Thursday, August 2, 2012
Polish Problems
If you are dealing with fungal toenails, you have probably painted over the fungus with nail polish in order to wear your cute new sandals. No big deal, right?
You may or may not be surprised to learn that most over the counter polishes contain many harmful ingredients like formaldehyde. Polishing up your discolored toenail may actually contribute to the problem!
Dr.'s Remedy polish is the only doctor approved polish, as it contains anti-fungal ingredients and vitamins and oils to treat your nails. You're probably thinking that a polish approved by a doctor must only come in ugly colors. Fear not my polish lovers! Dr.'s Remedy enriched nail polish comes in a multitude of colors from Blissful red to healing gray. The polish is available in our office as well as through our online product store.
If you are experiencing any problems with your toenails, make an appointment with a podiatrist. It is important to see a doctor to ensure the problem doesn't spread or is not being caused by an underlying problem with your feet. Contact us at 419-423-1888 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
Friday, July 13, 2012
How Do You Get Fungal Toenails?
If you are dealing with fungal toenails, you may be wondering how you got them in the first place. Fungal toenails are caused by a group or fungi called dermatophytes or yeasts and molds. Fungi live in warm, moist areas, can invade your skin through cuts or between your nail and nail bed, and cause problems when your feet are continually exposed to moisture and warmth. Fungus can develop on your toenails because your feet are usually confined in shoes; a dark, warm environment perfect for those pesky fungi.
These things will put your more at risk for developing fungal toenails...
To prevent fungal nails from recurring make sure you use proper foot hygiene. Keep nails short, dry, and clean, wear properly fitted socks, don't go barefoot in public places. It is also smart to avoid the temptation to wear nail polish over your fungal toenails as it may cause the problem to worsen. If you go to a salon for a pedicure bring your own tools, like the kit pictured above which can be purchased through our online product store.
These things will put your more at risk for developing fungal toenails...
- Aging
- Diminished Blood Circulation
- More Years of Exposure to Fungi
- Slowly growing, thicker nails are more susceptible to fungus
- Heavy Perspiration
- Working or Living in a Humid Environment
- Wearing shoes and socks that don't breathe
- Going barefoot in public areas like pools or showers
- Athlete's foot
- Diabetes
- Circulation Problems
- Weakened Immune System
To prevent fungal nails from recurring make sure you use proper foot hygiene. Keep nails short, dry, and clean, wear properly fitted socks, don't go barefoot in public places. It is also smart to avoid the temptation to wear nail polish over your fungal toenails as it may cause the problem to worsen. If you go to a salon for a pedicure bring your own tools, like the kit pictured above which can be purchased through our online product store.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Tips for Healthy Nails
It is important for most people to have clear toenails for cosmetic reasons. However, don't forget about the importance of getting your nails healthy. Try these little tips for getting healthy nails and preventing fungal infections from occurring.
- Wear dry cotton socks, and change them two or three times a day if necessary.
- Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet (tight, enclosed, moist shoes contribute to fungal toenail infections).
- Wear shower sandals or shower shoes when you are at a public pool or shower.
- Don't share shoes or socks with others.
- Don't share nail clippers or nail files with others. You may want to purchase a personal pedicure kit for yourself, like the one pictured above. It includes several items including, all natural tea tree and lavender essential oil, a nail brush, a nail file, pummace sponge, toe separators, orange stick, sliding tray case for all tools and is available through our product store.
- Try not to injure your nail, such as by cutting it too short (trauma to the nail may lead to infections).
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Prevent Fungal Nails
After a fungal nail infection has cleared up, you can take steps to prevent the infection from coming back.
Keeping the fungus under control will help prevent a fungal infection of the skin from reinfecting the nail. Before bed, thoroughly wash and dry your feet, and apply a non-prescription anti-fungal cream to the entire foot from the ankle down. Use the cream every night, then gradually apply it less often. Keep your feet dry. Dry feet are less likely to become infected. Apply powder to your dry feet after you take a shower or bath.
