Ingrown toenail infections occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, allowing bacteria or fungi to enter and cause infection. This condition is often caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, injury, or poor foot hygiene. Symptoms include redness, pain, warmth surrounding the nail, and sometimes pus or drainage indicating infection. The affected toe may look swollen and inflamed, and the pain can make walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. If left untreated, the infection can worsen and lead to more serious complications. A podiatrist can diagnose ingrown toenail infections through a physical examination and assess the severity of the condition. Treatment may include antibiotics, proper nail care, or minor surgical procedures to remove the infected portion of the nail. To prevent worsening pain and complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an expert evaluation 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 East Ocean Podiatry . 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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Although the term “bunionette” may sound like something small and cute, it actually refers to a foot deformity. Indeed, a bunionette is a small bunion. While most bunions occur on the outer edges of big toes, bunionettes develop on the outside of the pinky toes. Bunionettes can cause pain and difficulty finding comfortable shoes that don’t rub against the bumps. Left untreated, bunionettes can also progressively worsen. In mild, asymptomatic cases, wearing wider, more comfortable shoes can prevent the condition from getting worse. In more severe cases, surgery can be used to correct the deformity. If you have a troublesome bunionette, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Stretching is essential for runners to prevent injuries, improve flexibility, and support muscle recovery. The knee hug stretch loosens hip and glute muscles by pulling one knee toward the chest while standing. The child’s pose relaxes the back and hips by kneeling and reaching arms forward on the ground. A simple toe touch stretches hamstrings and calves by bending forward to touch your toes. These stretches improve circulation, reduce tension, and enhance running performance. A podiatrist can assess gait, provide injury prevention tips, and recommend orthotics for proper support. If you have developed foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional running injury prevention tips. 

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 East Ocean Podiatry . 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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Metatarsalgia causes pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often described as a burning, aching, or a sharp sensation beneath the toes. It may feel like standing on a pebble or sharp object, especially during walking or running. Causes include high-impact activities, improper footwear, excess weight, or wearing high heels. Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest, and the area may appear slightly swollen or red. A podiatrist can diagnose metatarsalgia through a physical examination, gait analysis, and imaging tests, such as X-rays. Treatment options include custom orthotics, footwear changes, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching exercises. In more persistent cases, additional procedures may be recommended. Addressing the condition early can prevent further complications and improve mobility. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . 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)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

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 office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.