Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by various types of fungi, including dermatophytes, molds, and yeasts. Dermatophytes are the most frequent culprits, often affecting the toenails more than the fingernails. Infected toenails may turn yellow, green, or brown and appear thickened, brittle, or crumbly. In some cases, the nail may separate from the skin underneath, emit an unpleasant odor, or cause pain when walking or wearing shoes. Different subtypes of infection exist depending on the area of the nail affected, such as the tip, base, or surface. Risk factors include walking barefoot in public areas, wearing tight shoes, nail trauma, and medical conditions that lower immunity. A chiropodist can examine the affected toenail, determine if it is fungal, and suggest appropriate topical treatment. If you have developed a fungal toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for appropriate treatment. 

Toenail fungus can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have diabetes or a compromised immune system, it may also be dangerous. To learn more about treatment options, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Does Toenail Fungus Look Like? 

A fungal infection of the toenail may cause the affected nail to become thickened, brittle, crumbly, and yellowish or brown in color. Sometimes the toenail may separate from the nail bed, become deformed, emit a foul odor, or cause pain or discomfort. 

What Causes Toenail Fungus? 

Toenail fungus is caused by a fungus that infects the nail bed. The fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments and is also contagious. Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection of the skin, may spread to the nails and cause toenail fungus. 

What Treatments Are Available? 

Potential treatments for toenail fungus may include oral antifungal medications, topical antifungal medications, such as medicated nail polishes that are applied directly to the affected nail, and laser therapy. Sometimes, a combination of treatments is prescribed. 

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, usually due to a sudden twist or fall. Causes include sports injuries, uneven surfaces, or improper footwear. Ankle sprains are graded by severity, with Grade 1 being mild stretching, Grade 2 involving partial tears, and Grade 3 representing complete tears and instability. Risk factors include weak ankles, poor balance, and previous sprains. A chiropodist can assess the injury, recommend appropriate care such as bracing or exercises, and help prevent future sprains through strengthening and balance training. If you experience ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can guide you toward appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

When one or more ligaments in the ankle overstretch or tear due to injury, an ankle sprain occurs. If you would like to learn more about ankle sprains, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Tenderness

• Difficulty walking

• Ankle instability

• A reduced range of motion in the ankle 

Treatments for an ankle sprain may consist of: 

• Resting the injured ankle

• Applying ice

• Elevating the ankle

• Compressing the ankle

• Over-the-counter pain medications

• Ankle braces or other devices to take weight off of the ankle

• Ankle exercises 

• Surgery (in rare cases) 

It’s important for the sprained ankle to heal correctly and fully in order to avoid repeated injury. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Proper foot care is vital for individuals with diabetes to prevent serious complications. Keeping the skin soft with a gentle moisturizer helps avoid cracks that can lead to infections. Daily foot inspections are important for spotting blisters, cuts, or redness early. Washing feet with mild soap and drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes, helps maintain cleanliness and reduces moisture buildup. A chiropodist plays a key role by providing routine foot exams, managing calluses or nail care, and offering guidance on footwear and skin health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.