Blog

Symptoms and Causes of Fungal Toenails

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Fungal toenails develop gradually and affect the appearance and health of nails. Symptoms include thickened nails, discoloration ranging from yellow to brown, brittle edges, and changes in nail shape. Some people notice lifting of the nail from the nail bed, surface debris, or an unpleasant odor. Discomfort can occur when pressure is applied. Causes are linked to fungal organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments and enter through small breaks in the nail or surrounding skin. Risk factors include nail trauma, reduced circulation, and advancing age. Certain medical conditions and prolonged exposure to damp footwear or communal surfaces are other factors. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through examination and testing and rule out other nail disorders. Medical treatment is aimed at clearing infection and protecting nail growth. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, 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 Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. 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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns and When to Seek Podiatric Care

Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Corns are areas of thickened skin that develop as a response to ongoing friction and pressure on the feet. They commonly form on the tops and sides of toes or between toes where shoes rub repeatedly. Wearing tight footwear, abnormal toe positioning, and foot deformities are frequent causes that increase stress on the skin. There are different types of corns, including hard corns on bony areas and soft corns that appear between toes and may stay moist. Corns can be quite painful, especially when pressure is applied during walking or standing. A podiatrist can safely treat corns, relieve discomfort, and address the underlying cause. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

Well-fitting socks
Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Friday, 30 January 2026

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

When a Painful Bump Develops Near the Little Toe

Tuesday, 27 January 2026

A tailor’s bunion, or bunionette, is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the little toe along the outer edge of the foot. It develops when the bone in this area shifts position or the surrounding tissue becomes irritated over time. Foot structure and genetics often play a role, and wearing narrow or tight shoes can worsen symptoms. People may notice redness, swelling, or a sore spot that rubs against footwear. Discomfort can increase with walking, standing, or wearing stiff shoes. Even mild cases may become painful if pressure continues. Although the bump may appear small, it can interfere with daily activities and shoe comfort. Early care focuses on reducing pressure to help prevent progression and ongoing irritation. Because symptoms can mimic other conditions, proper evaluation matters. If pain, swelling, or shoe irritation along the outer foot persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
Orthotics or foot inserts
Surgery

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

Comfortable Shoes for Employees Across All Professions

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

Wearing comfortable shoes is essential for employees in all professions, whether work involves standing, walking, or sitting for long periods of time. Proper footwear supports the feet, promotes good posture, and helps reduce strain on the joints and lower back. When shoes feel comfortable and sensible, employees are more likely to stay focused, energized, and productive throughout the day. Uncomfortable footwear can lead to fatigue, pain, and decreased performance over time. Comfortable shoes should offer supportive cushioning, stable soles, and a proper fit that allows natural movement. A podiatrist can help evaluate foot health, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide custom orthotics, when needed. If you have foot pain during your work day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate shoes to wear while working.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Blog

Blog Archives