Other tips:
- Don't share nail clippers or nail files with others.
- Don't share shoes or socks with others.
- Try not to injure your nail, such as by cutting it too short (trauma to the nail may lead to infections).
- Wear dry cotton socks, and change them two or three times a day if necessary.
- Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet (tight, enclosed, moist shoes contribute to fungal toenail infections).
- Wear shower sandals or shower shoes when you are at a public pool or shower.
Follow basic foot care guidelines and you more than likely can head off most common foot fungus problems.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Ohio Nail Laser Center
A fungus infection of the toenail, also known as onychomycosis, is one of the most common dermatologic disorders affecting the foot. Whereas Ringworn is a dermatophyte fungal infection of the skin, onychomycosis is a dermatophyte fungus infection of the nail. The disease is characterized by a thickening of the toenail plate, debris under the toenail, a lifting of the leading edge of the nail, a change in nail color and occasionally an odor. Patients complain that toenail fungus is ugly and embarrassing. This condition is often ignored because the infection can be present for years without causing any pain.
If ignored, the infection can spread to other toenails, the skin on the feet (ringworm or tinea pedis) and even the fingernails. Severe cases can impair one's ability to walk or lead to painful ingrown toenails. Secondary bacterial infections may occur on or around the toenail plate.
Prevention tips include:
Now with the Noveon dual wavelength laser, treatment for fungal nails is easy, effective and without the risk of side-effects from oral medication.
If ignored, the infection can spread to other toenails, the skin on the feet (ringworm or tinea pedis) and even the fingernails. Severe cases can impair one's ability to walk or lead to painful ingrown toenails. Secondary bacterial infections may occur on or around the toenail plate.
Contributing factors for developing nail fungus infection include:
- A history of athlete's foot
- Injury to the nail bed
- Sports / Shoe trauma
- Excessive perspiration
- Diabetes
- Circulatory problems
- Immune-deficiency conditions
Prevention tips include:
- Proper hygiene, i.e. washing the feet with soap and water.
- Dry thoroughly; use powder as a drying agent.
- Daily inspection of the feet and toes
- Shower shoes should be worn when possible in public areas.
- Wear shoes that are breathable.
- Bring your own instruments/nail polish to a pedicurist
Treatment for Fungal Nails
Historically, treatments for fungal nails included topical medications, oral agents (pills) or surgical removal of the nail plate. The topical medications were largely ineffective. Oral agents have been known to affect the liver and blood tests needed to be monitored to prevent damage. Removal of the nail plate was painful and debilitating.Now with the Noveon dual wavelength laser, treatment for fungal nails is easy, effective and without the risk of side-effects from oral medication.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Fungal Nail Infections
Onychomycosis, or fungal nails, is a condition in which one or more toenails is infected by fungi. If you are suffering from this condition, don't be embarrassed. Over ten percent of the population has onychomycosis and it is not caused by hygiene. This condition can be transmitted in public areas like public showers or pools. According to Mayoclinic.com, nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections.
However,you should not let it ruin your sandal wearing days! You may have onychomycosis if you have any or all of the following symptoms.
- Thick Nails
- Crumbly Nails
- Deformed Nails
- Dull Nails
- Nails Dark In color
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Are You Embarassed to Wear Sandals? We Can Help!
