At the practice of Patrick Fettinger, DPM, we know it’s easy to avoid thinking about unsightly podiatric problems during the colder months when feet are hidden away in socks and closed shoes or boots. However, summer is rapidly approaching, and as you start getting out your sandals and open-style shoes, now is the time to take care of any foot problems that you find less than attractive. Below are some common conditions that concern our Fairfield County patients.

Bunions and Hammertoes

When toes first begin to move out of place or bend in abnormal ways, the changes may be subtle. These are progressive conditions, however, and will get worse over time without treatment. In addition to a less than attractive appearance, these types of toe deformities will become painful and make finding comfortable shoes very difficult. There are several treatment options available for slowing the progression and correcting bunions and hammertoes. These include:

• Choosing shoes made of soft, flexible materials that have wide, roomy toe boxes.
• Using a custom orthotic to help correct biomechanical problems and shift pressure away from painful areas.
• Cortisone injections and other medications to treat pain and inflammation.
• Surgery to correct the deformity.

Our podiatrist, Dr. Patrick J. Fettinger, will determine the best treatment based on the severity of your condition.

Toenail Fungus

Patients may have a fungal nail for a long time and not feel the need to seek treatment because it is not causing any pain or discomfort. However, these infections can spread and may cause a bacterial or yeast infection to develop. In some cases, the nail will become thickened, discolored, and even start to give off a foul odor. The edges of the nail can become crumbly as well. There are both topical and oral medications to help eliminate toenail fungus as well as laser therapy.

Warts

Warts come in a few varieties, some raised and fleshy, others are flat, brown, or gray with a rough surface and tiny pinpoints of black in the center—all of them are unattractive! Warts can be difficult to cure. We recommend avoiding over-the-counter treatments that contain acid or harsh chemicals that can harm the healthy skin tissue around the wart.

If you have any of the above conditions or some other podiatric problem that is affecting the appearance of your feet, don’t hesitate to contact our New Fairfield (203-746-9660) or Middlebury (203-598-0357) offices for an appointment and get your feet ready for summer.