An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. This often affects the big toe and may result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or toe injuries. People with naturally curved nails are more likely to experience ingrown toenails. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can worsen, potentially leading to an infection that increases pain and interferes with daily activities. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and determine the most effective treatment. In some cases, the podiatrist may trim the ingrown portion of the nail, while more severe cases may require surgery to remove part of the nail and prevent regrowth in that area. Wearing shoes that fit properly and trimming toenails straight across can help reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have developed an ingrown toenail that shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Inc.. 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 offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Toenails change over time, just like the rest of the body. As people age, nails tend to grow more slowly, becoming thicker, harder, and more brittle. Many notice a yellowish or dull appearance, making them harder to trim. Years of pressure from shoes, minor injuries, or underlying conditions like poor circulation and arthritis can cause nails to become misshapen or develop ridges. Fungal infections are more common in older adults, leading to discolored, crumbly nails that may lift from the nail bed. Some people may experience dry, splitting nails due to decreased moisture retention. Thickened nails can press against shoes, causing discomfort or even pain. Regular foot care is essential. Keeping nails trimmed, moisturizing, and wearing well-fitted shoes can help. If your toenails become too thick, painful, or infected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide proper care to keep feet healthy.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup in the joints, can be influenced by temperature and humidity. Cold temperatures may trigger gout attacks by causing uric acid to crystallize in the joints, leading to sudden pain and inflammation. High humidity can contribute to dehydration, which reduces the body’s ability to flush out uric acid, increasing the risk of flare-ups. Managing gout involves staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding triggers like alcohol and purine-rich foods. Wearing warm socks in cold weather and staying cool in hot, humid conditions can help prevent attacks. A podiatrist can help by recommending footwear and insulation strategies to protect joints from cold exposure. They may also provide guidance on proper hydration and lifestyle adjustments to minimize the impact of humidity. If gout affects your mobility or causes frequent flare-ups, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you improve your comfort and overall foot health.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Inc.. 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 offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled lump that often forms near tendons or joints in the foot, ankle, or toes. Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, but they can cause discomfort, pain, or restricted movement depending on their size and location. The exact cause of a ganglion cyst is not always clear but may be linked to repetitive stress, injuries, or irritation of joints and tendons. Symptoms include a visible lump, and pain when applying pressure, tingling, or numbness if the cyst presses on nearby nerves. Diagnosis by a podiatrist usually involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests to rule out other conditions, like bone spurs or plantar warts. Treatment varies based on severity. Some cases may not need intervention, while others that cause significant pain or affect mobility might require aspiration or surgical removal. Aspiration involves draining the fluid, while surgery removes the cyst and its connection to the joint. If you have a ganglion cyst on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Inc.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beachwood, Mayfield Heights, Mentor, and Tallmadge, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
