Saturday, April 17, 2010

Thursday, April 08, 2010

Toenail fungus treatment


Although toenail fungus can be little bit difficult to treat, there are some treatment options for curing them. Fungal infections on nail are sometimes difficult to be cured you will probably have to take a treatment, sometimes for up to six months, because fungus is found under the nail and can be hard to reach. we must choose the appropriate treatment option so that we immediately get rid of toenail fungus. Here are 6 treatment options that can be selected to treat nail fungus.

1. Oral medications

In the past, Griseofulvin (Fulvicin), a toxic drug, is the only medicine that has recognized the benefits of treating nail fungus infections. Now there are other oral antifungal drugs that can cure toenail infections. These are Itraconazole (Sporanox), Fluconazole (Diflucan) and Terbinafine (Lamisil). These drug help a new nail grow healthy which is free from infections and replaces the infected area of your nail. They are usually taken from six to twelve months and you will not be able to see the results until after the toenail grows back completely.

2. Antifungal Creams and Antifungal Solutions

Antifungal creams are one of the most common toenail fungal treatments. They can be over the counter or prescription medicine which you can apply directly over the infected area of the nails. Antifungal creams are used for mild to moderate stages of toenail fungus infections and can be be combined with oral medications for a more effective cure. Recommendations include using a nail varnish or use tea tree oil that kills the fungal infection. Here at Your 2 Feet, formerly Z-CoiL of Seattle, we stock Gordochom solution and Fungasoap which is Tea Tree Oil offered without a prescription. Often oral Lamisil can be crushed in the Gordochom to make it more potent. This is a prescription you can get from Dr. Kerch. A urea cream applied under occlusion can also battle the fungus over time.

3. Vicks Vapo Rub

Vicks vapo rub has been used to be home remedy for toenail fungus. However, no scientific studies have been showed evidence to validate this claim even if there are some people who said that it is effective to cure nail fungus.

4. Antifungal Nail Polish

For mild to moderate fungal infections, Dr. Kerch or your family podiatrist might prescribe an antifungal nail polish called Ciclopirox. You paint it on your infected toenails as you would an ordinary nail polish. Do this everyday for seven days then wipe it all off and start with fresh applications. Use of Ciclopirox on a daily basis for one year has been shown to cure toenail fungal infections.

5. Surgical Nail Removal

For recurring and severe stage of toenail fungus, surgical nail removal may be the best treatment option. The infected nail is removed and an antifungal cream is used to treat the infected area. Because the area of infection is exposed, antifungal cream can kill toenail fungus more effective.

6. Laser treatment

Currently under consideration by the FDA is a laser treatment that will "resolve" the fungus. It is a this promising new treatment. However the cost is $200-$500 and is not reimbursed by insurance companies. This may be prohibitive to some. It accomplishes the same result as having the nail debrided in the office. It will recur unless the underlying problem at the base of the nail is addressed.

Whichever treatment you prefer to use, will depend on stages of toenail fungus. For beginning stages of toenail fungus, home remedy with topical creams will be okay. However, it is always best to consult your podiatrist to get an accurate diagnosis and best treatment option for toenail fungus.

If you do not already have a podiatrist you can make an appointment with Dr. Kerch.
•If your nail infection doesn’t bother you, you may wish to leave it alone. This option may lead to a spread or worsening of the nail condition.

Gordochom Topical Antifungal Found at Z-CoiL of Seattle


Gordochom Topical Antifungal
by Gordon Labs
Found at Z-CoiL of Seattle



Indications: Gordon Labs' premier topical antifungal. Cures athlete's foot (tinea pedis) and ringworm (tinea corporis).

ACTIVE Ingredient: Undecylenic Acid 25% w/v, an effective fungistatic agent.
OTHER Ingredients: Chloroxylenol (3%) and a penetrating oily base.

DESCRIPTION: A nonstaining, time-tested formula that is effective for many topical fungal conditions, containing:

Undecylenic Acid: A colorless to pale yellow liquid. It is insoluble in water and soluble in Alcohol, Chloroform and Ether.
Chloroxylenol: A topical antiseptic, germicide and antifungal agent.
PHARMACOLOGY: Undecylenic Acid is a fungistatic agent employed in the treatment of tinea pedis, ringworm and dermatophytosis. Chloroxylenol is a topical antiseptic, germicide and antifungal agent effective against a wide variety of causative fungi and yeast organisms. Among those affected by chloroxylenol are candida albicans, aspergillus niger, aspergillus flavus, trichophyton rubrum, trichophyton mentagrophytes, penicillum luteum and epidermophyton floccosum. The penetrating oil base vehicle serves as a delivery system, enhancing the impregnation of Undecylenic Acid and Chloroxylenol as antimicrobial agents.

