Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is not always caused by the same organism. The three main types of fungi that infect nails are dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. Dermatophytes are the most common and feed on keratin, the protein that forms the nail. These infections often cause yellow or white discoloration, thickening, and a brittle texture. Yeast infections may lead to redness, swelling around the cuticle, and lifting of the nail plate. Molds are less common but can create dark brown, black, or green discoloration with irregular nail changes. The nail may appear distorted, crumbly, or separated from the nail bed. A podiatrist can evaluate the nail, take a small sample for testing, and determine the exact cause. Treatment may include topical medication, oral antifungal therapy, or careful trimming of damaged nails. If you have nail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a major nerve on the inside of the ankle becomes compressed as it travels into the foot. This pressure can create tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp discomfort that may radiate into the arch, heel, or toes. Symptoms often feel worse after long periods of standing or walking, and some people notice relief only when they rest. Because the nerve sits in a tight space surrounded by ligaments and bone, anything that increases swelling or strain in the area can trigger irritation, including flat feet, prior injury, or certain medical conditions. Ignoring these sensations can lead to ongoing instability or increasing sensitivity in the foot. Early care focuses on reducing pressure, improving support, and calming inflammation to protect the nerve. If the tingling or burning continues or begins to affect your daily routine, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain is sometimes an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints. Unlike wear and tear osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis often affects both feet and can involve the toes, midfoot, ankles, and surrounding soft tissues. People may notice stiffness that is worse in the morning, swelling, warmth, or pain that improves slowly with movement. Over time, inflammation can lead to joint deformities, changes in walking patterns, and increased pressure on certain areas of the foot. Early recognition is important because rheumatoid arthritis can progress and affect daily mobility. Wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and activity modifications may help reduce strain on painful joints. When foot pain, swelling, or stiffness persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment. Coordinated care with a rheumatologist is often part of long-term management. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures are small cracks in foot bones that develop from repetitive impact and overuse, most commonly seen in runners. They occur when training demands exceed the ability of bone to repair and adapt. Symptoms often begin as mild pain during activity, and gradually progress to persistent pain, tenderness, and swelling in a specific area of the foot or ankle. Diagnosis involves a detailed history, physical examination, and imaging such as X-rays to confirm bone stress. Risk factors include sudden increases in training intensity, wearing inadequate footwear, poor biomechanics, and low bone strength. A podiatrist can identify stress fractures early, guide activity modification, and create a recovery plan to promote proper healing. If you have sustained a stress fracture in your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Intermittent claudication is a common symptom of peripheral artery disease, or PAD, and reflects reduced blood flow to the legs during activity. Intermittent claudication is a tight, aching, or squeezing pain in the calf, foot, thigh, or buttock. It typically begins after a certain amount of walking or climbing but eases with rest. As circulation becomes more limited, pain may start sooner, walking distance shortens, and legs can feel weak or cramp. Advanced PAD can cause pain at rest, cold or numb toes, slow healing sores, skin color changes, or shiny skin, which signals higher risk to the feet. Because several conditions can mimic intermittent claudication, a podiatrist plays an important role in evaluation, vascular screening, foot exams, and coordination of appropriate care. For help dealing with symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gradual changes in toe position can be an early sign of a hammertoe, where one or more toes bend at the middle joint and no longer rest flat. Common signs include toe stiffness, irritation from footwear, and corns or calluses. As the hammertoe progresses, the toe may become rigid, limiting movement and causing more pain. Muscle imbalance, nerve conditions, injury, and long-term pressure on the toes can all contribute to this toe deformity. A podiatrist can evaluate toe alignment, joint flexibility, and foot structure to confirm the diagnosis and determine treatment. Some cases of hammertoe may require surgery to correct alignment and relieve pain. If you notice changes to the structure of your toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain can weaken muscles and reduce joint control, making exercises an important part of recovery. Gentle range of motion movements, like slowly drawing the alphabet with the toes, can help restore mobility without placing excess stress on healing tissues. Stretching the calf muscles may reduce stiffness around the ankle and improve flexibility while walking. As strength improves, controlled exercises like heel raises help rebuild stability by engaging the muscles that support the ankle joint. Balance activities, including standing on one foot, are often used to improve coordination and reduce the risk of repeat sprains. These exercises should progress gradually, since pushing too quickly may delay healing or cause further injury. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability and recommend exercises that match the stage of recovery, while monitoring for ligament damage or joint problems. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, treatment, and exercise options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

When gout in the feet becomes painful, surgery can be necessary to protect joint function. Repeated flares can lead to chronic tophaceous gout, a stage where tophi develop. Tophi are deposits made of uric acid crystals that collect around toes and joints, placing pressure on skin, nerves, and bone. Gout surgery is considered when tophi leak, become infected, cause severe pain, or interfere with walking or wearing shoes with inadequate support. Procedures include removing tophi or crystals to reduce pressure, or fusing small foot joints to control pain and instability. A podiatrist evaluates imaging, circulation, and nerve involvement to determine if surgery is appropriate and to plan care focused on long-term foot health. If you are experiencing chronic gout symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and options for advanced treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.