| Laser Fungal Treatment |
The sun is shining and that means people are digging their sandals from out of their closets and buying the latest trends in summer footwear. However, if you are suffering from fungal toenails, you may be too embarassed to show off your cool new kicks. Fungi are microscopic organisms that don't need sun to survive (making winter the perfect time for them to get ahold of your toenails!) Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. Our office can offer you with laser fungal treatment to diminish your fungal nails and free your feet from those sneakers! The Noveon laser utilizes two specific wavelengths of laser light for advanced microbial destruction. The uniqueness of the Noveon therapy lies in the fact that it harnesses a patented near-infrared photo-inactivation effect, to achieve the elimination of bacteria and fungi, while preserving healthy tissue. The result of Noveon therapy is to advance the recovery process with virtually no side effects. Once your nails are sandal-ready, you may want to paint them. However, most nail polishes contain harsh chemicals that are dangerous to your nails. NOURISH is a premium line of natural and organic nail polish, developed by podiatric physicians and pharmacists at Barefoot Botánica. NOURISH is the safe, organic alternative to typical “toxic cosmetic” nail polishes on the market. But don’t think a nail polish with clinical advantages has to look “clinical”—NOURISH lacquers are rich, luxuriant and quite sublime! It is available at Advanced Footcare Clinic Website through the product store. Call our office today at 419-423-1888 to start your journey to sandal-ready nails!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Formula 3
The Advanced Footcare Clinic is dedicated to helping your feet look and feel their best, and Formula 3 can help you on the pursuit for clear toenails. Over 35 million Americans struggle with fungal nails, if you are ready to be one less, Formula 3 can help.
According to MayoClinic.com, nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. Fungal nail infections are most likely to occur in dark moist places like swimming pools, and showers.
If you are tired of being embarrassed by your feet, try formula 3. One bottle can be used to treat two large toenails for at least four months. It is simple and easy to use, odorless, and does not stain.
Formula 3® has:
• An easy to apply brush that allows you to get under and around nails and nail beds.
• A blend of all natural oils, it will not irritate the skin or build up on the nail and require removal.
• No drying time. Absorbs in seconds!
• A fast working formula that gives you healthier looking nails. Most patients see new healthy growth at the cuticle root in just 4-6 weeks of use.
• An unconditional, Patient Direct, Money back guarantee from Manufacturer
Why wait? Start fighting your fungus today with formula 3, and beautiful toenails can be yours. Visit our online product store and vailfoot.com for more products to help achieve and maintain clear toenails.
According to MayoClinic.com, nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. Fungal nail infections are most likely to occur in dark moist places like swimming pools, and showers.
If you are tired of being embarrassed by your feet, try formula 3. One bottle can be used to treat two large toenails for at least four months. It is simple and easy to use, odorless, and does not stain.
Formula 3® has:
• An easy to apply brush that allows you to get under and around nails and nail beds.
• A blend of all natural oils, it will not irritate the skin or build up on the nail and require removal.
• No drying time. Absorbs in seconds!
• A fast working formula that gives you healthier looking nails. Most patients see new healthy growth at the cuticle root in just 4-6 weeks of use.
• An unconditional, Patient Direct, Money back guarantee from Manufacturer
Why wait? Start fighting your fungus today with formula 3, and beautiful toenails can be yours. Visit our online product store and vailfoot.com for more products to help achieve and maintain clear toenails.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Safe Toenail Trimming
One reason that toenail fungus can be spread at a nail salon is not using sanitary tools. If any tool is re-used before being sanitised, it can result in the spread of toenail fungus. You should double check the procedures at your nail salon to be sure that they are operating a sanitary business. Another way to double check that you are receiving sanitary care is to bring your own instruments. Many people feel more comfortable knowing that the instruments for their pedicure are used only for them. This means that you can clean and sanitize your own tools, as well as guaranteeing that you won't be sharing any germs that can cause Fungal nail infections, Athletes foot, Bacterial infections, Warts, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
If you are looking for a convenient pedicure kit, then we have such a product on our online store. Just visit: http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/store/item.asp?ITEM_ID=480 to see the SOS Safe Salon Pedicure Kit. This kit includes all natural tea tree and lavender Sole Savior Essential Moisturizing Oil (15ml), a professional grade cuticle nipper, a nail clipper, a cuticle pusher and curette cleaner, a nail brush, a nail file/buffer, a foot file, and toe separators (2 sets). All of this comes in a convenient case to help you keep it organized. Perhaps with all these tools you will feel confident in your ability to perform your own pedicures, saving you the time and money of going to the nail salon. These kits also make great gifts.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Findlay's Day of Dance
The event will be held on Saturday, February 27th from 10:00am to 2:00pm. It will be in the University of Findlay's Koehler Center and the admission fee is a toothbrush and/or tube of tooth paste for charity. There is no preregistration required. Any questions can be directed to 419-423-5551. We look forward to seeing you that Saturday to enjoy yourself and learn all about women's health needs.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Two Quick Tips
Here are two quick tips for keeping your feet free from the fungi that cause athlete's foot and toenail fungal infections:
1. Use foot powder. There are many powders available for your shoes. The powder helps absorb the moisture released as your feet sweat throughout the day. Fungi thrive in moist, dark, warm environments, and removing the moisture helps you battle the fungi. It also helps reduce odors as bacteria in your sweat are what cause foot odor. When the sweat isn't absorbed into your shoes, it won't leave a residual smell in them. If you sweat excessively, you should change your socks and re-powder your shoes in the middle of the day. Remember to alternate shoes every day as the day off gives them a chance to dry out between wears. If you sweat excessively, you can make an appointment with your podiatrist to discuss treatment options and because the doctor can recommend products that go beyond the treatment of the typical foot powder.
