An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into or presses against the surrounding skin. The big toe is affected most frequently, although the problem can occur on other toes. Pressure from shoes that are too tight, an injury, or the natural shape of the nail contribute to an ingrown toenail. Cutting the nail too short or rounding its corners also encourages the nail edge to press into the skin. Symptoms include pain, redness, and swelling along the side of the nail. The area may become sensitive when pressure is placed on the toe. An ingrown toenail also can become infected, leading to increased swelling or drainage around the nail.

A podiatrist evaluates an ingrown toenail by examining the nail and surrounding skin. The examination determines how deeply the nail edge is pressing into the skin and whether signs of infection are present. A podiatrist identifies factors that could contribute to repeated ingrown toenails, including nail shape or pressure from shoes. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the amount of irritation around the nail. A podiatrist carefully removes the portion of the nail that is pressing into the skin. Treatment also addresses irritated or infected tissue around the affected area. For recurring problems, the podiatrist uses techniques designed to prevent the troublesome section of nail from growing back.

An ingrown toenail makes standing, walking, and wearing shoes painful. Patients can change the way they walk to avoid pressure on the affected toe, which places added stress on other parts of the foot. A podiatrist treats the painful nail while helping protect the surrounding skin from further irritation. Level of care is based on the condition of the nail and the severity of the symptoms. Prompt evaluation helps prevent increasing pain and related complications. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis 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 Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. 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 offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe. It can happen after a direct injury, such as stubbing your toe against furniture or dropping something heavy on your foot. A toe fracture can also develop from repetitive stress that gradually cracks the bone. Symptoms may include severe pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Some fractures cause the toe to look crooked or change shape. Even when the injury seems minor, a broken toe should be evaluated because untreated fractures can heal improperly and affect normal movement.

Several factors can increase the risk of a broken toe. Athletes may be more vulnerable because running and jumping place repeated stress on the feet. People with weak bones may also have a higher fracture risk. Repetitive stress fractures can occur when activity increases too quickly or the foot does not have enough time to recover. Recognizing these risks can help you respond sooner when toe pain develops.

A podiatrist will begin by examining the injured toe and asking how the injury occurred. An X-ray may be used to confirm a fracture and determine its location. A stable fracture may be treated with buddy taping, supportive footwear, and reduced activity. A more serious fracture may require realignment or additional treatment. A podiatrist will monitor healing and provide guidance about protecting the toe while the bone repairs itself. Following these recommendations can reduce complications and support a safe return to normal activity.

Do not ignore severe toe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury. Prompt care can help identify the problem and prevent improper healing. If repetitive stress is causing discomfort, early evaluation may also help prevent a small crack from becoming a larger fracture. If you have broken a toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps the foot push off the ground when walking, running, or jumping. An injury can range from irritation caused by repeated strain to a partial or complete tear. Symptoms include pain near the back of the heel, swelling, and stiffness. An Achilles tendon tear can cause a popping sensation and weakness. Some patients feel as though they were kicked in the calf. They may have trouble bearing weight, pushing off the injured foot, or standing on their toes.

Achilles tendon injuries can occur when the tendon is placed under sudden or repeated stress. Running, jumping, and quickly changing direction can raise the risk. A missed step or fall can also cause a tear. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, a previous Achilles tendon injury, and a sudden increase in activity. Pain that appears gradually can signal inflammation or minor tendon damage. Sudden pain with a pop, loss of strength, or difficulty walking can point to a more serious tear and requires immediate help.

A podiatrist typically asks how the injury happened and examines the back of the ankle for pain, swelling, and weakness. The examination also checks ankle movement and the tendon’s ability to support a push-off motion. Ultrasound or MRI imaging may be ordered to confirm whether the tendon is irritated, partly torn, or completely torn. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the damage. A podiatrist can protect the tendon with a cast, brace, or walking boot while it heals. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and guide a safe return to activity. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors 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

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

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:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that can cause sudden, intense pain in the big toe joint. It develops when uric acid levels become too high and crystals form inside the joint. Gout often affects the big toe because this joint can be vulnerable to pressure. An attack may begin suddenly, sometimes during the night, and become extremely uncomfortable. Understanding gout symptoms and causes can help you recognize the condition, and seek relief.

A gout attack causes pain, swelling, and tenderness in the big toe. Even pressure from a shoe or bedsheet may feel uncomfortable. Walking can become difficult because placing weight on the affected foot may increase pain. High uric acid levels are the main cause of gout. The body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines. When uric acid builds up, crystals can collect around joints and trigger inflammation and stiffness.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing gout. Diets high in purine-rich foods may contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Obesity can increase risk and may affect how the body processes uric acid. Family history, kidney problems, and other health factors can play a role. Dehydration and excessive alcohol intake may contribute to attacks in people. Recognizing these risk factors can help you discuss prevention and daily choices with a podiatrist. 

A podiatrist can evaluate the foot, review symptoms, and accurately diagnose gout. Treatment can include measures to reduce pain and swelling, along with recommendations for preventing episodes. A podiatrist may discuss footwear, activity changes, and when follow-up is needed for ongoing management. Managing contributing factors can help protect mobility and comfort. If you have gout symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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