October 2025

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing discomfort and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or narrow shoes, injury, or hereditary factors. Symptoms often include pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness along the side of the toenail. In more severe cases, there may be drainage or signs of infection, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. Visually, the affected area may appear swollen and inflamed, with skin that is red and irritated. A podiatrist can diagnose ingrown toenails through a physical examination and patient history. Treatment options range from conservative care such as soaking, proper nail trimming techniques, and footwear advice, to minor surgical procedures that remove part of the nail to relieve pressure. Early intervention can prevent complications and relieve pain. For a proper diagnosis and effective treatment, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. 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 are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

For individuals with arthritis in the feet or ankles, wearing the right footwear can make a remarkable difference in comfort and mobility. Supportive shoes help reduce pressure on painful joints, improve alignment, and provide stability during walking or standing. Custom orthotics can further cushion the foot, evenly distribute weight, and ease strain on inflamed areas. Choosing shoes with a wide toe box, firm heel support, and flexible soles promotes better balance and movement while minimizing fatigue. In some cases, rocker-bottom soles or extra-depth designs can help improve motion and reduce stiffness. Working with a podiatrist ensures footwear is properly fitted and matched to each person’s unique needs and activity level. With the right support, individuals with arthritic feet or ankles can move more comfortably and maintain an active, independent lifestyle. For individualized advice on footwear to ease arthritis pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can create challenges for foot health, often turning small problems into bigger concerns, if they are not noticed early. Reduced circulation and nerve damage can make it harder to feel pain from cuts, blisters, or pressure spots, and slower healing increases the chance of infection. What may seem minor at first can develop into ulcers or other complications that interfere with mobility and comfort. Some people may experience tingling, numbness, or burning in their feet, which makes it more difficult to detect injuries. That is why checking your feet every day, wearing supportive shoes, and keeping blood sugar well managed are important steps to protect your health. With early attention and proper treatment, many serious problems can be avoided. If you live with diabetes and want to safeguard your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Running places significant strain on the feet and ankles, as each stride transfers force through them hundreds of times per mile. Pain from running may develop from common issues like ankle sprains, tendon problems, stress fractures, or irritation of nerves and ligaments. Overuse, poor biomechanics, or returning to running too soon after a previous injury often increase the risk. Conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, or posterior tibial tendonitis can cause ongoing discomfort, if not addressed properly. Even footwear that lacks adequate support, such as worn out running shoes or flip-flops, can increase stress on the foot and ankle and lead to recurring pain. A podiatrist can perform a thorough exam and order imaging tests if necessary to diagnose the problem. Treatment options include orthotics, immobilization, or surgery, for more serious injuries. If you are suffering from foot and ankle pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment solutions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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.