2. Lysol your shoes. Using a disinfectant spray on your shoes kills the fungi and bacteria living in your shoes. This will help reduce the risk of fungal infections and reduce foot odor. You should spray your shoes and then let them air dry. You can speed the drying along with a hair dryer, but be careful not to shove the dryer down in the shoes and burn out the motor. Lysoling your shoes once a week will eliminate any fungus that may have developed while you were wearing those shoes and helps protect your feet.
Try these two tips not only along with treatment of a fungal infection, but as preventative measures against the appearance or return of fungi. If you notice the signs of a fungal infection in any of your nails, contact your podiatrist and schedule an appointment. Treatment is more effective when it is started early.
1. Use foot powder. There are many powders available for your shoes. The powder helps absorb the moisture released as your feet sweat throughout the day. Fungi thrive in moist, dark, warm environments, and removing the moisture helps you battle the fungi. It also helps reduce odors as bacteria in your sweat are what cause foot odor. When the sweat isn't absorbed into your shoes, it won't leave a residual smell in them. If you sweat excessively, you should change your socks and re-powder your shoes in the middle of the day. Remember to alternate shoes every day as the day off gives them a chance to dry out between wears. If you sweat excessively, you can make an appointment with your podiatrist to discuss treatment options and because the doctor can recommend products that go beyond the treatment of the typical foot powder.
2. Lysol your shoes. Using a disinfectant spray on your shoes kills the fungi and bacteria living in your shoes. This will help reduce the risk of fungal infections and reduce foot odor. You should spray your shoes and then let them air dry. You can speed the drying along with a hair dryer, but be careful not to shove the dryer down in the shoes and burn out the motor. Lysoling your shoes once a week will eliminate any fungus that may have developed while you were wearing those shoes and helps protect your feet.
Try these two tips not only along with treatment of a fungal infection, but as preventative measures against the appearance or return of fungi. If you notice the signs of a fungal infection in any of your nails, contact your podiatrist and schedule an appointment. Treatment is more effective when it is started early.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Winter Moisturizer
Pedifix Mango Magic Foot Lotion
Instantly Moisturizes Skin with Healthy Nutrients
Pamper your feet! This salon-style lotion will soothe and soften rough, dry feet and refresh your skin. It features mineral oil, aloe vera, vitamin E, lanolin and urea to nourish your skin while it stimulates your senses with the tropical-fresh scent of mangos. Also works great as an all-over body lotion.
8 oz. Bottle
Massage cream into skin as needed, particularly after bathing and just before bedtime.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Proper Toenail Trimming
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Footcare in the News
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tendon which connects the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. This injury is common not only for athletes. It is often the result of overuse, acute trauma (like in Manning's case), wearing footwear without adequate supports, and working/standing/walking on hard surfaces. The condition is usually conspicuous through symptoms like pain in and around the heel and bottom of the foot, tightness in the arch of the foot, and swelling and inflammation of the heel and tendon. Often people experience the pain from this injury in the morning, and it subsides as the tendon stretches out during the course of the day. It is also common to experience pain after sitting (resting) and getting back up after being on your feet for extended periods.
