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 edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain and potential infection. Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that compress the toes, and hereditary predispositions. Additionally, injuries or trauma to the toe can increase the likelihood of ingrown nails. Preventing this discomfort begins with adopting careful nail cutting practices, which is defined as trimming the nails straight across and avoiding rounded edges. Wearing shoes with adequate toe room and opting for breathable, moisture-wicking socks helps maintain optimal foot hygiene. Individuals with recurring ingrown toenails may benefit from consulting a podiatrist, who can provide guidance on proper foot care. If you have developed this ailment, it is strongly suggested to speak to this type of doctor who can determine what the best treatment method is for you.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. 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
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 Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
An ingrown toenail is a nail that has curved downward and grows into the skin. This typically occurs at the nail borders, or the sides of the nail. As a result, pain, redness, swelling, and warmth may occur in the toe. If a break in the skin forms due to the ingrown nail, bacteria may enter and cause an infection in the area; this is typically characterized by a foul odor and drainage.
Ingrown toenails have multiple reasons for developing. In many instances, the condition is a result of genetics and is inherited. The most common cause, however, is improper trimming; cutting the toenails too short forces the skin beside the nail to fold over. An ingrown toenail can also develop due to trauma, such as stubbing the toe, having an object fall on the toe, or participating in activities that involve repeated kicking or running. Wearing shoes that are too tight or too short can also cause ingrown toenails.
Treatment for an ingrown toenail varies between patients and the severity of the condition. Milder cases that don’t involve infection or other medical conditions can benefit from soaking the feet in room-temperature water and gently massaging the side of the nail. In most cases, however, it is best to see your podiatrist for thorough and proper treatment. After examining your toe, your podiatrist may prescribe oral antibiotics to clear the infection if one is present. Surgical removal of either a portion of the nail or the entire nail may also be considered. In some cases, complete removal or destruction of the nail root may be required. Most patients who undergo nail surgery experience minimal pain afterward and can return to normal activity the following day.
Ingrown toenails can be prevented with proper nail trimming and by avoiding improper-fitting shoes. When cutting the toenails, be sure that you are cutting in a straight line and avoid cutting them too short. Shoes should not be too short or tight in the toe box.
Diabetic wounds are a common complication of diabetes, resulting from neuropathy and vascular disease. Nerve damage diminishes foot sensation, making it challenging to detect an injury. Vascular disease impairs blood flow, which reduces the speed of healing wound. Diabetic foot ulcers are the most prevalent type of wound. They are open sores on pressure points, typically caused by neuropathy, trauma, and pressure. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent infections and potential limb loss. Diabetic neuropathic wounds stem from nerve damage, leading to a loss of protective sensation. These wounds may appear as calluses, corns, or blisters, requiring specialized care to prevent infections and further damage. Ischemic wounds arise from an inadequate blood supply, often due to peripheral artery disease, or PAD, which is exacerbated by diabetes. Characterized by poor circulation and delayed healing, ischemic wounds pose an increased risk of infection. If you are experiencing frequent or stubborn foot wounds that will not heal properly or seem infected, it is suggested that you seek the help of a podiatrist for care.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Diabetics must be wary of all wounds, regardless of depth or size. Diabetes, a chronic disease in which the body cannot properly use glucose the way it normally would, causes various complications that make wounds difficult to heal. Nerve damage or neuropathy will cause diabetics to have trouble feeling the pain of a blister or cut until the condition has significantly worsened or become infected. A diabetic’s weakened immune system can make even the most minor of wounds easily susceptible to infection. Diabetics are also more prone to developing narrow, clogged arteries, and are therefore more likely to develop wounds.
Wounds should be taken care of immediately after discovery, as even the smallest of wounds can become infected if enough bacteria build up within the wound. To remove dirt, wounds should be first rinsed under running water only. Soap, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine can irritate the injury and should be avoided. To prevent infection, apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it with a bandage. The bandage should be changed daily. The skin around the wound may be cleaned with soap.
To prevent further exacerbation, see a doctor—especially if you have diabetes. Minor skin conditions can become larger problems if not properly inspected. As the wound heals, make sure to avoid applying pressure to the affected area.
Pregnancy is a transformative journey, both physically and emotionally. While many anticipate changes in their bodies, some may not be aware of the potential foot conditions that can arise during this time. One common issue is edema, or swelling of the feet and ankles, which results from increased blood volume and the pressure on leg veins. This can cause discomfort, but it is often temporary. Another condition linked to pregnancy is flat feet. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the ligaments in the feet, leading to a decrease in arch height. This can contribute to foot pain and discomfort. Additionally, weight gain can place added stress on the feet, often causing pain and fatigue. The expanding uterus may also shift the center of gravity, altering the gait and potentially causing problems like plantar fasciitis. Pregnancy can bring about various foot challenges, but with proper care, many of these issues can be managed or prevented. If you have developed any type of foot conditions during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can monitor any foot pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The natural weight that pregnant women gain causes their center of gravity to be completely altered. This causes them to have a new weight-bearing stance which adds pressure to the knees and feet. As a result, pregnant women often experience severe foot pain. The two most common foot issues experienced by women in their pregnancies are edema and over-pronation. It is important for all pregnant women to learn more about how to take care of their feet so they are more comfortable during their pregnancy.
