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When Toenails Become Infected by Fungus

Tuesday, 30 September 2025

Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails. It often begins as a small white or yellow spot under the nail and gradually spreads, causing the nail to thicken, change color, and become brittle. Over time, the nail may crumble, separate from the nail bed, or cause discomfort when walking or wearing shoes. Several factors raise the risk of developing this condition. Warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms and around public pools, encourage fungal growth. Wearing tight shoes, having diabetes, reduced circulation, or a weakened immune system also makes infection more likely. Because toenail fungus rarely clears on its own, professional treatment is important. Options may include oral or topical antifungal medications or removal of severely damaged nails. If you notice changes in your toenails that suggest infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Sunday, 28 September 2025

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

A Focused Mind May Help to Prevent Running Injuries

Tuesday, 23 September 2025

There are many people that enjoy running as a hobby, stress reliever, or possibly to accomplish a personal goal. Rehabilitation or extensive healing times may be avoided when proper techniques that can prevent running injuries are practiced. These can include developing a focused attitude, and increasing physical strength, which may help to increase stamina. Additionally, many people find it beneficial to follow a professional training program. The legs may feel better when a foam roller is used, which may help to protect the joints. If you would like more information about how running injuries can affect the feet and how to possibly prevent them, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Understanding Sources of Toe Pain

Tuesday, 16 September 2025

Toe pain can result from several conditions, with gout, hammertoe, and bunions being among the most common. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid, leading to sudden, intense joint pain, redness, and swelling, often in the big toe. Hammertoes develop when a toe bends abnormally at the middle joint due to muscle imbalance, causing discomfort, corns, or calluses. Bunions form when the big toe shifts inward, creating a painful bump on the side of the foot. These conditions may cause sharp, throbbing, or aching pain, along with visible changes in toe alignment or swelling. They can make walking, wearing shoes, or standing for long periods of time difficult. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact cause of toe pain through a physical examination and imaging tests. Treatment options include medication, orthotics, footwear changes, or, in some cases, surgery. If you have ongoing toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find the most effective solution for lasting relief.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot Complications Linked to Diabetes

Tuesday, 09 September 2025

Diabetes affects the body in ways that can make the feet especially vulnerable. Poor circulation slows the ability to heal, which means even a small sore can linger longer than expected. Nerve damage, known as neuropathy, may reduce sensation and make it difficult to notice cuts, blisters, or pressure points. This lack of awareness increases the risk of infections and ulcers developing without early warning signs. Structural changes in the feet may also occur, such as hammertoes or Charcot foot, where weakened bones in the foot fracture and collapse, leading to deformity and instability, adding pressure to certain areas and leading to further breakdown of the skin. Infections can progress quickly if left untreated, and, in severe cases may require hospitalization or even surgery. Regular foot checks, protective footwear, and professional care are essential. If you are living with diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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.