In past columns, we’ve detailed the innovative new Cool Touch laser therapy procedure for onychomycosis, or fungal toenails. We believe this to be the best toenail fungus treatment currently available to patients, and encourage anyone suffering from nail fungus to learn more about how the Cool Touch laser works. Unlike traditional fungus treatments, which carry potentially dangerous side effects, the Cool Touch laser is safe, non-invasive and fully effective – and requires neither internal medication nor surgical downtime.
Earlier this month, “Dancing with the Stars” contestant and “Extra” host Maria Menounos made headlines when she excelled in competition despite sustaining significant injuries on the show. In a piece for the Las Vegas Sun, Menounos discussed her foot pain injury, explaining that she broke three toes on her left foot and two on her right. “My whole equilibrium is off,” said Menounos, who added that the doctors on the show said she “shouldn’t continue dancing” with her injuries. However, the TV star said that she refused to comply, despite the pain. “I’m not giving up now when we’re so close,” she said.
So-called “minimalist” running shoes are all the rage these days, with athletes and authors alike touting the benefits of emulating our ancient ancestors and running au natural. But despite the many positive barefoot running shoe reviews promoted by manufacturers and advocates of the trend, recent medical studies suggest that the shoes, as well as barefoot running itself, may contribute to a variety of injuries and harmful health conditions – not to mention reduced running efficiency overall.
In previous columns, we have discussed the ease and efficacy with which nail fungus laser treatment eradicates toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, in affected patients. Popular interest in such treatments has grown considerably in recent months; and now, researchers at the Arizona Institute of Footcare Physicians are conducting a clinical trial in which 100 patients will receive laser nail treatment over the course of 27 weeks in order to further solidify research regarding success rates using a so-called cold laser to break down fungal cells. Early studies have shown success rates ranging from 80-90%, with some patients undergoing only a single treatment; and under the care of experienced podiatrist, these innovative laser treatments can eliminate the need for potentially harmful oral fungus medications, as well as unsightly and uncomfortable nails.
These days, the vast majority of people are working to improve some aspect of their overall health. Popular resolutions can range from increased exercise and healthier eating habits to quitting smoking or simply taking a daily multivitamin; but amidst all these other goals, proper foot care often falls by the wayside. Common foot problems, such as foot pain, ingrown nails, athlete’s foot or bunions, are all too often neglected at the outset – and subsequently permitted to progress to the point where professional treatment is required to reverse the problem. In most cases, improved preventative care is all it takes to keep these conditions at bay. However, some conditions may require professional treatment or even surgery: and before attempting to self-diagnose or self-treat any foot injury, pain or infection, it is important to consult an experienced professional podiatrist to ensure proper diagnosis and a safe solution for lasting health.
The Miami Heat’s superstar shooting guard Dwayne Wade made headlines last week after his girlfriend, actress Gabrielle Union, threw him a spectacular and star-studded birthday bash at a swanky South Beach hotel. However, once the festivities subsided, it became clear that the Heat’s prized player would nevertheless remain on the sidelines when it came to his day job, thanks to a persistent foot injury and now a sprained ankle – both of which have kept him off the court throughout much of the team’s early season.
Even during our current economic crisis, while budgets are tight and many individuals are battling to trim expenses, countless women keep up their visits to the nail salon for manicures and pedicures – either to try a new trend like longer-lasting gel nail lacquer, or to simply enjoy a little pampering amidst an otherwise busy schedule. But despite their appeal and ostensive purpose as a way to keep feet and nails healthy and well-groomed, some salons can be risky: and now, warnings are popping up everywhere from Allure magazine to WebMD Health News, urging patrons to heed the potential dangers of unsanitary spa treatments.
Hollywood beauties and bunion surgery may seem an unlikely pair when it comes to tabloid headlines; but after several media outlets including Access Hollywood and People Magazine covered Victoria Beckham’s penchant for sky-high stilettos during her pregnancy – and the bunion surgery and back problems that supposedly followed – USA Today ran a piece outlining top shoe trends that some believe contribute to painful bunions and other foot and posture disorders. However, what fashionistas and average folks alike may fail to realize is that most bunion cases are hereditary – and that, while there is certainly a distinction between supportive and purely decorative footwear, it often has little to do with an individual’s need for bunion surgery.
Football season is almost upon us, and San Diego Chargers fans are already swept up in a flurry of preseason excitement. Until last week, however, Antonio Gates’ relegation to the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list admittedly had some of those fans a little nervous (according to the Union Tribune, the Chargers wanted to be cautious with Gates following his struggles with plantar fasciitis last year).
San Diego is finally reveling in a long-awaited bout of summer weather. But as sandal season kicks into full gear, unsightly feet and fungal nails can put a damper on everything from social gatherings by the pool to simple comfort in scorching temperatures. For individuals suffering from onychomycosis (or toenail fungus, as it’s more commonly known), a day at the beach can become an anxiety-filled ordeal. But now, innovations in laser technology have paved the way to a safe, effective and non-invasive fungus treatment alternative.