Over-pronation, which is commonly referred to as flat feet, is caused when a person’s arch flattens out upon weight bearing. This causes the person’s feet to roll inward while walking. Pregnant women often experience this due to the sudden weight they gain.
Edema, also referred as swelling in the feet, typically occurs in the later part of the pregnancy. It is the result of the extra blood accumulated in the pregnant woman’s body. The enlarged uterus puts more pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis which causes leg circulation to slow down. This causes blood to pool in the lower extremities.
Fortunately, there are ways to treat both edema and over-pronation. Edema can be treated by elevating the foot as often as possible. Wearing proper fitting footwear will also be helpful for those with edema. A treatment method for over-pronation could be orthotics. Orthotic inserts should be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rear foot for your foot.
It is best for pregnant women to buy new shoes during the day, because this is the time where swelling is at its peak. Pregnant women also shouldn’t rush when buying shoes. It is always advised that you make sure your shoes fit properly but this is especially important during pregnancy.
If you are a pregnant woman, you should consult with a podiatrist in order to make sure your feet are healthy throughout the entirety of your pregnancy.
Foot stress fractures, tiny cracks in the bones, can emerge from a myriad of factors that subject the feet to repetitive stress and strain. One primary cause is overuse, where excessive or sudden increases in physical activity like running or prolonged standing surpass the bones' capacity for repair. Wearing inadequate footwear or worn-out shoes lacking proper support amplifies the risk, as they fail to absorb shock adequately. Biomechanical factors, like abnormal foot structure or gait patterns, contribute to uneven weight distribution, placing specific areas under heightened stress. Insufficient conditioning and muscle fatigue diminish the ability of muscles to absorb impact, transferring excess force to the bones. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium and vitamin D, compromise bone strength, elevating the susceptibility to stress fractures. By wearing proper footwear, adopting a gradual training progression, and supplying nutritional support, individuals can fortify their foot health and reduce the likelihood of encountering the discomfort associated with stress fractures. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you the treatment option that is right for you.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Our bones are important aspects of our body and they are constantly changing. The heavier the workload for a bone, the more likely it is that calcium will be placed in it. When a bone isn’t used often, there won’t be much calcium within it. When stress from repetitive loads prevent the bone from being able to repair itself, cracks will start to form. Stress fractures are defined as cracks in a bone that result from repetitive force, such as overuse.
The most common cause of stress fractures is a sudden increase in intensity and duration of physical activity. For example, if you begin to run long distances without working your way into doing so, you will be more likely to develop a stress fracture.
Common symptoms of stress fractures are pain and swelling near the weight bearing area on the injured bone. When initial x-rays are performed, it is possible that the fracture will not show up. However, once the stress on the area continues, the damage will increase, and the fracture will be severe enough to show up on an x-ray. Certain parts of the foot are more likely to develop stress fractures than others. Areas that typically have these fractures are: the metatarsals, the navicular bone, the calcaneus, tibia, and fibula.
Since women are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, they are twice as likely as men to sustain a stress fracture. Additionally, old age causes a decrease in bone mineral density which is why elderly people are also likely to develop these fractures.
It is important for you to be professionally diagnosed by a podiatrist if you suspect you have a stress fracture, because there are other injuries that can easily be mistaken for a fracture. Sprains, strains, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and Morton’s neuroma can all easily be mistaken for stress fractures in the foot. Your podiatrist will likely ask you a series of questions to determine what type of pain you are experiencing. These questions will help your doctor identify whether you have a stress fracture.
The best method of treatment for a stress fracture is rest. Additionally, a walking boot, cast, or crutches, will help rest the area that is injured. The typical healing time for stress fractures is 4-12 weeks, however this depends on which bone is involved.
An Achilles tendon tear can be a debilitating injury, but with proper treatment, recovery is possible. The approach to treatment varies depending on the severity of the Achilles tendon tear. For partial tears, a common non-surgical option is immobilization by using a walking boot, leg brace, or splint for approximately six weeks. This restricts movement, allowing the tendon to heal correctly and prevent further damage. Using crutches may be necessary during this period to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle. Rest is an essential component of healing, along with keeping the injured leg elevated. In cases of an Achilles tendon rupture, or complete tear, surgery is likely to be necessary. Before the procedure, patients may wear a walking cast or boot to protect the injured area. During surgery, a podiatrist makes incisions down the back of the heel, reconnects the torn tendon, and stitches the wound closed. In post-surgery, patients wear a cast or splint to immobilize the tendon, with prescribed pain medication, and elevation to aid healing. If you have an Achilles tendon tear or rupture, it is suggested that you schedule an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on the proper treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor 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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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