Black Toenails

A black or darkened toenail usually means that the toenail is bruised. The toenail turns black because there is blood under the nail. Bruising can occur from simply stubbing one’s toe, hitting it on a chair leg, or from running. Runners are prone to black toenails because the toenail rubs against the shoe, especially ill-fitted shoes. Runners should purchase shoes a half size bigger than their normal size to allow from movement of the foot and toes. If a toenail turns black without being injured, get the toenail checked right away. Similar coloring without trauma can indicate melanoma.

The only treatment for a bruised toenail is time. Eventually the nail will grow out. But, a bruised toenail can lead to a fungal nail infection if not properly cared for and cleaned. If the nail is already black, the infection is severe and sometimes the nail will fall off completely. An appointment needs to be made immediately to stop the spreading of the infection by prescription medication. A new toenail will start to grow back in six to nine months.

Fungus can be picked up at any public area, shower, gyms, or saunas. Always wear proper footwear outside to avoid contracting a fungus.
 

Diabetics need to be especially concerned with any changes of the toenails, whether the color turns black or yellow. The pressure causing the bruised nail can lead to a small sore under the toenail which can lead to infection.


Image by kteague. (2011). Flickr. Black toenail, 12 days after injury. Retrieved from
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kteague/758249805/

Can Back Pain be Caused by Foot Problems?

Every foot is unique, so why aren’t shoes? Shoes are made in various lengths and a few different widths, but are not uniquely made to conform to the contours of each individual’s feet. Shoes purchased in a store do not offer proper individual support.

Feet are the foundation of the body, and provide alignment and balance to the rest of the body. If feet are not aligned properly, the rest of one’s body is not properly aligned. This can cause pain in the ankles, knees, lower back, and neck.

Would you have guessed that feet are a common cause of lower back pain? If you said no, you are not alone. In terms of the number of bones in the body, the feet have about a quarter of them. With that many bones and numerous ligaments, it’s a wonder that people don’t look to there feet as a source of pain and discomfort related to many areas of their body.

Current statistics show that nearly 80% of Americans complain of back pain. Of course not all 80% are due to foot pain. If one is experiencing back, hip, or neck pain, make an appointment with a Podiatrist for a check up. Pain may be relieved by use of orthotics or individualized foot wear. Orthotics form a properly fitted arch which supports, provides comfort and balance, and improves posture.

Foot Ulceration Symptoms & Care

Foot ulcerations are foot wounds or open sores, and are common among diabetics. The cause of foot ulcerations is peripheral vascular disease.

What happens is that since diabetics have poor blood circulation which causes them to be unable to feel if sores are present. Untreated wounds or sores eventually turn into foot ulcers. 

Foot ulcers can prompt infections of the bloodstream which can lead to amputation or death.
The consequences are severe if left untreated. Diabetics need to inspect their feet and ankles frequently to monitor any changes that may appear and seek treatment right away.

Symptoms of foot ulcers:

•             Irritation of the skin such as blistering and redness

•             Open wounds that drain fluid

•             Infection, swelling or pus

•             High blood sugar levels

•             Odor

•             Fever

•             Pain

•             Discoloration of the foot; look for white, blue or black spots

If a diabetic does have a wound or sore, proper would care and dressing is vital. Care for would by:

• Keep blood sugar levels under control.

• Keep the ulcer clean and bandaged.

• Clean the wound daily, using a wound dressing or bandage.

• Keep pressure off of the foot by walking less until the wound is healed.

• Always wear shoes. Never go barefoot.

Medline Plus. Diabetes - foot ulcers. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000077.htm

What is Sesamoiditis?

Sesamoiditis  is not a term used often in one’s household, but the condition still exists even if one doesn’t know the technical term. Sesamoiditis occurs when tendons around the big toe are injured and inflamed. Those that may be unfamiliar with the anatomy of the foot, the sesamoid bones are a pair of tiny bones about the size of a jelly bean that help with holding the tendons away from the joint in the big toe. 

Symptoms:

• Pain during physical activity below the first metatarsal joint in the big toe & ball of the foot
• Swelling under the first metatarsal joint
• Tenderness in the surrounding tissue

Causes:

• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Trauma to the sesamoid bones
• Repeated stresses over time.
• Women who frequently wear high heels
• Increased stress on the forefoot

Treatment:

• Rest and ice
• Wear a foot pad under the toe in a comfortable shoe
• Wear low-heeled shoes
• Steroid injections may be helpful in some cases
• Visit a podiatrist if pain persists for further diagnosis and treatment