An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, creating pain and irritation. This condition can be caused by wide nail plates, misshapen nails, or nails that are cut too short or unevenly. Ingrown toenails progress through stages that include mild symptoms with slight redness and tenderness, moderate symptoms with swelling and drainage, and severe symptoms marked by significant pain and infection. A podiatrist can accurately assess the stage, provide safe and effective treatment, and prevent the issue from worsening. Care may include gentle nail correction or minor procedures to remove the problematic edge. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward appropriate treatment solutions.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Center. Our doctors 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
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 Los Angeles, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot pain is common in Parkinson’s disease and can affect daily comfort and mobility. Many individuals experience dystonia that leads to toe cramping and curling, along with sore muscles and decreased flexibility that make walking more difficult. Some also develop nerve root pain that causes sharp or burning sensations in the feet. Gentle stretches, including a calf stretch, wall push offs, and ankle stretches, can improve mobility and reduce stiffness when performed regularly. A podiatrist can identify the source of pain, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and create a personalized plan to ease discomfort and improve function. If foot pain from Parkinson’s is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer relief tips, and help you to manage this condition.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Foot Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot-ankle deformities in children can interfere with proper growth and walking patterns. One example is metatarsus adductus, where the outside border of one or both feet curves inward, giving the foot a bean-like shape. This can develop from the position of the baby in the womb and may affect balance as the child begins to walk. Some children have flexible feet that straighten over time, while others develop stiffness that limits movement. A podiatrist can examine the foot’s flexibility, use imaging if needed, and monitor how the bones and joints are forming. Supportive shoes, orthotic inserts, and stretching exercises can help realign the foot and improve function. In more serious cases, casting or surgery may be required. Early evaluation helps ensure proper development and prevents long-term walking issues. If your child was born with a foot-ankle deformity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar warts often start as small, unnoticed growths on the bottom of the foot, but pressure from walking can push them inward and make them increasingly painful. These growths come from a common virus that enters through tiny breaks in the skin, leading to areas that may feel firm, tender, or appear to have dark pinpoint dots. Some form individually, while others spread into clusters that create more discomfort with every step. Trying to treat a plantar wart at home can cause irritation if the wart is deeper than expected. When pain increases, the spot grows, or multiple warts begin to form, it becomes important to get a professional opinion. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, offer safe treatment options, and help prevent recurrence. If you have a persistent or painful spot on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from The Foot Center. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
