Toenail fungus often begins as a white or yellow spot under the nail and can progress to thickening, discoloration, and crumbling, if left untreated. Fungal infections thrive in moist, enclosed environments like sweaty shoes or damp socks. To reduce risk and manage the condition, it is important to keep feet clean and dry, trim nails regularly, and wear breathable footwear. Avoid walking barefoot in public showers or pool areas, and disinfect nail tools after use. Mild antifungal creams may help in some cases, but deeper infections often require prescription medication or laser therapy. Fungal nails can be stubborn and take time to clear. Regular monitoring and consistent care are key. If the condition is not improving or spreading, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan that targets the infection at its source.

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 Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops from repetitive force or overuse, often seen in the foot and ankle due to their weight-bearing role. Common causes include intense physical activity, improper footwear, or sudden increases in training. Risk factors include low bone density, poor nutrition, and foot abnormalities. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort that worsens with activity. These injuries can be difficult to detect without proper imaging. A podiatrist can assess symptoms, order diagnostic tests, and develop a treatment plan. This may involve rest, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics. If you have symptoms of a foot and ankle stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome, medically referred to as subluxation of the midtarsal joint, occurs when the cuboid bone partially dislocates from its normal position. This condition is more common than many people realize, particularly among athletes and individuals with repetitive strain on the foot. Risk factors include overuse, poor footwear, ankle instability, and biomechanical abnormalities. Causes may involve acute injury or gradual stress that affects the surrounding ligaments. Symptoms often include lateral foot pain, difficulty walking, and tenderness near the midfoot. If left untreated, it can impact mobility and quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort, it is strongly suggested that you seek an evaluation from a podiatrist who can diagnose the issue and offer personalized treatment options for lasting relief.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.