Fungal toenails, also referred to as ringworm of the nails or tinea pedis, often begin quietly, with a nail that looks a little dull or slightly yellow. Over time, the change becomes more obvious as the nail thickens, turns brittle, and sometimes gives off an unpleasant odor. The surface may appear rough or crumbly, and in advanced cases the nail can separate from the skin beneath it. These infections are stubborn because fungi thrive in warm, damp spaces such as inside shoes or socks worn for long hours. Age, reduced circulation, and frequent exposure to public showers or locker rooms can all increase risk. While many try home remedies, the condition rarely resolves without professional care. Ignoring it can lead to discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes. If you notice changes in your toenails that will not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for 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 one of our podiatrists of Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Custom orthotics are designed to meet the specific needs of your feet, offering support that goes beyond what store bought inserts can provide. Rigid orthotics are made from firm materials and are often recommended to control motion in the joints, making them useful for issues such as flat feet, joint pain, and arthritis. Soft orthotics are created from cushioning materials that absorb shock and reduce pressure, which can be especially helpful for people with diabetes, arthritis, or sensitive feet. Semi-rigid orthotics combine both firmness and cushioning, providing balance for athletes or active individuals who need support as well as flexibility for sports injuries or biomechanical problems. Choosing the right type of orthotic depends on your condition, activity level, and foot structure. It is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can evaluate your needs and design a custom orthotic that promotes comfort, improves function, and supports your long term foot health.

The benefits of custom orthotics are far-reaching and can make a significant impact on your daily life. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance, a healthcare worker on your feet every day, someone who experiences chronic foot pain, or someone who wants to improve their overall comfort and well-being, custom orthotics can be a game changer. 

Custom orthotics provide support, stability, and relief for a variety of foot conditions ranging from flat feet to heel pain. They can even help prevent injuries and address more severe foot concerns, such as plantar fasciitis and diabetic foot issues. 

Contact one of our podiatrists at Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists to create tailored orthotics for you and enjoy a higher quality of life, reduced pain, and increased mobility. With the right orthotics, you can continue doing the things you love, whether it’s running, dancing, or simply walking comfortably without discomfort. 

If you are suffering from foot discomfort or have concerns about your foot health, do not hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists to explore the benefits of orthotics for you. Your feet are the foundation of your body and investing in their well-being can lead to a happier, healthier, and more active lifestyle. Your feet will thank you!

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pronation is the natural motion your foot makes as it rolls inward when walking or running, helping to absorb shock and distribute weight evenly. In neutral pronation, the heel strikes the ground first, the arch lowers slightly to cushion impact, and weight is smoothly transferred forward to push off the toes. This balanced motion keeps the feet and ankles aligned, supporting efficient movement. When overpronation occurs, the foot rolls too far inward, often placing excess strain on the arch, heel, and big toe. This can lead to plantar fasciitis or arch pain. Underpronation, also called supination, means the foot rolls outward with each step. This can increase stress on the smaller toes and outer edge of the foot. Both abnormal patterns may contribute to ankle instability, repetitive injuries, or uneven wear on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, identify pronation issues, and recommend proper treatment. If you are experiencing foot pain that may be linked to your gait, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.