Blog

Understanding Toenail Fungus

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Toenail fungus is a common infection that develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or separations. Affected nails may look thickened or discolored, and may become brittle, crumbly, or misshapen over time. The nail can feel tender, sensitive to pressure, or uncomfortable in shoes, although some people notice changes in appearance before pain. Causes include damp environments, sweaty footwear, nail injuries, and medical conditions, such as diabetes. A podiatrist can help from the start by accurately diagnosing the infection and ruling out other nail disorders. Early treatment may include prescription topical or oral medications, nail thinning, and hygiene guidance. Care can then progress into advanced therapies, ongoing monitoring, and preventive strategies to reduce recurrence and protect nail health. Treating toenail fungus early can improve comfort, appearance, and overall foot health. If you think you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

How to Know if You Are Running With a Foot Stress Fracture

Tuesday, 17 February 2026

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated impact and overuse rather than a sudden injury. Runners may continue training without realizing an injury is present because symptoms often begin gradually. Common signs include pain, swelling, and tenderness that develops during activity and improves with rest. One key warning sign is an isolated spot of pain that can be pinpointed with a finger and feels sharp or aching with pressure. Continuing to run can worsen the injury and prolong healing. A podiatrist can perform a detailed examination, order appropriate imaging, and confirm whether a stress fracture is present. They can also guide footwear choices and a safe return to running plan. If foot pain persists or becomes more focused, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

Runners
People affected with Osteoporosis
Tennis or basketball players
Gymnasts
High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Effective Foot Stretches for Plantar Fasciitis Relief

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Plantar fasciitis can cause significant heel pain, often resulting from inflammation of the connective tissue along the bottom of the foot. Targeted foot stretches can help relieve discomfort and improve flexibility. Calf stretches and step stretches lengthen tight muscles and tendons, reducing strain on the heel. Doming exercises strengthen the arch, while toe spread and squeeze movements improve overall foot stability and control. Performing these stretches consistently can support healing and prevent further injury. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend the most effective exercises, and offer additional treatments such as custom orthotics and supportive footwear advice to enhance recovery. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer additional remedies and stretching techniques for relief.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Wednesday, 04 February 2026

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Athlete's Foot and How It Affects Skin Health

Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It often begins between the toes and may cause itching, redness, scaling, burning, or cracking skin. Warm, damp environments like sweaty shoes and locker rooms allow fungus to thrive and spread easily. Symptoms of athlete’s foot can return if the infection is not fully cleared. Persistent moisture, skin breaks, and weakened immunity can increase risk. Proper foot hygiene, drying the feet thoroughly, and wearing breathable footwear help reduce recurrence. Untreated infections can spread to the nails or other areas of the foot. If you suspect you have persistent athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include prescription topical or oral medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

Hydrate your feet by using lotion
Exfoliate
Buff off nails
Use of anti-fungal products
Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Blog

Understanding Toenail Fungus

How to Know if You Are Running With a Foot Stress Fracture

Effective Foot Stretches for Plantar Fasciitis Relief

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Athlete's Foot and How It Affects Skin Health

Blog Archives

Useful Links

Treatment Options

Contact Us