Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem seen by podiatrists, often affecting the big toe. They occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. The area may be red, swollen, or even infected, sometimes with drainage or overgrown skin. It often feels sore at first, then progresses to sharp pain, throbbing, and discomfort when walking or wearing shoes. Causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and genetics. A podiatrist can help from the start by properly diagnosing the condition and ruling out infection or other nail disorders. Treatment may begin with gentle nail care and inflammation control, then move into in-office procedures to remove the ingrown portion of the nail. Ongoing care may include prevention guidance, nail correction, or permanent solutions when needed. Early treatment helps prevent infection and ongoing pain. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe pain ranges from a mild irritation to severe discomfort that makes it difficult to put pressure on the foot. The toes contain bones, joints, and muscles, along with tendons and ligaments that support movement. Nerves and blood vessels also pass through the toes. Problems affecting any of these structures can cause pain. Symptoms can develop suddenly after an injury or appear gradually. Toe pain also occurs with burning, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation. Swelling or stiffness can make walking and other daily activities more difficult.

Many conditions can lead to toe pain. Bunions cause pain around the big-toe joint, while arthritis makes toe joints sore and stiff. Corns and calluses also create painful pressure. Other causes include an ingrown toenail, a broken toe, or a sprain. Hammertoe develops when a toe stays in a bent position and can become painful when it rubs against a shoe. Nerve problems may produce burning or numbness. Persistent pain with redness, warmth, or swelling deserves prompt attention because these signs can be linked to infection or another condition.

A podiatrist examines the toes and foot to identify the source of pain. The evaluation includes checking joint movement, skin changes, and areas of tenderness. A podiatrist also determines whether foot structure or pressure from shoes is contributing to symptoms. Treatment options depend on the cause and include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or a brace. If you have symptoms of toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle injuries are common in skateboarding as the result of quick direction changes, jumps, and sudden landings. One frequent injury is an ankle sprain, which occurs when ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear. Inversion sprains happen when the foot rolls inward, placing stress on the outer ankle ligaments, and eversion sprains occur when the foot rolls outward and strain the inner ligaments. Sprains are also classified by severity. A Grade I sprain involves mild ligament stretching, while a Grade II sprain includes partial ligament tearing. A Grade III sprain involves a complete ligament tear and significant instability. Risk factors include uneven landings, improper footwear, and previous injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability and guide recovery. If you enjoy skateboarding and have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Heel pain can make standing and walking uncomfortable, especially when symptoms continue throughout the day. Pain may begin deep in the foot, directly around the heel bone, or in the connective tissue that supports the bottom of the foot. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the strong tissue extending from the heel toward the toes. This type of heel pain is especially common in adults. Being overweight and wearing improper footwear may contribute to the problem. Discomfort is often noticeable right after getting out of bed and may return as more time is spent on the feet.

Plantar fasciitis is not the only possible source of heel pain. Problems involving the Achilles tendon, arthritis, or gout may also cause discomfort around the heel. Other causes include stress fractures or irritation of nearby nerves. Since heel pain can develop from several different problems, identifying the source is important before deciding on treatment. A medical evaluation may include questions about when the pain occurs and whether there has been recent trauma. The physician may also consider frequently worn footwear and typical activity levels to better understand what may be contributing to the symptoms.

A podiatrist can evaluate persistent heel pain and determine whether plantar fasciitis or another foot problem may be responsible. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the symptoms. Non-surgical care is often used for plantar fasciitis, while persistent cases may require further evaluation and more specialized treatment. Surgery may be considered when non-surgical treatment does not provide enough improvement. A podiatrist can help determine which treatment options are appropriate and whether additional care is necessary. Heel pain does not have to be accepted as a normal result of aging, injury, or physical activity. If persistent heel pain is making it difficult to stand or walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.