Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Ingrown toenails occur when the nails grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and possible infection. While mild cases of ingrown toenails can sometimes improve on their own, more severe or persistent cases often require medical care. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and offer specific treatment options. In advanced cases, minor surgical procedures, such as partial or total nail removal, may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence. Ingrown toenails that become infected may also be treated with antibiotics, if needed. Early intervention can reduce the likelihood of such complications, especially for patients with diabetes or circulation issues. Regular care from a podiatrist, such as learning how to correctly trim nails and wearing shoes that fit properly, can also help. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
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 Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. 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
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 O'Fallon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Maintaining strong and balanced feet is essential for overall stability and mobility. One effective exercise is toe raises, which involves lifting your heels off the ground while standing on your toes to strengthen the calf muscles and improve balance. Another beneficial exercise is the toe and heel walk, where you walk on your toes for a few steps and then switch to walking on your heels. This helps enhance both strength and coordination. Foot doming is also useful. While sitting, try to create an arch in your foot by lifting the middle of the foot and keeping your toes and heel on the ground. Lastly, resistance band exercises like pulling the band with your toes while seated, can strengthen the foot’s intrinsic muscles. If you have sustained an injury due to weak foot muscles, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer the correct treatment options.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in O'Fallon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Finding the right shoes is vital for managing arthritis that affects the feet. Arthritis, which is an inflammation of the joints, can lead to significant pain and difficulty in walking, especially when it involves the ankle, midfoot, or big toe. It is important to avoid high heels or tight flats, as these can increase discomfort by putting excessive pressure on your feet and misaligning your joints. Instead, look for shoes with a low, thick heel, a wide toe box, and rubber soles that provide cushioning and stability. These features help maintain a natural foot position, reduce pressure on painful joints, and offer the necessary support. Stability shoes, with their cushioned midsole, can also be helpful, particularly for those with arthritis in the foot or ankle. Consulting a podiatrist can ensure you select the best footwear to relieve your arthritis symptoms. If you have arthritis and footwear is a problem, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. 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
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 O'Fallon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.