Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that causes thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. It often begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail and gradually spreads deeper, leading to nail distortion, crumbling edges, and possible separation from the nail bed. The infected nail may feel rough, emit a foul odor, and cause discomfort or pain when wearing shoes. Causes include exposure to warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools, as well as wearing tight shoes or having a history of athlete's foot. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus through a physical exam and by analyzing nail clippings. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medications, or in severe cases, removal of the affected nail. Early treatment increases success rates and prevents further spread. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to properly identify and treat toenail fungus.

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 Kentston Cripe, DPM of Roseville Foot & Ankle. 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 Roseville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy joints, often affecting the small joints of the feet. This condition leads to inflammation that can cause swelling, warmth, redness, and stiffness, making walking and daily activities difficult. Risk factors include genetics, age, smoking, and being female. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can damage joints, change foot shape, and create long-lasting pain. A podiatrist can help by providing specialized care to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and recommend supportive footwear or orthotics. Do not let rheumatoid arthritis take control of your feet. If you have symptoms of this uncomfortable condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM of Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Ankle instability occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle become stretched or torn, leaving the joint vulnerable to repeated sprains. This condition is commonly seen after multiple ankle injuries, and patients often describe their ankle as rolling inward or feeling as if it may give way. True ankle instability results from weakened ligaments. However, functional instability refers to pain or altered mechanics that create the sensation of looseness, even if the ligaments remain stable. Both forms can cause discomfort on the outside or inside of the ankle due to strain on tendons or irritation from altered joint motion. Risk factors include prior ankle sprains, and participation in sports that demand quick changes in direction. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of instability, identify whether the problem is structural or functional, and recommend treatment. If you experience the feeling that your ankle is giving way, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kentston Cripe, DPM from Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roseville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Drop foot, often called foot drop, is a condition where the foot cannot properly lift at the ankle, making it difficult to clear the ground while walking. This problem arises when the muscles at the front of the leg that control ankle motion become weak or lose function, or when the nerve supplying those muscles is damaged. People with drop foot may develop a high-stepping gait to avoid tripping, and without proper care, the ankle can stiffen into a downward pointing position. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity and underlying cause, and provide treatment to help restore mobility and function. Options include the use of an ankle-foot brace to keep the foot in a neutral position or surgery, such as tendon transfer or nerve repair, if the weakness is permanent. These treatments are designed to improve stability, walking ability, and reduce the risk of falls. If you have trouble lifting your feet when walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM from Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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