Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a flexible or rigid contraction usually affecting the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Muscle imbalance leads to a bending or “buckling” of the toe joints. These buckled or contracted positions create any number of problems within and on top of the toe deformity. It is important to treat hammertoes early. As they advance and lose flexibility, the only option for correction may be surgery. Hammertoes can cause complications such as corns or calluses at the point where they come into contact with the shoes. As with many foot problems, one of the causes of hammertoes can be improperly fitted shoes.

Podiatrists have a variety of ways to treat hammertoes, including surgery, better shoes designed with extra room for toes, corn pads, straps, and cushions.

If you have questions about hammertoes, we have much more information on our website www.nastfootandankle.com. For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com

Melanoma: The Warning Signs and the Importance of Early Detection

Melanoma is a malignant tumor that originates from the uncontrolled overgrowth of specialized skin cells known as melanocytes, the cells responsible for pigmentation.  These growths can originate from pre-existing moles or nevi, or they can even arise de novo.  Melanoma can become aggressive and invasive quickly, so early detection warrants the best prognosis with treatment.  Melanoma can present anywhere on the body, but it can be commonly found in the legs of women and on the soles of the African-American population.

There are 5 different types of melanoma including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, lentigo maligna melanoma, acral lentiginous melanoma, and amelanotic melanoma.  The most common type is superficial spreading melanoma which often starts as a small discolored lesion with irregular borders which can either be flat or raised.  This type does spread superficially before invading deeper tissues, but that does not provide an excuse to delay seeking medical attention.

With any discoloration of the skin, it is advised to keep close observation of the lesion and be aware to the ABCDE’s.  One should make note if there is any asymmetry, if borders become irregular, if there is color changes or varying pigmentation in the nevus, the diameter since larger nevi are more likely to become malignant, and finally any elevation of the nevus.  Another warning sign in the case of subungual (acral lentiginous) melanoma is Hutchinson’s sign, which is pigment changes in the skin at the base of nails. Noticing any significant changes such as these, it will warrant a biopsy be performed to diagnose and stage it’s progression.  Sometimes in the more serious cases when diagnosed promptly, only superficial excision is necessary.  However, with delay in detection and extensive invasiveness of the tumor, more extensive surgery may be necessary.

If you have questions about melanoma and other skin abnormalities related to the foot and leg, we have much more information on our websitewww.nastfootandankle.com. For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com

Causes of Foot Pain: Hammertoe

Hammertoe occurs when the muscles in your feet become unbalanced and your toe develops a sideways bend in your middle toe joint. Hammertoes are often associated with bunions that can contribute to the development of hammertoes. Pain can result from the undue pressure hammertoes can create in shoe fit.

If you have questions about hammertoes, we have much more information on our website www.nastfootandankle.com. For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com

Fungal Nails: A Simple Solution

Onychomycosis, or more commonly referred to as fungal nails, is a condition that presents as thickened, darkly discolored nails. The cause is typically due to dermatophytes that infect the nail and lead to dystrophic changes to the nail plate.  Many people are effected with this problem and it can be extremely disheartening for most as they are ashamed to have their feet seen in public.  In addition, if left untreated the nails can even become painful.  The treatment for this condition is simple with one pill taken once a day for approximately 3 months.

The medication Terbanifine, also known by the trade name of Lamisil, is prescribed for treatment of onychomycosis. However, most patients are scared to take this oral medication due to serious side effects associated with it, including liver damage.  The truth of the matter is that the risk of becoming inflicted with one of these side effects is extremely rare, but most people don’t realize that.  A blood test is performed to ensure normal liver function prior to taking Lamisil, and once a month while taking the medication.  Very rarely has a patient ever returned with abnormal blood test results and, more significantly, I have never had a patient who has suffered from a serious side effect due to taking Lamisil.  Seeking medical attention for treatment of onychomycosis should not be delayed.  Lamisil is safe and effective, leading to clearer, healthy looking nails in a matter of months.

If you have questions about onychomycosis or fungal nails we have much more information on our website www.nastfootandankle.com. For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com

Nail Infections

Most people are unaware of having a fungal nail problem and, therefore, don’t seek treatment. Yet, fungal toenail infections are a common foot health problem. The disease, characterized by a change in a toenail’s color, is often considered nothing more than a mere blemish. Left untreated, however, it can present serious problems.

