Answer 1.
There may be other
reasons for the discoloration, but the two primary
reasons are trauma or fungus infection. The most effective
way to return your toenail to its natural state and
color is to use a topical or oral medication that's
prescribed by a podiatrist.
Answer 2. You may
have plantar faciitis, which is the inflammation of
the plantar fascia, a thin layer of tough tissue that
supports the arch of the foot. Plantar faciitis is
also referred to as heel spurs. Heel spurs can be
caused by lack of arch support, improper athletic
training and sudden overuse of your feet. People with
low arches, flat feet or high arches are sometimes
prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Wearing shoes
with more arch support and stretching can help relieve
heel spur pain. For more serious cases, your podiatrist
may administer an injection or prescribe oral anti-inflammatories,
customized orthotics, night splints or physical therapy.
Answer 3. Diabetes
can decrease the blood circulation to your feet, causing
numbness and a tingling sensation. However, these
symptoms can also be caused by diabetic neuropathy,
a peripheral nerve disorder. Neuropathy can sometimes
create a false sense of burning or painful sensations.
Although there are medications to help with the pain,
the best way to control neuropathy is keep blood sugar
levels down through proper diet and medication. If
you are diagnosed with neuropathy, it is vital to
see your podiatrist on a regular basis.
Answer 4. All
medications have risks and benefits. However, when prescribed
and taken correctly, oral anti-fungal medications are
safe to use and can be highly effective. It's best to
consult your podiatrist to determine the best medication
for you.
Answer 5. It depends.
In order to assess the need for diabetic shoes, we take
several factors into consideration, including whether
you have poor circulation; whether you experience numbness
along with a condition such as a bunion or hammertoe;
whether you have a pre-ulcerative callus; and whether
you have a history of a previous ulceration or non-traumatic
amputation. Diabetic shoes and inserts are a proven
method of reducing the need for a first or further amputation.
And with today's new diabetic shoes, patients can enjoy
both style and comfort. View samples of shoes for diabetic
patients. Answer 6.
Orthotics is custom-made appliances (such
as inserts) for your feet. Orthotics are made to control
and accommodate your feet; aligning them into an ideal
position that improves functionality. It's important
to note that, like eye glasses, orthotics do not correct
your feet — they help you function more comfortably
in your daily activities. Orthotics are made according
to shoe type (e.g. tennis shoes or high heels), and
can also be specially made for specific activities
such as running, golf and tennis. Orthotics can be
especially beneficial for people who work on their
feet such as construction workers, salespeople and
mail carriers. Simple to use, orthotics are an effective
treatment for many foot conditions and can last up
to 2-3 years.
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