November 2022

An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into the skin surrounding it. Oftentimes this happens from cutting toenails too short and tapering nail edges. Ingrown toenails can also occur from wearing shoes or socks that are too tight or short or from a trauma, such as stubbing the toe. It can look bad and feel painful. It can also turn into an infection. The correct way of trimming toenails is to cut them straight across with no curvature. If you have cut the nails properly, you should be able to get a fingernail under the sides and end of the nail. If you have an ingrown toenail, you can try soaking the toe in warm water with Epsom salts, which may help soften the skin surrounding the toenail and reduce inflammation and pain. Consider wearing sandals or shoes with a lot of room in the toe box until the nail has healed. If the toenail looks infected or if it is not healing well, see a podiatrist who can suggest further treatments. 

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 Ankle & Foot Care Center. 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 Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Although some people might not know about the severity of falls among senior citizens, this is a serious issue that affects a large portion of elderly Americans. A staggering number of elderly citizens are hospitalized annually because of an injury from falling —approximately 3 million. With this in mind, the concern of falling has become a public health issue among this older population. It is critical to note that preventing falls is a chief way in which a senior can protect their health, and one way they might go about doing this is by strengthening their feet. When a seniors’ feet are weak, they can become more susceptible to suffering from a fall of some sort. By strengthening the muscles in the feet, a senior can help guard against falls that could be potentially damaging and even deadly. If you are a senior citizen, it is a good idea to contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A stress fracture of the foot develops gradually, and the most common reason is from overuse. Each foot has 26 bones, and they endure the body’s weight. People who frequently run or participate in jumping activities may be prone to developing a stress fracture. It is considered to be a hairline fracture, and occurs at a weak point in the foot structure. Additional reasons why people may get stress fractures can consist of increasing speed and distance too quickly, or possibly from running on uneven surfaces. It is important to practice stretching techniques before running, and cooling down properly is essential. An X-ray is often taken which can provide a proper diagnosis. This is helpful in determining the severity of the fracture and is followed by treatment. Many patients use crutches to keep the weight off of the affected foot, which may help to accelerate the healing process. This can take up to eight weeks. If you are active in a particular sport and feel you may have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Babies are cute, and their tiny feet are no exception. While toddlers' shoes are adorable, research has shown that children’s feet will benefit more by walking barefoot as often as possible. This can help the toes to become stronger, as they grip the floor or soft ground while outside. Walking in various areas, including grass and sand, can help to strengthen the entire foot and may help to aid in balancing on different types of surfaces. When it is time to purchase their first pair of shoes, it is helpful if they are made of lightweight materials that are soft and flexible. This type of shoe may help to protect the foot’s soft cartridge until the bones begin to develop. Eventually, they can graduate to a more durable shoe, as they are walking and running faster. If you would like additional information about the importance of choosing the right shoes for your baby and toddler, please confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people who experience an Achilles tendon tear are often in severe pain. This type of injury can fall into two categories, consisting of a partial or complete rupture, and can also be known as a tear. Middle-aged people who infrequently participate in sporting activities may be prone to getting an Achilles tendon injury, which may happen from accelerating speed and intensity too quickly. The Achilles tendon is found in the calf, and its function is to connect the calf muscles to the heel. Common symptoms that are associated with this type of injury include a sharp and sudden pain in the calf or heel, and it may be followed by an inability to walk. If the tendon is torn, surgery may be necessary for a permanent repair. A partial tear may be helped by performing specific stretches which may promote healing. If there are previous tears, the likelihood of getting another Achilles tendon injury may increase, and it is suggested that precautionary measures be taken. Patients who have this type of injury are urged to seek counsel from a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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