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Signs of Toenail Fungus

Tuesday, 16 June 2026

Toenail fungus affects the nail and the skin beneath it. It develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin, often in warm and moist environments. Early signs may include discoloration, usually yellow or white, along with thickening and brittleness of the nail. As the condition progresses, the nail may become distorted, crumbly, or separate from the nail bed. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, excessive sweating, and aging. Conditions that affect circulation may also be factors. The infection tends to worsen over time, if not treated, and can spread to other nails. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, determine its severity, and provide targeted treatments to restore nail health and prevent recurrence. If you notice signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

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 John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor 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 Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When an Ingrown Toenail Keeps Coming Back

Tuesday, 09 June 2026

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of resting above it. This can cause tenderness, swelling, redness, and sometimes drainage, if an infection develops. Tight shoes, improper nail trimming, injury, and natural nail shape can all play a role. Early cases may improve with conservative care, but some ingrown nails continue to return or become increasingly painful. When simpler treatments do not bring relief, a podiatrist may recommend a minor in-office procedure that removes the problem section of the nail while preserving the rest. This targeted approach is commonly chosen because it is straightforward, well-tolerated, and associated with a smooth recovery for many patients. The goal is to ease discomfort and lower the chance of the issue returning. If you have a painful or recurring ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

Improper toenail trimming
Genetics
Improper shoe fitting
Injury from pedicures or nail picking
Abnormal gait
Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Common Reasons for the Development of a Hammertoe

Tuesday, 02 June 2026

Hammertoes are considered to be a foot deformity, commonly affecting the second, third or fourth toes. This condition can cause the toe to bend downward, resembling a hammer. Hammertoes can be brought on by a muscle imbalance in the feet, wearing tightly fitted shoes, and nerve damage, which is often linked to complications with diabetes. Hereditary reasons pertaining to the overall structure of the legs and feet can also play a role in the development of a hammertoe. To help treat this condition, custom orthotics are often prescribed to improve the structure and function of the affected toe. For a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan, please consult with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor 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 Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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