stretching the calf and heel before and after running, which can help to strengthen the ligaments that support the arch. Additionally, it is beneficial to gradually increase running speed and mileage, which can give the feet a chance to adapt to the changes. Allowing ample time for recovery is a key factor in preventing plantar fasciitis, and it helps to wear the right shoes for the desired style of running. There are certain people who may be prone to developing plantar fasciitis, including patients who are older, have had previous heel injuries, or have high arches. There are various treatments for heel pain, and it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose plantar fasciitis and offer correct pain relief options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD  from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Many people enjoy stretching their feet for the simple reason that it feels good. In addition to this, flexibility, range of motion, and stability can be improved when the feet are strong. The toes can become stronger by lifting and spreading them apart while sitting in a chair. The big toe is crucial for maintaining balance in the body, and mobility can be increased when it is frequently stretched. All the toes can become stronger when they are raised, pointed, and curled, and this is easily accomplished by keeping both feet flat on the floor, and lifting the front of the foot. An effective stretch for the arch of the foot is referred to as doming. This is done while having both feet on the floor, and attempting to grip the floor with the toes. There are various stretches that can be done for each part of the foot, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct foot exercises for you.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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