Protect Your Feet from the Summer Sun

Just like the rest of your body, your feet are susceptible to sun damage. UV rays penetrate the layers of your skin, causing sunburn, premature aging, and increasing the risk of cancer. While the soles of your feet have thicker skin, the tops and ankles are vulnerable, especially for people who wear sandals or flip-flops regularly.

If we diligently protect our faces and arms with sunscreen, why should we neglect our feet? Here’s why you shouldn’t forget about protecting them from the sun’s harmful UV rays, according to our expert team at Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center.

The Risks of Sun-Exposed Feet

• Actinic Keratosis: These precancerous lesions appear as rough, scaly patches on skin exposed to the sun, especially during summer. While not cancerous themselves, they can develop into skin cancer if left untreated.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This is a type of skin cancer that can develop on the sensitive areas of the feet. Early detection can decrease the risk of complications, so be aware of any changes in the appearance of your skin, such as new moles, persistent scaling, or bleeding.
• Age spots: These are flat, brown spots that commonly appear on sun-exposed areas, including the tops of the feet. While benign, they can be a cosmetic concern for some.
• Pre-existing skin conditions: Sun exposure can worsen existing skin conditions on the feet, such as eczema or psoriasis, leading to increased itching, inflammation, and discomfort.

Protecting Your Feet This Summer

• Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the tops of your feet and ankles 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Sun-Protective Footwear:  Wear closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps that cover the tops of your feet. Look for materials like canvas or mesh that allow for ventilation while providing some sun protection.
• Examine Your Feet Regularly: Pay attention to any changes in the appearance of your skin, such as new moles, discolored spots, or changes in texture. If you notice anything concerning, consult a podiatrist.

Want to keep your feet happy and healthy this summer? We’re eager to help! Schedule a comprehensive foot examination with Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center podiatrist Dr. Jon M. Sherman. To schedule your appointment, please contact our office at 301-825-9697.

Fungal Toenail Troubles? Spring Forward with KeryFlex!

Spring has sprung! Yet, as folks embrace open-toed shoes and footwear, some must struggle with a pesky podiatric problem – fungal nails.

Also known as onychomycosis, these fungal infections commonly affect both toenails and fingernails. While topical and oral antifungal medications are available for treatment, they can take months to show results and often require ongoing use. Meanwhile, discolored, thickened nails can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment, preventing those afflicted from enjoying the carefree feeling of spring footwear.

That’s where the KeryFlex Nail Restoration System comes in! This blog will cover the ins and outs of this confidence-boosting treatment method, courtesy of the team at Kentlands Foot & Ankle Center.

A Confidence Booster for Your Feet

KeryFlex restores the appearance of damaged nails via a safe, painless, and in-office procedure.

• A specially formulated resin is applied directly to the area, creating a durable yet flexible artificial nail that mimics the look and feel of a healthy, natural one.
• Unlike some medications, KeryFlex provides an immediate cosmetic improvement, so you can ditch the closed-toe shoes with confidence!

Beyond Aesthetics: Complements Fungal Nail Treatment

While KeryFlex doesn’t treat the underlying fungal infection itself, it’s a valuable complement to other fungal nail treatments.

• It provides a protective barrier over the affected nail, which helps prevent fungus from spreading and improves the effectiveness of topical medications.
• Additionally, it promotes healthy nail growth by creating a stable base for the new nail to form underneath.

A Multitude of Benefits

• Durable and Flexible:

KeryFlex can withstand everyday wear and tear by moving in tandem with your feet and toes, allowing you to participate in your favorite spring activities worry-free.

• Non-Irritating:

KeryFlex bonds securely to the nail plate, so it doesn’t irritate surrounding skin.

• Complementary and Affordable:

KeryFlex works alongside traditional antifungal therapies to promote healthy nail growth. It’s also cheaper than current oral antifungals.

Don’t let fungal nails steal your spring sunshine! If you’re struggling with discolored or damaged toenails, consult with your podiatrist to see if KeryFlex is the right solution for you.

Interested in learning more? We’re always available and happy to help! Schedule a comprehensive foot examination with Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center podiatrist Dr. Jon M. Sherman. To make your appointment, please call our office at 301-330-5666

Podiatric Medicine Brings Lasers Down To Earth

Lasers might seem like they belong in space, but they can actually be quite helpful here on the ground. At Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center, we think the therapeutic applications of lasers don’t get enough attention. With that in mind, we’ve put together a short blog post that explains just how great these high-tech systems can be from a podiatric point of view!

Laser Therapy: Fighting Fungal Toenails

• Stubborn, uncomfortable, and aesthetically unpleasant toenail fungus can recur again and again.
• We use the PinPointe laser system to penetrate the nail and exterminate fungus at the source.
• This non-invasive technique is successful, safe, and painless.
• As the first laser ever to be cleared for use by the FDA, it has a proven record of success.

Why Use Lasers?

• No drugs or side effects. Oral medications can alter liver enzymes, while topicals often take a year or more to work. Topical meds also have to be used twice a day if they’re going to have a chance at succeeding.
• They’re quick. PinPointe treatment will only take about 30 minutes.
• No recovery time or pain. The laser reaches under the nail areas without damaging the skin. You can walk in, have your treatment, and walk out on the same day. Once the fungus has been destroyed, new nail growth begins.
• Solid success rates. Many patients see perceptible improvements after just a single treatment, with clear nail growth stimulated right away.

PinPointe laser therapy is just one of many advanced medical methods we utilize at the Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center, where we’re always seeking the next innovation. In fact, we have other lasers we like to use! Different systems are employed for different purposes: We have a Remy Class IV Laser to treat issues like plantar fascitis, while Cold Laser Therapy helps with pain relief and nerve damage resulting from injuries. Lasers are a great option when you want to avoid the cost, pain, and prescription meds that go hand in hand with surgery.

A good laser can be your foot’s best friend. Come see for yourself! Dr. Jon Sherman always employs the most modern, sophisticated techniques available to offer his Gaithersburg patients top-quality podiatric care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.