Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nails of the feet and causes changes in appearance and texture. It develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or separation from the nail bed. Common symptoms include thickened nails, discoloration ranging from yellow to brown, brittleness, crumbling edges, and an unpleasant odor. The nail may become distorted and difficult to trim, leading to discomfort while walking or wearing shoes. Causes of toenail fungus include moist environments, sweaty feet, shared public spaces, and weakened immunity. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the infection and recommend effective treatment options, including topical care, oral medication, or in-office procedures. They can also provide guidance on proper foot hygiene to prevent recurrence. If you notice changes in your toenails or have nail discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Mt Rose Foot & Ankle 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 office located in Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Dry, cracked heels develop when the skin loses moisture and becomes less flexible, making it easier for small splits to form. These cracks can feel rough, tender, or irritated, especially when standing for long periods of time or wearing open backed shoes. Some people notice flakes of skin or deep fissures that catch on fabric and make walking uncomfortable. The problem can worsen in dry climates, during colder months, or when the skin is exposed to repeated friction. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, remove thickened skin safely, and recommend products that restore moisture without irritating sensitive areas. Guidance on footwear and daily habits can also help reduce pressure on the heels and prevent recurrence. If dryness or cracking continues or begins to cause discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Certain factors increase the chance of gout, which causes severe pain in the feet. High uric acid levels place stress on the joints, especially around the big toe where gout attacks often begin. The problem occurs when the kidneys do not clear uric acid waste efficiently. Eating large amounts of foods high in purines, drinking alcohol, or consuming beverages with high fructose corn syrup can raise uric acid even more. Extra body weight increases pressure on the feet and can contribute to higher uric acid levels over time. Some health conditions, such as kidney problems or metabolic issues, also raise the likelihood of a painful  gout flare-up in the toes or ankles. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, or flip-flops to replace proper footwear, can place added pressure on an already irritated big-toe joint. A podiatrist can examine swollen joints, review flare patterns, and recommend supportive devices that help reduce strain on painful areas. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and help managing this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Turf toe occurs when the big toe bends too far upward, stretching or tearing the soft tissues that support the joint. This injury is common in activities that involve sudden stops, quick direction changes, or forceful push offs, especially on firm surfaces. The toe may become painful, swollen, or stiff, and many people notice discomfort when trying to lift off during walking or running. In some cases, the joint feels unstable or weak, making it difficult to move with confidence. Early care helps prevent the injury from worsening and supports a smoother recovery. Resting the toe, avoiding movements that cause pain, and choosing shoes with a stiff sole can reduce stress on the joint. If you experience swelling, tenderness, or difficulty bending the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper guidance.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.