Starting treatment now for fungal nails means your feet will be summer ready!

Many people don't realize they have a fungal nail problem and, therefore, don't seek treatment. Yet, fungal toenail infections are a common foot health problem and can persist for years without ever causing pain. The disease, characterized by a change in a toenail's color, is often considered nothing more than a mere blemish. Left untreated, however, it can present serious problems.

Also referred to as onychomycosis, fungal nails are infections underneath the surface of the nail, which may also penetrate the nail. Fungal nail infections are often accompanied by a secondary bacterial and/or yeast infection in or about the nail plate, which ultimately can lead to difficulty and pain when walking or running. Symptoms may include discoloration, brittleness, loosening, thickening, or crumbling of the nail.

A group of fungi, called dermophytes, easily attack the nail and thrive on keratin, the nail's protein substance. In some cases, when these tiny organisms take hold, the nail may become thicker, yellowish-brown, or darker in color, and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails.

Nail bed injury may make the nail more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection. Those who suffer chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. Other contributory factors may be a history of Athlete's Foot or excessive perspiration.

You can prevent fungal nail infections by taking these simple precautions:

• Exercise proper hygiene and regularly inspect your feet and toes.
• Keep your feet clean and dry.
• Wear shower shoes in public facilities whenever possible.
• Clip nails straight across so that the nail does not extend beyond the tip of the toe.
• Use a quality foot powder (talcum, not cornstarch) in conjunction with shoes that fit well and are made of materials that breathe.
• Avoid wearing excessively tight hosiery, which promotes moisture. Socks made of synthetic fiber tend to "wick" away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks, especially for those with more active lifestyles.
• Disinfect home pedicure tools and don't apply polish to nails suspected of infection.

Depending on the type of infection you have, over-the-counter liquid antifungal agents may not prevent a fungal infection from recurring. A topical or oral medication may need to be prescribed, and the diseased nail matter and debris removed, a process called debridement. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications.

In severe cases, surgical treatment may be required to remove the infected nail. Permanent removal of a chronically painful nail, which has not responded to any other treatment, permits the fungal infection to be cured and prevents the return of a deformed nail.

Still Think High Heels are Worth It?

It’s not what fashion-conscious women want to hear—another warning about high heels. But wearing pump-style shoes often causes significant pain by irritating a common bony deformity on the back of the heel, called ‘pump bump.’ If left untreated, it can lead to bursitis or Achilles tendonitis.

What is Pump Bump?
Pump bump is common in young women who wear high heels almost every day. The rigid back of a pump-style shoe can create pressure that aggravates the heel bone when walking.

The bony enlargement can cause Achilles tendonitis or bursitis due to constant irritation from pump-style shoes. Those with high arches or tight Achilles tendons are especially vulnerable to developing pump bump if they work in high heels.
The medical term for the disorder is Haglund’s deformity. In addition to the noticeable bump, symptoms include:

• pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel,
• swelling in the back of the heel, and
• redness in the area.

Treating Pump Bump
In the large majority of cases, pump bump is treated non-surgically by reducing inflammation, but this does not get rid of the bony enlargement. Pain relief is the primary treatment goal, so anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed. Icing the back of the heel reduces swelling, and stretching exercises can relieve tension in the Achilles. Long-term, however, it’s best to avoid wearing high heels, if possible.

If your job requires wearing high-heeled shoes and you’re experiencing symptoms of pump bump, heel lifts placed inside the shoes may offer some relief. Wearing backless shoes or those with soft backs may also help decrease pressure on the area.


http://www.foothealthfacts.org/Content.aspx?id=1447

Fall Into Boots That Feel Good!

Leather or suede? Ankle or knee? Grey or black? Boho chic or cowboy cool? With so many stylish boots this season how can you possibly choose the perfect pair?

• Have feet measured, size can change throughout life! Keep in mind - your boot size may not fit the same in all styles and brands.
• Try boots on in the afternoon - feet tend to swell during the day.
• Buy for the larger foot - most feet are not the exact same size.
• Carry an insole when boot shopping in case a pair lack the proper arch support.
• Boots should feel comfortable when tried on in the store, there shouldn’t be a “break-in” period.
• A boot constructed of natural materials, like leather, will keep feet dry and comfortable during the winter months.
• Choose a boot with plenty of toe room, a firm heel counter and traction to ensure stability.

http://www.apma.org/boot-tips