An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often resulting in pain, redness, and swelling. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can worsen if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail by examining the affected area and evaluating any signs of infection, such as pus, warmth, or foul odor. If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed. In moderate to severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove a portion of the nail, a procedure known as a partial nail avulsion. Additional options like splinting or bracing may be used to help the nail grow in the correct direction. People with diabetes or poor circulation are at a higher risk for complications and should seek prompt medical care. If you have an ingrown toenail that is causing pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Bacterial infections
Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that typically affects the joints in the feet, especially the big toe. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints. Gout can result from genetics, diet, especially foods high in purines like red meat and seafood, obesity, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms often appear suddenly and may include intense joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, especially at night. Many describe the pain as sharp, throbbing, or crushing, making walking or even the touch of a bedsheet unbearable. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through examination and imaging, and may recommend lifestyle changes, medications to lower uric acid levels, or anti-inflammatory treatments. In some cases, custom orthotics or joint care strategies may also help relieve pressure and prevent future flare-ups. If you have painful gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Running and walking shoes may appear similar, but they are designed with distinct features to support different types of movement. Running shoes typically offer more cushioning to absorb the higher impact forces generated with each stride. They often have a higher heel height and a noticeable heel flare to provide stability during forward motion and shock absorption during heel strike. Walking shoes have less cushioning and a lower heel profile, as walking produces less impact. They also offer more flexibility through the forefoot to support the natural rolling motion of the foot. Using the correct shoe for each activity helps reduce the risk of discomfort and injury. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes for walking or running, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
