Items filtered by date: February 2023

Newcomers to the world of podiatry might wonder whether ingrown toenails are, in fact, different from a toenail fungus. Despite their similarities and the fact that both conditions impact the toenails of the feet, they are two distinct conditions of the foot. An ingrown toenail is a condition that develops when the side of the toenail essentially grows into the skin surrounding the nail, producing redness and inflammation. Toenail fungus, however, is a fungal infection where the texture and quality of the nail itself are impaired. Individuals with toenail fungus might notice that their nail has become brittle in texture or yellow in color. If you want to learn more about the differences between these two distinct foot conditions or are seeking treatment, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM of Choice Podiatry Center. 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 Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The importance of maintaining proper foot care increases as the aging process occurs. This may be a result of walking or standing at various jobs throughout the years, in addition to possibly wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Many elderly people have difficulty looking at the soles of their feet. This is imperative to do, as it is helpful in checking for existing cuts, scrapes, and bruises. There are patients who choose to have a family member or caregiver that can help them to accomplish this. When the toenails are properly trimmed weekly, it may help to prevent painful foot conditions, such as ingrown toenails, from developing. The feet can be protected by refraining from walking barefoot, and slowly increasing physical activity which is beneficial in improving blood circulation to the feet and legs. If you are interested in learning more about how to care for elderly feet, it is advised that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM from Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Heel pain is usually felt on the underside of the heel or behind it. While rarely indicative of anything serious, heel pain can severely impact normal functioning, especially walking and exercise. Heel pain can also become chronic if ignored. One of the most common causes of heel pain is Plantar Fasciitis, a condition caused by overstretching or tearing of the plantar fascia or the band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. With this affliction, pain, stiffness, and inflammation are typically worse in the morning, upon arising, and activity is resumed. Sometimes using an over-the-counter insole and stretching exercises will be enough to counteract heel pain. However, there are other things that could cause such pain and it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM of Choice Podiatry Center. 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 Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has shown there may be benefits while exercising barefoot. This may be as a result of stimulating the pressure points in the feet, possibly providing a better workout. Conversely, when shoes are worn while exercising, the feet are often ignored, which may limit strength to the bones and muscles. Exercising while barefoot may help to improve balance, which can make it easier to complete everyday activities. Additionally, overall movement may be increased while the toes are not restricted by the top of the shoe. An effective exercise to do while barefoot is known as raising and hovering the heels. It is a stability exercise, and can help to strengthen the Achilles tendon. The muscles can become stronger when lunges are done, and the toes may become more flexible as the entire foot grips the floor. If you would like to learn about additional benefits of exercising while barefoot, please ask a podiatrist who can address any questions you may have.

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 Vivian C. Iwu, DPM from Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 doctor 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 Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.