Nail Fungus

A fungal infection of the toenail occurs when fungus infects one or more of the nails.

A nail fungal infection may first appear as yellowish spot under the tip of the toenail. As the fungus penetrates deeper into the nail, it may cause the nail to thicken, discolor, and develop crumbling edges - an unsightly and often painful problem.

People who have certain types of immune diseases, diabetes, minor skin or nail injuries, excessive foot perspiration and people who wear tight fitting, non-breathing footwear are at greater risk of developing a nail fungus infection.

What are the causes?

Fungal infections of the toenails are usually caused by a specific group of fungi called dermatophytes.

These organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. They can invade your toes through tiny invisible fissures on the skin or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed.

Nail infections are often a consequence of an untreated, larger fungal infection of the feet, such as athlete's foot. Fungal nail infections are often difficult to treat and may be a reoccurring problem.

Fungal infections can be spread from direct contact with any surface that serves as a reservoir for fungus such as shoes, infected towels, showers and pool surfaces etc.

What are the symptoms?

Signs of a toenail fungus include discolored, dull, brittle, thick, and distorted nails. Spongy debris may accumulate under the nail. In cases of severe infection, crumbling, and ultimately detachment, of the nail can occur.

What are the treatment and prevention measures?

Toenail fungus can be prevented by wearing flexible, breathable shoes and clean, dry socks every day. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas and always try to keep feet clean and dry.

Dr. Roth suggests the use of the Foot Fixer Kit to help resolve a fungal infection of the nails. If the infection is severe, Dr. Roth suggests using the Nail & Foot Gel even if no nail fungus is present. In mild infections use of the Foot Balm should eliminate the condition.

Overpronation of the Foot

Overpronation

Overpronation, also known as flat feet, is a common condition in which the foot's natural arch collapses upon weight bearing; potentially causing severe discomfort and leading to other significant foot problems.

What are the causes?

Overpronation, caused by excessive stretching of the fibrous tissue that is present at the bottom of the foot, is the most common cause of flat feet.

Obesity, pregnancy, or repetitive, prolonged impact with a hard surface can weaken the arch, leading to overpronation.

What are the symptoms?

Some common symptoms of a flat foot include:

• Uneven wear of the shoe.
• Lower leg pain
• Pain on the inside of your ankle
• Swelling along the inside of your ankle
• Foot pain

What are the treatment and prevention measures?

Dr. Roth recommends the use of FABS or MAGFABS to help support the arch and alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with flat feet.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory condition caused by excessive strain to the plantar fascia of the foot.

The plantar fascia is the thick, connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot. It originates at the heel and extends to the base of the toes.

The plantar fascia tightens and stretches each time the foot is used, and is highly prone to overuse, especially if the arch is not supported by proper footwear.

What are the causes?

Plantar Fasciitis is caused by excessive stretching of the fibrous tissue that is present at the bottom of the foot. This excessive stretching can lead to heel and arch pain. Flat feet, also known as overpronation, is a leading cause of Plantar Fasciitis.

Plantar Fasciitis can be aggravated or caused by an unusually high arch, sudden changes in physical activity, improper footwear, obesity, and the weight gain associated with pregnancy.

What are the symptoms?

Pain is typically experienced on the inside of the heel and along the arch. Heel pain is especially common after long periods of physical activity or after getting up from a seated position.

What are the treatment and prevention measures?

Care measures include applying ice, stretching, anti-inflammatory medications, and gentle massage.

Flat feet, also known as overpronation, is the leading cause of plantar fasciitis. Dr. Roth recommends FABS or MAGFABS to help alleviate Plantar Fasciitis caused by pronation.