CONTRAINDICATIONS/WARNINGS: Gordochom is contraindicated in patients who are sensitive to Undecylenic Acid or Chloroxylenol. Not for ophthalmic or optic use. Avoid inhaling and contact with eyes or other mucous membranes. Not to be applied over blistered, raw or oozing areas of skin or over deep puncture wounds. For external use only. Keep out of the reach of children. If a reaction suggesting sensitivity or chemical irritation should occur with the use of Gordochom, treatment should be discontinued. Use of Gordochom in pregnancy has not been established. This product is not effective on the scalp or nails. Adverse Reactions: No significant adverse reactions have been reported. However, attention should be paid to localized hypersensitivity.

DIRECTIONS: Cleanse and dry affected areas. Apply a thin application twice a day (morning and night) to the affected area. For toenail fungus, the need for use of this solution for an extended period of time may be necessary. For athlete's foot, pay special attention to the spaces between the toes; wear well-fitting ventilated shoes, and change shoes and socks at least once daily. For athlete's foot and ringworm, use daily for 4 weeks. If condition persists longer, consult a physician.

HOW SUPPLIED: Unbreakable 1 oz bottle with special brush applicator.


DR. Kerch's Comments: "Gordochom does not have an "Indication" for the treatment of fungus toenails and it has not been proved to be effective against fungus toenails. I have been told that the manufacturer would have a significant expense to pursue FDA testing in order to obtain this indication. It would not be worth the expense to do so. This being said, I have recommended Gordochom for the treatment of fungus toenails. Please be aware that the antifungal in Gordochom is fungistatic, meaning that it prevents the spread of fungus, but does not kill it. Therefore, since a toenail can take 9 months to a year to grow out, it may take this long to see noticeable improvement. Ironically, Gordochom is indicated for the treatment of athlete's foot, but I hardle ever use it for that. I prescribe crushing three Lamisil tablets into the solution to strengthen the effectiveness."

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

5 Ways to Combat Knee Pain and Your 2 Feet Products to Help










The knee is a very complex joint, and most of us will experience some kind of knee pain. If you pay special attention to strengthening your core muscles, watching your weight and taking care of your feet, you may be able to ease that pain. Click the title for a link to a helpful article

Your feet are your foundation. When our feet travel straight ahead, the knee joints and hip joints work properly. The problem is that most of us are like cars that are out of alignment. If the foot twists outward or inward as we walk, it pulls our knees, hips and back joints out of alignment. Getting the right shoes and the right support can go a long way toward protecting your knees.

Now You Can Truly Have The Perfect Fit. Your 2 Feet of Seattle Introduces The Somnio Running Shoe

Your 2 Feet, formerly Z-CoiL of Seattle, will be introducing Somnio, the Perfect Fit.






Finding the Perfect Fit

Beyond shoe size and pronation: How to truly customize a shoe

Somnio Running

Somnio is founded on the principle that running shoes should adapt to the individual runner and improve biomechanics. Every runner is different, and we believe that every pair of running shoes should be different, too, so building a platform can make that possible.
The Line Up Measuring Device is a patented fitting tool.
The biomechanic design is a result of a partnership with the Boulder Center for Sports Medicine. The runner stands barefoot upon the Line-Up, and you use the adjustable slides to easily determine:
which footbed fits the runner’s arch
which cushion is appropriate for their weight and running surface
which Varus Wedge inserts best align the foot and lower leg
Step 1: Line-Up Device

