Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail, most commonly on the big toe, grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This common foot issue can be caused by improper nail trimming, like cutting the nails too short or not straight across. Tight-fitting shoes that press the nail into the toe skin, injury to the toenail, or genetics that predispose someone to curved nails can also contribute to ingrown toenail development. Ingrown toenails can be a cause for concern, especially if they happen frequently or lead to severe pain and infection. If not properly treated, the infection can spread and pose serious health risks, particularly for people with diabetes or poor circulation. Early treatment and certain preventive measures, like proper nail care and wearing appropriately fitting shoes, can help avoid complications. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for professional treatment and prevention of further issues.

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 our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage to the peripheral nerves, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness, often starting in the feet and hands. This condition can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, infections, injuries, and certain medications. Individuals with diabetes are particularly susceptible to neuropathy due to prolonged high blood sugar levels damaging nerves over time. Neuropathy affects people of all ages, though it is more common in older adults. Treatment aims to manage symptoms and address underlying causes. This may include medications to relieve pain and discomfort, and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. If you suffer from peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you by providing guidance and foot care tailored to your individual needs.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

A hammertoe is a foot deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Symptoms can include pain, discomfort, corns, calluses, and difficulty wearing shoes. Common causes include wearing tight shoes, muscle imbalance, arthritis, and genetic predisposition. Diagnosis involves physical examination and sometimes imaging tests like X-rays. Treatment options for hammertoe depend on the severity and may include wearing roomier shoes and custom-made orthotic devices, performing exercises to stretch and strengthen toe muscles, and in severe cases, undergoing surgery to correct the toe's alignment. Living with hammertoe requires wearing proper footwear, avoiding high heels and narrow shoes, and doing regular foot inspections. Adapting lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly, can also help to alleviate symptoms and prevent the worsening of the condition. If you have a hammertoe and it is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective management options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection of the foot caused by dermatophytes. This infection thrives in warm, moist environments and is often the result of coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, like locker room floors. Symptoms include scaling, peeling skin, and redness between the toes. Other symptoms of athlete’s foot are blistering and itching. If left untreated, athlete's foot can lead to secondary bacterial infections or allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a compromised immune system or diabetes. Prevention involves maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing breathable footwear, and avoiding sharing personal items, like shoes or towels. If you suspect you have athlete's foot or experience severe symptoms like excessive redness, swelling, or pus, it's essential to seek prompt medical attention from a podiatrist. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend an advanced treatment plan to alleviate complications. For help in dealing with a stubborn athlete’s foot infection, It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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