Thick toenails can develop for several reasons, and understanding the cause helps guide proper treatment. One of the most frequent reasons is a fungal infection, which can make the nail appear yellow, brittle, and difficult to trim. Repeated trauma from wearing tight shoes or stubbing the toe can also cause the nail to thicken as it tries to protect itself. Aging naturally slows nail growth and can change texture over time. In some cases, medical conditions such as psoriasis or poor circulation may contribute to nail thickening. A podiatrist can identify the cause through examination and testing, then recommend the right treatment, which may include antifungal medication, nail debridement, or improved footwear. If your toenails have become thick, painful, or hard to manage, it is suggested that  you seek care from a podiatrist to restore nail health and prevent future problems.

For more information about treatment, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. 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 Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail removal is sometimes necessary when severe injury, chronic ingrown growth, or infection damages the nail and surrounding tissue. An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail edge presses into the skin, leading to inflammation, drainage, and discomfort that worsens with pressure or while wearing tight shoes. If an infection develops or the nail repeatedly grows into the skin, removal may be needed to prevent further tissue damage. A podiatrist can determine whether partial or complete toenail removal is appropriate. In some cases, the nail matrix, which is the tissue that produces nail growth, is treated to prevent recurrence. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, allowing the podiatrist to remove the affected section and safely clean the area. If you have a seriously infected toenail, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and relief solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Proper footwear plays an essential role in healthy foot development for children. A child’s foot contains 26 bones and 35 joints, supported by soft tissues that are still developing strength and stability. When toddlers first begin walking, many appear flat-footed or may turn their feet inward, which usually improves as the arches and muscles strengthen. Shoes should provide protection without restricting natural movement, allowing the toes to spread and the foot to flex. Properly fitted footwear should include a wide toe box, flexible sole that bends near the front, and a secure heel counter to support alignment. Shoes that lack adequate support or are too tight can interfere with walking, and contribute to ingrown toenails or abnormal gait. A podiatrist can assess the structure and function of a child’s feet, monitor growth, and recommend footwear that reduces the risk of long-term complications. If your child is experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

As one ages, osteoarthritis can affect the joints of the feet and ankles, gradually wearing down the cartilage that allows smooth, pain-free movement. As the cushioning thins, bones begin to rub together, leading to soreness, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms often appear in the midfoot, big toe, or ankle, making walking or standing uncomfortable. Over time, the loss of flexibility can interfere with daily activities and balance. While osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, proper treatment can greatly reduce pain and improve function. A podiatrist can pinpoint which joints are affected and provide solutions such as custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and advanced therapies to ease discomfort. Addressing symptoms early helps preserve mobility and prevent further joint damage. If your feet feel stiff or achy and movement has become more difficult, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and long-term comfort.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.