Standing barefoot alignment assessment:
The shoe fitter measures Arch height (Low, Normal, High)
Measuring the amount of Pronation (Neutral, Mild, Moderate, Significant) Supinators should be placed in the Runaissance model to encourage any pronation possible
Cushioning select based on body weight.
The runner does a single leg squat on the Line Up Measuring Device:
Fitter adjusts leveling of your feet on Line Up Device
Fitter finds your level of pronation to reach alignment (neutral-mild, moderate, significant pronation).
Runner places heel against heel cup in most comfortable fit, This allows the inherent tibial torsion of the lower leg (degree varies between people) to place the foot naturally vs. forcing the foot straight forward and imposing an internal rotation of the knee/femur.
Fitter lines up laser on middle of patella.
You, the runner, perform a single leg squat (1/3 knee bend) while person looks straight forward so as not to influence alignment results.
You perform a few repetitions of the squat so the fitter can assess typical running patterns.
Step 2: Adjust Varus
The fitter will adjust the Varus using our patented Line-Up device.
The fitter will adjust the balance of the Line Up Device to optimize the alignment of the laser tracking on your patella.
Step 3: Use Arch Ball

In this step we will select your ideal arch height based on:
Archometer
General visual assessment of arch height (Low, Normal, High).
Historical tolerance of arch support (this is determined during your initial questioning).
Right and left can be different.
Step 4: Select Components

We will use the Durometer Gauge, your general weight and the Varus setting to select your correct inserts.
Durometer will initially be based on body weight or injury needs and then be adjusted to accommodate for the intangible “feel” that you are seeking.
Firmer durometer in the forefoot can assist in pronation control.
Individuals that “catapult” from outer heel to excessive pronation may benefit from 45-55 durometer in the heel to slow the speed of transition.
Step 5: Shoe Trial

Place the Functionally Engineered Adaptable Tricomponent [FEAT] System into the shoe.

Shoe Trial

We will use our skills to make specific adjustments to get the best shoe fit. Then we will make any necessary adjustments based on how the shoe actually fits and feels.
Modifications:

Our first priority is addressing any alignment needs with appropriate canting changes.
We will modify the durometer of the inserts to provide a good balance between comfort/feel and injury needs.
Arch Height: This is typically a straight forward decision

How to Choose Your Insole, Arch Support, or Orthotic

Powersteps Get Seal of Acceptance





Products- Superfeet, Lynco Orthotics, Emsold, Powersteps
Everyone's feet are unique, and different activities demand different types of footwear. Taking these variables into account, it's unrealistic to expect one insole to fit every shoe and every foot. That's why you can choose from different styles (Aetrex Lyncos, Superfeet, Powersteps, and Emsold) at Your 2 Feet, formerly Z-CoiL of Seattle, to improve the fit of most of your footwear - whether you walk, run, ski, hike, snowboard, play basketball, or work all day on your feet.
Finding the right size and style is critical to your satisfaction. Foot type, footwear, and activity all play an important role in selecting the proper style and size. Because we cannot take all of these factors into consideration without an evaluation at Z-CoiL of Seattle, we highly recommend visiting us for an I-Step pressure analyses and full evaluation to ensure proper selection and fit of our products. A customized heated orthotic may be fabricated while you wait, if needed. Our in store podiatrist fabricates custom orthotics, if you do not already have a podiatrist, from a mold of your feet at affordable prices as symptoms indicate.
How to Choose Your Insole, Arch Support, or Orthotic
Everybody's feet are different, but everyone can benefit from the support and comfort provided by our top of the line choice of arch supports, insoles and customizable orthotics. Choose from a variety of models designed to fit differently-shaped feet for all types of shoes, activities and sports. Here are some tips to help you choose the right productsfor you.
What foot type are you?
Only 10-15% of the population has what is described as an 'ideal functioning foot'. This is often referred to as a neutral foot. People with a neutral foot have a well-defined shaped foot that doesn't need an orthotic for biomechanical reasons. But they can still benefit from the added shock absorption and cushioning an arch support (orthotic) provides. The 3-dimensional shape around the foot acts like an adapter to fit into the 2-dimensional shaped footwear. This intimate fit provides comfort and improves performance.

The remaining population has a tendency to either excessively pronate or supinate when they stand, walk or run. Besides affecting fit, this can result in secondary foot ailments. If you experience this type of problem, arch supports (insoles) will provide support in the key areas of your foot to help reduce foot problems.