There are a number of treatments for plantar fascia. Taping can help relieve the pressure on the tendon, as can wearing a night splint over night to avoid tightening of the tendon. Often a stretching program or physical therapy can help strengthen the plantar fascia. Orthotic inserts for the patient's shoes are a very common treatment as well, and they tend to be effective even in difficult cases. Cortisone shots are also recommended frequently. Our office also offers APC (autologous platelet concentration) injections and ESWT (electronic shock wave therapy) to aid in sever cases of plantar fascia. The APC injection helped Hines Ward return from a knee injury just in time to aid the Steelers in their 2009 Superbowl win. One or a combination of these treatments could help Manning return to good playing condition and reduce his pain throughout the season.
If you are experiencing pain from plantar fascia, or any foot pain, do not hesitate to contact our office. Many people delay the treatment of this condition because they think they need to just bear the pain. This is not true. There is no reason to suffer when we can help you find relief.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Risk Factors for Fungal Nail Infections
There are a number of factors which can influence your risk of contracting a nail fungus. These events or considerations can influence how your body fights against and interacts with different fungi-causing agents.
-Tight Footwear. Wearing footwear that is too tight crowds your toes together. The result of this is that they tend to stay warmer, promoting sweating, and fungi grow best in warm, moist locations. This makes sizing your shoes correctly important, not only for your comfort, but so that your toes get the appropriate amount of air.
-Exercise. Although good for your over-all health, exercise can cause repeated minor trauma to your nails. This allows fungi to get a foot hold on your nail, providing the physical location for them to grow and also access to the inside of the nail. Keep in mind that you are of greater risk if you tend to slam your feet into the front of your shoes, whether when running or doing an activity which requires you to stop quickly and repeatedly. Wearing tight shoes can be a factor here again, as your foot doesn't have the necessary room inside your shoes. This is not to discourage you from your favorite exercises, but to remind you to check your toenails and between your toes regularly. Most people who exercise regularly are also prone to fungal infections which cause athlete's foot, hence the name. You should check for fungal infections regularly, and be sure to wash your feet thoroughly.
-Communal showers. Communal showers are used mostly in conjunction with pools, locker rooms, and residence halls. Because of the amount of traffic through these shared showers, it is more likely that they have been exposed to fungi. It is a good idea to keep a pair of flip flops or other shower sandals handy where ever you are exposed to a communal shower. Keep them in your dorm room, work out bag, locker, or pool tote. They can help reduce your foot's exposure to fungi.
-Immune deficiencies. If you have an immune deficiency for any reason (perhaps due to illness, disease, or birth defect) your body has a hard time fighting off fungi, as well as all pathogens. You need to check your feet for any signs of fungi regularly and wash your feet thoroughly every day. You may also want to invest in a product like FungaSoap or Tea Tree Soaks which have been featured on this blog. These products help kill the fungus before it can grow on your feet.
-Tight Footwear. Wearing footwear that is too tight crowds your toes together. The result of this is that they tend to stay warmer, promoting sweating, and fungi grow best in warm, moist locations. This makes sizing your shoes correctly important, not only for your comfort, but so that your toes get the appropriate amount of air.
-Exercise. Although good for your over-all health, exercise can cause repeated minor trauma to your nails. This allows fungi to get a foot hold on your nail, providing the physical location for them to grow and also access to the inside of the nail. Keep in mind that you are of greater risk if you tend to slam your feet into the front of your shoes, whether when running or doing an activity which requires you to stop quickly and repeatedly. Wearing tight shoes can be a factor here again, as your foot doesn't have the necessary room inside your shoes. This is not to discourage you from your favorite exercises, but to remind you to check your toenails and between your toes regularly. Most people who exercise regularly are also prone to fungal infections which cause athlete's foot, hence the name. You should check for fungal infections regularly, and be sure to wash your feet thoroughly.