The fungal nail is also referred to as onychomycosis, which occurs underneath the nail’s surface and may also penetrate the nail. Secondary bacterial and/or yeast infections can accompany fungal nails and cause pain or discomfort. Symptoms are typically nail discoloration, brittleness, loosening and thickening.

Some fungi, known as dermophytes, attack the nail for it’s protein substance, keratin. Symptoms of these fungi are commonly foul smelling, thicker, and darker or yellow colored nails. Small white marks can appear on the nail plate and the infection can spread to other nails, skin and even fingernails.

Injuries of the nail bed may make the nail more susceptible to infection. Even more susceptible candidates are those who suffer chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions. Other contributory factors may be a history of Athlete’s Foot or excessive perspiration.

These precautions can help prevent fungal nail infections:

• Exercise proper hygiene and regularly inspect your feet and toes.
• Keep your feet clean and dry.
• Wear shower shoes in public facilities whenever possible.
• Clip nails straight across so that the nail does not extend beyond the tip of the toe.
• Use a quality foot powder (talcum, not cornstarch) in conjunction with shoes that fit well and are made of materials that breathe.
• Avoid wearing excessively tight hosiery, which promotes moisture. Socks made of synthetic fiber tend to “wick” away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks, especially for those with more active lifestyles.
• Disinfect home pedicure tools and don’t apply polish to nails suspected of infection.

Depending on the type of infection you have, over-the-counter liquid antifungal agents may not prevent a fungal infection from recurring. A topical or oral medication may need to be prescribed, and the diseased nail matter and debris removed, a process called debridement. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications.

Surgical treatment may be necessary in some cases to remove the infected nail. Permanent removal of a chronically painful nail, which has not responded to any other treatment, permits the fungal infection to be cured and prevents the return of a deformed nail.

For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com

Healthy Feet – A Guide for Foot and Ankle Care

My name is Dr. Jorge Nasr and I am the founder of Nasr Foot and Ankle Center. I wrote Healthy Feet because I am a specialist in the care and treatment of feet and ankles.  I’m also an active member of my community. Because of my unique training in the care of feet and ankles, I see people every day who suffer from foot pain. So often, my patients tell me that they’ve been experiencing symptoms, including pain, for very long periods of time before they finally come in to see me. In some cases, they’ve waited years!

When they finally do come in, in almost every case, I am able to alleviate their pain, treat their condition, and drastically improve their quality of life. Often their pain is relieved before they even leave the office! The big question I used to ask myself is “Why?” Why do people suffer needlessly for years when a quick trip to see me almost always relieves their problems? It used to bother me, but as I’ve continued to see patients I’ve come to
understand that sometimes fear of the unknown is stronger than the pain or inconveniences my patients face.

What I’ve also learned is that in case after case – even though my patients could have saved themselves time, trouble, and expense by just coming in to see me – patients didn’t have enough information to help them clearly understand their foot pain and the incredible options that state-of-the art podiatric medicine offers today.

So, I created this publication. I wrote it for you. I also wrote it to help you clearly understand what is happening with your feet and to help you get a sense of the help that is awaiting you at a podiatrist’s office. I hope it is helpful and that it answers your questions. If after reading it you think you might be helped by seeing a podiatrist, I hope you consider Nasr Foot and Ankle Center.
My staff and I will do everything we can to treat your condition, reduce or eliminate your pain, and make you feel at home.

For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com

When should I contact a Podiatrist?

People call a doctor of podiatry for help diagnosing and treating a wide array of foot and ankle problems. Please contact our office if you experience one of the following:

• Persistent pain in your feet or ankles.
• Changes in the nails or skin on your foot.
• Severe cracking, scaling, or peeling on the heel or foot.
• Blisters on your feet.

There are signs of bacterial infection, including:

• Increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, or heat.
• Red streaks extending from the affected area.
• Discharge or pus from an area on the foot.
• Foot or ankle symptoms that do not improve after two weeks of treatment with a nonprescription product.
• Spreading of an infection from one area of the foot to another, such as under the nail bed, skin under the nail, the nail itself, or the surrounding skin.

Thickening toenails that cause discomfort. Heel pain accompanied by a fever, redness (sometimes warmth), or numbness; tingling in the heel; persistent heel pain without putting any weight or pressure on your heel; or pain that is not alleviated by ice or over-the-counter painkillers (such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Diabetics with poor circulation who develop Athlete’s Foot.

For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com