Excessive pronation can cause a flat arch and foot elongation, resulting in plantar fasciitis, bunions, blisters, knee, hip and back pain, and shin splints, among other things. The end result is inefficient motion, which causes low strength and loss of power during toe-off.
A supinated foot can be predisposed to ankle sprains, ligament strains and tears, tendonitis, and poor shock absorption. Overall, arch supports will improve the comfort and fit of the shoe.
What type of footwear are you wearing?
Most types of athletic style footwear come with some type of removable insole. Unfortunately, the soft cushion effect dissipates quickly within the first few days, and the poor support provides little, if any, biomechanical help. Removal of this insole provides ample room to complement your new footwear with any one of our supportive arch supports.
Many types of casual and formal dress footwear have no removable insole and subsequently provide very little room for the addition of an after-market insole. In these instances our low-profile products models are ideal for this type of footwear. They can be trimmed full length, or if need be, trimmed back to a ¾ length. If your footwear is still too tight, we recommend you try one of our L500 Lynco series, Emsold or Trim Fit Superfeet products.
What type of activity are you doing?
Most activities will feel more comfortable with the right insole. If you are a runner or walker, we recommend you try one of our styles designed to provide extra shock absorption. If you are looking for support in a stop-and-start sport like soccer the Blue Superfeet is the way to go. No matter what type of foot you have, what type of footwear you are wearing, or what activity you are doing, our arch supports are the ideal product for you.

Thursday, April 01, 2010

Rocker Soles Are Rocking The Footwear Industry!


-Increase Back Muscle Strength
-Aligns Body
-Strengthens and Tones Core Muscles
-Trims and Tones the Body
-Reduces stress on Backs and Hips
-Increases Glute, Thigh and Calf Activity
-Reduces Stress on Knee Joint
-Reduces Stress on Ankkle Joints
-Stabilizes and Guides Foot Strike, Promotes Energy Return
-Stimulates the Arch, Promotes Blood Circulation

Cluffy Wedge Latest Orthotic Innovation




A New Breakthrough in treating Foot Leg and Back Pain
Excellent for Plantar Fascitis (heel pain), Morton's Neuromas, Shin Splints, Bunions, Hammertoes, Ankle, Knee, Hip and Back Pain

Your feet are your foundation. Walking is a complex interplay of 26 individual bones and 33 joints in your foot that affect motion and balance of the rest of your body. If normal foot function is disrupted, then we are forced to compensate, and pain is often the result. The pain is not limited to your feet-it can also affect our ankle, knee, hip and back joints.
Introducing the Cluffy Wedge
In the late 1990's, James Clough, DPM, a podiatrist in Great Falls, Montana, made a ground-breaking discovery. While most of us have some range of motion in our big-toe-joint, Dr. Clough observed that over 80 percent of his adult patients in pain had a big-toe-joint that "locked" when the ball of the foot came in contact with the ground prior to the propulsive, "toe-off" phase of the gait cycle. This condition, medically known as functional hallux limitus (FHL), forces our foot to compensate, usually by twisting outward to navigate around the stiffened big-toe-joint. He also discovered that a small wedge, strategically placed underneath the big toe, provided just enough elevation to "unlock" the big-toe-joint and restore the foot to normal motion.
Our Experience with the Cluffy Wedge at Z-CoiL of Seattle
The results we have seen with the Cluffy Wedge since October 2009 have been nothing short of amazing. When we place the cluffy wedge under a pair of custom or store inserts, we are seeing improved results with plantar fascitis, shin splints, Morton's neuroma pain, knee and hip pain.
Our goal is to test every customer's feet for a locking big-toe-joint and over 90% of our adult customers have this condition. In our opinion, a locking big-toe-joint is normal. It's the price we pay for walking on concrete.
The cluffy wedge has demonstrated success with triathletes, distance runners, and serious exercise enthusiasts. Runners are reporting that common running injuries, such as shin splints are going away. The athletes are reporting better times as their running performance and gait efficiency improves.
Here's What the Experts Are Saying
Dr. Douglas Richie says: " The Cluffy Wedge is the most significant breakthrough in orthotic breakthrough in the past 10 years. This simple innovation improves function in the first ray and enhances the windlass mechanism." Dr. Richie can arguably be called the father of custom made orthotic therapy.
Our in house podiatrist, Dr. Lotchie Kerch, says " There are two things I am on the look-out for after the customer has been fitted with the appropriate shoe style. I want to examine the motion of the great toe joint and check for limb length discrepancy (one leg shorter than the other). The simple solutions of inserting and adjusting a heel lift combined with the cluffy wedge solves a majority of symptoms that people come to get relief from."
More:
By wearing the Cluffy wedge you will notice a change in your gait that makes you feel better at toe-off. This happens because the Cluffy allows more motion in the great toe joint
The Cluffy test we administer in our store will determine if you are a good candidate for the wedge.