Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects the nails of the feet. It occurs when fungi invade the nail bed, leading to changes in the appearance and structure of the nail. This condition often develops slowly and may begin as a small spot under the nail. It can spread and affect the entire nail, if left untreated. Understanding the definition of toenail fungus is important for recognizing early symptoms and preventing further progression.

Symptoms of toenail fungus can vary but often include nail thickening, discoloration, and crumbling edges. The nail may appear yellow, brown, or white and can become brittle and difficult to trim. In some cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed or develop an irregular shape. These changes may also be accompanied by mild discomfort or an unpleasant odor. Recognizing these symptoms early can help guide timely care and reduce the risk of complications.

The causes of toenail fungus are often linked to warm, moist environments that allow fungi to thrive. Conditions like athlete's foot can spread to the toenails and contribute to infection. Walking barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms or pools can increase exposure to fungal organisms. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, and excessive sweating. Wearing tight or non breathable shoes also can contribute. These factors can create an environment that supports fungal growth and makes the nails more vulnerable.

Preventing toenail fungus involves maintaining proper foot hygiene, keeping nails clean and dry, and wearing well fitted, breathable footwear. Early attention to nail changes can prevent the condition from worsening and spreading. Addressing risk factors can also support healthier nails and overall foot health. If you notice symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

For more information about treatment, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast 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 contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can make standing, walking, and other daily activities difficult. The ankle contains bones, joints, and soft tissues that work together to support body weight and movement. Pain can occur after an injury or a change in activity. Symptoms can include swelling, stiffness, and tenderness. Some patients also experience numbness or tingling. Pain can sometimes come from another area of the body, which is called referred pain. Changes in foot structure, excess body weight, or shoes that lack proper support can also place extra stress on the ankle.

Ankle sprains are one possible cause of pain. A sprain happens when the ankle rolls, twists, or turns forcefully and damages supporting ligaments. Most sprains occur when the foot twists inward, causing pain around the outside of the ankle. Fractures can also cause ankle pain, especially after a hard impact or fall. Achilles tendon problems can develop after a sudden increase in training or a new activity. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and helps raise the heel when walking or running. Arthritis can also affect the ankle joint and contribute to pain or stiffness.

A podiatrist can evaluate ankle pain by examining the painful area and checking how the foot and ankle move. The assessment can consider walking patterns, joint movement, and foot structure. A podiatrist can determine whether shoes or abnormal foot mechanics are placing added stress on the ankle. Treatment can include supportive devices, shoe recommendations, and targeted movement guidance. Custom orthotics can also help control abnormal foot movement when appropriate. Severe tenderness over a bone or an inability to put weight on the ankle can indicate a more serious injury. If you have symptoms of ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gait is the pattern your body follows when you walk, jog, or run. A steady gait helps the feet absorb impact and move body weight forward with control. It also depends on the lower-body joints and upper body working together. When one part does not move well, another area can take on extra stress. This change can lead to foot pain, joint strain, or loss of balance. A healthy gait therefore supports comfortable movement, activity, and independence. It also lowers the chance of falls and injuries.

Changes in gait can reveal an injury or health problem. Warning signs include limping, shuffling, or taking uneven steps. A person might also drag the toes, place too much weight on one side, or have trouble pushing off the ground. Foot pain, weak muscles, and stiff joints can alter the way someone moves. Differences in leg length or foot shape can also affect balance and step length. Because these problems place pressure on other body parts, pain can spread to the ankles, knees, or hips. An altered gait can also make playing sports and completing daily tasks harder.

A podiatrist can study how the feet and lower legs move while a patient walks or runs. The examination includes checking foot position, joint movement, and areas of tenderness. The podiatrist may also measure stride length, watch how each foot meets the ground, and examine the patient’s shoes for uneven wear. Imaging can help identify a bone or joint problem noticed during the exam. Treatment is based on the cause of the gait change. A podiatrist can provide custom shoe inserts to improve foot position or recommend shoes with proper support. Bracing can improve stability in some patients. Early diagnosis can reduce harmful pressure and protect joints. If you have pain while walking or during a sports activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if a gait analysis is right for you.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. 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 offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions and buninettes develop when the bones in the toe area gradually shift out of alignment. A bunion, also called hallux valgus, forms when the big toe moves toward the smaller toes as the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged and prominent. A buninette, also known as a tailor’s bunion, develops on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. Both conditions can change foot structure and may become painful without proper care.

Symptoms of bunions and buninettes often include a visible bump, swelling, redness, and tenderness around the affected joint. People may experience discomfort while walking or wearing shoes, especially narrow footwear that places pressure on the affected area. Other symptoms can include stiffness, difficulty moving the toe, and irritation caused by friction against shoes. In advanced cases, these deformities may contribute to changes in walking patterns and increased stress on other areas of the foot.

Several risk factors can contribute to the development of bunions and buninettes. Genetics often play a role because inherited foot structure, such as flat feet or abnormal joint alignment, can increase the likelihood of developing these conditions. Wearing tight, narrow, or poorly fitting shoes may place additional pressure on the toes and worsen symptoms. Other risk factors include arthritis, muscle imbalance, and activities that place repeated stress on the feet.

The causes of bunions and buninettes are often related to gradual changes in foot mechanics and alignment. Abnormal movement while walking can place uneven pressure on the toe joints, leading to progressive changes over time. Early evaluation and proper treatment can help reduce discomfort and support better foot function. Wearing supportive footwear, activity adjustments, and custom orthotics may help manage symptoms and improve comfort. If you have developed a bunion or bunionette, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.