Summer is officially over, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to be aware of your toenails. As we transition into cooler temperatures and our feet spend more time in socks and shoes, your feet become more susceptible to toenail conditions like nail fungus. That’s why it’s important to take extra care in our toenail health and prevent it from developing.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus is a fungal infection that develops under the toenail that causes brittleness, discoloration, crumbling, and unpleasant odors. Once established, fungal nails can be difficult to eradicate without proper treatment from a podiatrist.
Paying close attention to how you care for your toenails can drastically help your chances of developing this condition.
Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly to keep them clean.
Avoid walking around barefoot, especially in public areas like gyms, locker rooms, and public pools.
Trim your toenails straight across rather than in a curved shape.
Switch your footwear each day to let them air out.
Switch your socks whenever they are wet. Opt for moisture-wicking materials.
Use antifungal sprays or powders in your shoes.
See a podiatrist if you observe any changes in your toenails. Any thickness, brittleness, or yellowing of toenails could be an indication of a spreading infection.
It’s easy to forget about your feet when they’re hidden in socks all the time, but making a look over a part of your daily routine can go a long way in preventing toenail problems and other foot and ankle issues.
Need help?
If you notice any changes in your toenails, be sure to schedule an appointment with an experienced podiatrist. At Tipton & Unroe Foot & Ankle Care, our team of dedicated foot doctors provide high-quality foot and ankle care for patients in the Louisville, KY area. Our podiatrists have access to advanced technologies to provide the best treatments for your foot and ankle issues, including heel pain, diabetic foot problems, nerve issues, sports injuries, and bunions. If foot problems are interfering with your daily life, don’t wait! Request an appointment online or contact any of our offices in Louisville, Bardstown, and LaGrange, KY to schedule an appointment!