Ingrown toenails are typically classified based on severity and depth of nail penetration into the surrounding skin. A mild ingrown toenail involves redness, swelling, and slight tenderness where the nail edge presses against the skin. A moderate ingrown toenail may cause increased pain, drainage, and signs of infection as the nail begins to pierce the skin. A severe ingrown toenail often includes significant inflammation, pus, overgrowth of tissue, and difficulty walking due to intense discomfort. Chronic cases may result in repeated infections or thickened skin. Each stage may require a different approach to care, from at-home soaking and nail trimming to professional treatment such as partial nail removal. If you are experiencing persistent or painful symptoms, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications and restore comfort.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor 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.
Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.
Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.
Heel pad syndrome, also known as fat pad atrophy, occurs when the thick layer of fatty tissue beneath the heel thins out, reducing its ability to absorb shock. This can lead to deep, aching heel pain that worsens with prolonged standing or walking. Common causes of heel pad syndrome include age-related degeneration, obesity, repetitive impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and prior heel injuries. People who walk barefoot on hard surfaces may place additional stress on the heel, increasing the risk of pain. A podiatrist can evaluate heel pad function and recommend appropriate treatment to relieve pressure on the heel. Supportive orthotics and well-cushioned footwear can help reduce discomfort during daily activities. In addition, specific exercises, such as calf stretches, heel raises, and ankle range-of-motion movements, are often used to improve foot control and reduce stress on the heel. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and proper treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Selecting the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Traditional running shoes are designed for roads and tracks, while trail running shoes offer grip and protection on uneven terrain. Shoe selection should be based on gait and arch type. Neutral running shoes work well for those with a balanced gait, while stability shoes support mild overpronation. Motion control shoes are best for significant overpronation. Carbon plated shoes are designed for speed and efficiency in advanced runners. A podiatrist can assess foot structure and gait mechanics to guide proper shoe choice. If you are unsure which running shoes are right for you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice and personalized recommendations.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Peter Siroka, DPM from Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
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.
