More serious medical conditions that mar the foot's appearance can be treated.
"With most foot problems, you can either accommodate and live with it or you go through elective surgery and try to eliminate the problem," Dr. Brad Anderson says.
For example, crooked feet, often caused by heredity, can be treated through surgery.
If you are developing corns or other blemishes from an orthopedic disorder, you should seek a consultation.
People with diabetes should check with their doctor before using any products or starting any foot-care regimen.
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Sweaty feet
Often, people with very sweaty feet have a condition known as hyperhidrosis. Anderson says the sweaty smell comes from a topical bacterial infection.
"They can wash their feet in antibacterial soap and that will help eliminate odor," Anderson says.
A topical prescription, which can be an ointment, cream, paste or liquid, can help stop sweatiness.
Fungal toenail
Fungal toenails are characterized by thick, yellow nails. Anderson says there are four options to dealing with this problem.
- First, you can live with it, trimming and filing the nail or having a professional do that if the nail is too hard.
- Second, topical antifungals can be effective, but never get rid of the fungus completely. Anderson says there is only one of these approved by the FDA, and it is available by prescription only.
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- Oral anti-fungals, available by prescription only, are also effective. Anderson says they work 60-75 percent of the time.
- Finally, you can have the nail removed, which is 100-percent effective. A flat, pink nail plate remains, which can be painted.
If you have lost your toenail, for example by jamming it, Cyndi Broekemeier says a pedicurist can sculpt a toenail that can remain in place until a new one grows.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Sherri Richards at (701) 235-7311
