Preparing for Healthy Feet
Winter months are often a time when we overlook our feet, as they are tucked away in warm socks and shoes, far from the eye. Yet, this season presents the perfect opportunity to address foot care, particularly when it comes to nail health + fungal issues. In this edition of "Healthy Strides," Dr. Jamie Carter shares valuable insights and treatment options to ensure your feet are healthy and ready for the coming warmer months. Watch our full segment here: Healthy Strides: Winter Nail Health.
Why Focus on Nail Health in Winter?
Dr. Carter highlights that even though our toes aren't on display during winter, this hidden phase is a perfect time to treat them. Since a full nail takes about nine months to grow out, starting treatment in the winter ensures that you'll be sandal-ready by the time spring and summer arrive.
Fungus in the Winter: Understanding Your Risk
Fungal infections thrive during the winter months due to the conditions created by closed shoes, socks, and prolonged exposure to warm, moist environments. According to Dr. Carter, even people who consistently care for their feet can succumb to fungus, as it exists everywhere. Because of that, knowing your risks and the warning signs are key to protecting your nails all year round.
Identifying and Diagnosing Nail Fungus
Some common signs include thickness, yellowness, and an unusual odor from your toenails. These are signs you can spot at home, distinguishing these from other issues like vitamin deficiencies, trauma, or autoimmune conditions is where we step in. At Lexington Podiatry we ensure accurate diagnosis through clipping a piece of your nail and sending it for culture testing to determine the exact cause. Once we know the root of your nail condition, we start your custom treatment plan.
Innovative Treatment Options at Lexington Podiatry
At Lexington Podiatry, we're happy to offer comprehensive treatment for fungal infections like:
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ToeFX: An in-house light therapy boasting a 75 to 80% clearance rate for fungal toenails.
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Laser Therapy: Used to accelerate nail growth, aiding the body in swiftly eliminating the fungus.
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Oral and Topical Medications: Prescriptions are based on the patient's specific needs.
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Modern Podiatrist Antifungal Product Line: Modern Podiatrist has a special range of products targeted to deliver effective results at home.
Dealing with Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown nails can exacerbate fungal problems, but Lexington Podiatry provides several solutions:
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OnyFix: A new non-invasive technique using a band of putty as a bracing system, eliminating the need for needles and numbing.
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Safe, professional trimming performed within a secure medical environment and specifically targeting your nail's problem areas.
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Surgical Procedures: Offering permanent removal options that ensure nails do not regrow.
Now Is The Time
Addressing foot health in the winter ensures lasting benefits that extend into the sandal months. Whether dealing with fungal issues or managing ingrown nails, Lexington Podiatry offers tailored solutions to keep your feet in optimal health all year round.
For more information, give us a call at 859.264.1141 or send us a text to 859.217.4534!
Let's give our feet the attention they deserve to step smoothly and stylishly into warmer days!