An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the skin along the side of the toe, often causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. When an ingrown toenail does not improve or worsens, a podiatrist may recommend a medical procedure. One common option is a partial nail avulsion, which involves numbing the toe with a local anesthetic and then removing only the part of the nail that is growing into the skin. This reduces pressure and allows the toe to heal. If ingrown toenails keep coming back on the same toe, a matrixectomy may be performed during the same visit. This procedure removes or destroys the nail root, called the matrix, so that part of the nail will not grow back. This procedure can be done using a chemical, heat from an electric device, or a surgical instrument. If there is an infection, a podiatrist may also prescribe oral antibiotics to kill the bacteria. If you have a problematic ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and safe 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 ABC 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 Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falling can cause significant injuries to the feet, including sprains, fractures, and bruising. Impact from a fall may weaken the muscles and joints, leading to instability and discomfort. Strengthening the feet can help prevent falls by improving balance and stability. Using a resistance band to perform foot exercises enhances flexibility and strengthens the muscles that support the arches. Picking up marbles with the toes helps improve dexterity and grip strength, making the feet more responsive to changes in terrain. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises increase foot control, reducing the risk of missteps. Wearing supportive footwear and maintaining strong, flexible feet contribute to better stability. If you have fallen and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Toe joint pain often results from gout, hammertoe, or arthritis. Gout is a form of arthritis that typically affects the big toe joint, causing sudden, intense pain, redness, and swelling. Hammertoe usually occurs in one or more of the smaller toes, as it bends unnaturally, creating discomfort, stiffness, and potential pain in the joint. Other causes of toe joint pain include overuse, trauma, or misalignment. Symptoms often include swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area, along with difficulty walking or putting pressure on the toe. The pain can be sharp or throbbing, and may worsen at night or after certain activities. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the underlying cause of the toe pain and recommending medication, targeted exercises, custom orthotics, or even surgery, in severe cases. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Total contact casts are extremely effective for managing diabetic foot ulcers, particularly those caused by neuropathy. These casts distribute pressure evenly across the foot and ankle, to reduce stress on the ulcerated area and promote healing. By immobilizing the foot, a total contact cast also limits excessive movement, which can further aggravate wounds. Total contact casts ensure consistent pressure relief since patients cannot remove them, leading to higher healing rates. These casts are particularly beneficial for non-infected ulcers where circulation remains adequate. While total contact casts offer significant advantages, they require careful monitoring to prevent complications like skin irritation or new pressure points. A podiatrist can assess whether a total contact cast is appropriate based on wound severity, circulation, and overall foot health. Regular evaluations are needed to ensure proper healing and adjust the cast. If you are experiencing foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if a total contact cast is right for you.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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