-Communal showers. Communal showers are used mostly in conjunction with pools, locker rooms, and residence halls. Because of the amount of traffic through these shared showers, it is more likely that they have been exposed to fungi. It is a good idea to keep a pair of flip flops or other shower sandals handy where ever you are exposed to a communal shower. Keep them in your dorm room, work out bag, locker, or pool tote. They can help reduce your foot's exposure to fungi.
-Immune deficiencies. If you have an immune deficiency for any reason (perhaps due to illness, disease, or birth defect) your body has a hard time fighting off fungi, as well as all pathogens. You need to check your feet for any signs of fungi regularly and wash your feet thoroughly every day. You may also want to invest in a product like FungaSoap or Tea Tree Soaks which have been featured on this blog. These products help kill the fungus before it can grow on your feet.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Podiatrist and Fungal Nails
Fungal nails are caused by an infection that occurs underneath the surface of your nails. Sometimes the infection can penetrate inside your nails. In both cases that can be quite painful and impede your ability to walk or run. The fungus can cause the nail to become discolored, misshapen, and malodorous. Sometimes we can prescribe oral or topical medication and remove the diseased nail portions through a process known as debridement. In other cases we can surgically remove the infected nail and eliminate the fungus completely. This can allow a new, healthy nail to grow.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Tea Tree Soaking Crystals for Clear Toenails
Another product we have in our office to help keep your toenails clear of fungus is Tea Tree Ultimates Soaking Crystals, by PediFix. These all natural soaks are a blend of tea tree and peppermint essential oils, Epsom salt and sea salt. Tea tree oil is a natural defense against fungi that cause a range of problems, including toenail fungus and athlete's foot. This soak is also great at relieving aches and pains, itching skin, foot odor, and it helps to soften corns and calluses. Your feet are left refreshed, clean and great smelling. You can even use these crystals as a full body soak to relive sore muscles and joint stiffness, while still eliminating fungi and bacteria. And the manufacturer is so sure that you'll love their product, they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
This product is also very simple to use. Simply fill a basin or tub with warm water, add contents of the packet, and stir with your hand. This will activate the essential oils. Then simply immerse your feet or your self into the basin or tub and enjoy a relaxing soak, muscle relief, and fungi-free feet! Here's a tip for use: adjust the temperature of the water to whatever is most soothing for you. If you want to take a long, full body soak, you can turn up the heat a little bit to have a long lasting, warm, enjoyable experience.
We especially recommend this product to patients who are susceptible to or are often exposed to sources of fungus. This product works equally well as a preventative measure, as well as a curative one. If you find yourself exposed to fungal agents (i.e. spending a lot of time around pools, public showers and other warm, damp areas) then this is a product you may want to consider using. Swing by our office for more information or to purchase these Soaking Crystals with Tea Tree Oil.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Funga Soap for Clear Toenails
This product is great for a range of patients. It is an excellent choice for patients who are susceptible to or have a history or fungal infections. It is also a good choice if you spend a lot of time around public pools or showers, where bacteria and viruses which cause fungus often thrive. Great for athletes, avid fitness participants and lifeguards. Also consider this product, especially as an all-over body wash, if you participate in a sport with a lot of person-to-person contact, like wrestling or martial arts. It will help prevent other forms of skin fungus from forming.
Gordochom for Clear Toenails
DIRECTIONS: Cleanse and dry affected areas. Apply a thin application twice a day (morning and night) to the affected area, or as recommended by your physician. For athlete's foot, pay special attention to the spaces between the toes; wear well-fitting ventilated shoes, and change shoes and socks at least once daily. For athlete's foot and ringworm, use daily for 4 weeks. If condition persists longer, consult a physician.
We often pair this treatment with a prescription for three Lamisil tablets, which are crushed up and added to the Gordochom. We find this combination of medications to be quite effective for treating fungi that affect the feet and toenails.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)









