Are Pedicures Really to Blame?

So what harm can a pedicure really do? What are the pesky culprits behind the danger of a pedicure? One Word: Dermatophytes.

Dermatophytes are the main fungus responsible for nail infections, and is also the same fungus which causes athletes foot. While most cases are caused by this fungus the actual 'type' of infection can vary with severity and symptoms. For details on each type visit here. 

The most commonly seen fungal infection is called Distal Subungual Onychomycosis (DSO). In this case the infection starts at the end of the nail bed, and part of the nail often turns yellow or white, and may thicken. Pieces of skin and nail fragments build up under the nail. As the condition gets worse, the nail may crumble and split, and it may separate from the skin. This condition can progress at a fast pace if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

How can a pedicure cause you an infection? 

It’s not just about the salon; it’s also about the condition of your feet. You do need to be certain your salon sanitizes properly, but their uncleanliness isn’t all to blame. Bacteria and fungus live everywhere, and sometimes even fight through the harshest chemicals. Due to this you need to be proactive. Don’t get a pedicure if you have any cuts, scrapes, scabs, sore spots, inflammation, etc. on your feet or legs (within pedicure territory). The living bacteria and fungus are given a gateway to infection through these areas. If your immune system isn’t strong enough or the strand is particularly stubborn you will end up fighting a long road of infection. For extra tips on a safe pedicure visit our previous blog post: Keeping Your Toes Pretty for Spring.

At Carolina Foot Specialists we offer many treatment options including topical antifungal treatment, oral antifungal treatment, nail avulsion, and laser treatment of the toenails. The majority of cases, if caught early enough, can be treated with nail trimming and topical antifungal medication- we recommend a product called ClearNails-pro, available at our office. 

Are you seeing signs of a fungal infection? Call us today!
Charleston Office*843-225-5575 Mount Pleasant Office*843-654-8250

Barefoot: Safe or Sorry?

It is summertime in Charleston. Weather is warm, sun is shining and the grass is plush and green- so the question remains… do we really need shoes?

Like so many other questions there isn’t one simple conclusive answer. 

Many studies today are promoting ‘earthing’- the practice of walking barefoot on natural surfaces, such as sand, soil, grass etc.  “Early studies are showing that the health benefits come from the relationship between our bodies and the electrons in the earth. The planet has its own natural charge, and we seem to do better when we’re in direct contact with it,” via MindBodyGreen.com.

Aside from the natural link of walking barefoot, doing so can also expose your feet to substantial injury, infections and bacteria. Also, walking barefoot at the beach can expose your feet to burns from the sand or pavement.

Since the age of man the invention of shoes has decreased the function of the feet. Meaning that the first humans’ feet were more durable, less sensitive and tougher in structure- by shoeing feet our general foot structure has evolved over time to need more support and protection.

Being barefoot is freeing and, when done safely, is completely okay. However the idea that we can go shoeless as our ancestors did is not realistic.  

When going barefoot remember these tips:

- Wear sunscreen on your feet

- Properly bandage any open wounds or scrapes (or wear shoes until wounds are healed to avoid infections)

- Avoid going barefoot in extra germy environments such as public pools, waterparks and docks (always clean & dry feet well before putting shoes back on)

- Wear shoes on any rough surfaces such as pavement, cement, splintery docks and so forth

Fighting the Fungus

Fungal infections can be tricky and sometimes hard to notice. Fungus can affect the toenail for years before causing any trouble or showing any signs. If you’ve noticed changes in the formation or color of your nail, whether quickly or over time, you may be suffering from a toenail fungus.

Although some over the counter treatments and routine cleaning can suppress or temporarily treat the issue, seeking help early is the best method to prevent spreading or a more severe infection.

The best tip for avoiding fungal issues it to keep your feet clean and DRY! This is especially important during our hot Charleston Summers.

Leaving feet wet and/or dirty may not only cause toenail fungus but other fungal conditions such as athletes foot.

For more information on Fungal Conditions visit our Website.