Items filtered by date: August 2025

When the nerves in the feet lose sensation or do not send signals properly, the risk of injury increases. Cuts, blisters, or sores may go unnoticed and can become infected before they are detected. Reduced awareness of temperature can lead to burns from hot surfaces, or frostbite in cold conditions. Balance may be affected, making falls more likely. Over time, untreated injuries and infections can progress to serious tissue damage, sometimes requiring surgical intervention. Chronic pain from nerve damage can also interfere with daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life. In people with diabetes, these complications are especially concerning, as slower healing can lead to further medical issues. Regular foot checks, wearing protective footwear, and prompt attention to any changes are essential steps in prevention. If you have symptoms of nerve damage, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and guided advice.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails, often leading to noticeable changes in their appearance. Toenail fungus can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail, sometimes resulting in separation from the nail bed. The infection is primarily caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, like the inside of shoes. Factors such as excessive sweating,  wearing tight footwear, nail trauma, or an existing fungal infection can increase the risk of developing toenail fungus. People with a weakened immune system or conditions like diabetes or poor circulation are at a higher risk. Symptoms of toenail fungus include discoloration, often yellow or brown, and changes in the texture of the nail. In severe cases, the nail may become painful or difficult to trim. If you notice changes in the appearance of your toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate 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 Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity where the toe bends downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It often affects the second, third, or fourth toe. Common causes include unusually long toe bones, muscle imbalances, rheumatoid arthritis, and foot injuries. Among other causes are bunions pushing against the toe, years of wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and genetic factors. Symptoms include pain while wearing shoes, visible bending of the toe, corns or calluses from friction, inflammation, redness, and restricted movement. The toe may appear raised at the joint and feel stiff or sore, especially during walking or pressure. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe with a physical exam and imaging, if needed. Treatment options include wearing roomier shoes, using custom orthotics, toe splints or pads, and prescribing anti-inflammatory medication. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be recommended. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Lowering the risk of falling is essential for maintaining mobility and preventing serious injuries, especially to the feet and ankles. Balance training can strengthen muscles and improve stability. Creating a safer home by removing loose rugs and improving lighting reduces tripping hazards. Having your vision checked and reviewing medications helps minimize dizziness and imbalance. Falls often lead to foot fractures, sprains, and lasting pain. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, recommend supportive footwear, and offer guidance on fall prevention strategies. If you have sustained a fall and have injured your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.