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Most people cringe at the thought of having a fungal infection but in reality, we all have many types of fungi that live on our skin all the time. Most of the time these fungi don’t cause any problems, but sometimes a fungus will change and cause an infection.
The most common fungal problems associated with the feet are athlete’s foot and fungal nails. Fungus thrives in the dark, warm and moist places. On the feet, it can grow on and between toes the toe nails and foot soles.
The most common cause of fungus on your foot includes:
- Not keeping the feet clean and dry
- Walking barefoot by pool areas or in locker room
- Wearing shoes that do not provide ventilation
- A weakened immunity system
Sign of athlete’s foot are dry skin, itching, scaling, aching inflammation and blisters. It may start between the toes or on the arch and can spread throughout the entire foot. The fungus is usually picked up from a moist area.
Fungal nails can be contracted from a case of athlete’s foot, by using artificial nails or by an injury to the nail. If you suspect that you have a fungal problem, a podiatrist can help. After evaluating your feet through a comprehensive examination, a podiatrist will diagnose and treat your fungal problem. But success will depend on the combination of self care and medications. Athlete’s foot if not severe, can be treated thru over the counter and prescription powders, lotions ointments and sprays. If your case is severe, your podiatrist will prescribe you a stronger medication. Fungal nails can be treated by prescribed topical, and oral antifungal medications. In case of a secondary infection, an antibiotic may be prescribed as well. Your podiatrist may also find necessary to trim, file, grind or remove the infected portion of the nail.
To prevent fungal problems, alternate shoes so they have time to dry out, change socks daily, and dry your feet thoroughly after they are wet. Use a foot powder to absorb perspiration, and wear sandals or thongs near pools or in lockers rooms. Avoid areas that are moist because dry, clean feet help stop a fungus from taking root, growing or spreading.
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“Dr Drury,
I thought I’d drop you a note and thank you again for hanging in there with me to get over my foot issues – primarily the plantar fasciitis. I’ve got great news to report as my husband and I did an extremely difficult hike at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon a few weeks ago and my foot was fine (other muscle groups were not quite ready for the level of difficulty). The hike was 9.4 miles with major elevation changes. Over this weekend, we did a 27 mile bike ride in Valle Caldera Preserve and again the foot held up fine. It is so wonderful to be back doing the outdoor activities I enjoy.
Truthfully, I’m also be glad to be wearing my cute shoes again a few days a week.
The APC treatment was amazing, I can’t believe the success I’ve had since having the treatment last November. As you know, I went through the cortisone shots with no success and we were starting to consider surgery. The APC treatment eliminated that need.
Thank you again to you and your staff for the part you played in my recovery. I recommend you and your staff to anyone I meet having foot issues.”
Ann Swancer