Treating Ingrown Toenails Without Surgery
Ingrown toenails are classified as the growth of the nails into the sides of the skin, resulting in symptoms of pain and irritation. Typically, surgery is considered as an option in helping to correct ingrown toenails, but the following at-home DIY procedure can help. The first step involves soaking your feet in warm water with baking soda and salt. Use a cotton ball soaked in raw honey and a garlic clove to apply space between the end of the nail and skin. The mixture has antiseptic properties and will help with the separation of the ingrown toenail. Do this for at least 15 days, then gradually work toward separating the toenail from the skin.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Sayville Foot Care. 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
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ingrown Toenail Care
An ingrown toenail is a toenail that grows sideways into the nail bed, causing pain and swelling. Ingrown toenails can worsen and cause drainage, turning into a serious infection.
Several factors affect whether a person is at risk from an ingrown toenail. The many causes include being overweight, diabetes, participating in sports, having a fungal infection of the toe, and cutting your nails too short. Ingrown toenails also have a genetic predisposition, causing some people to be more prone to receive the condition than others. Other causes include improperly fitting shoes and shoes that keep the feet damp.
Ingrown toenails can be preventable with certain measures. For starters, allowing your toe nails to grow slightly longer in length will help prevent them from becoming ingrown. If you have already developed an ingrown toenail, soak the affected toe in warm water. This will alleviate the pain and help prevent an infection from forming. Antibiotic soap or Epsom salts may be added to further help the relieving process and avoid infection. Placing cotton beneath the affected area is also suggested, as this may help the toenail grow upwards and not into the nail bed. Swelling and redness can be reduced by resting with your feet elevated.
A podiatrist should be seen if the pain becomes so serious that it prevents you from doing your everyday activities. If a red streak running up your leg appears or if you suspect your infection has spread, contact a podiatrist immediately. Fast treatments can be undertaken to lessen your pain and have you walking comfortably.
An ingrown toenail can be easily treated with a Band-Aid. Simply wrap the affected toe with a Band-Aid to prevent infection and keep the nail from growing out at a painful angle.
In more serious cases, your podiatrist may decide to make a small incision to remove a portion of your toenail. To prevent the nail from growing back, medication will be placed directly into the nail bed. This procedure would be performed under local anesthesia and is a faster method to alleviate discomfort from an ingrown toenail. Post-procedure directions will have you stay off the affected foot for a day. Afterwards, normal activities can be resumed.
Sever’s Disease and Your Child
Sever’s disease is a common injury among children, especially during the growth spurts of early puberty. A painful disorder, Sever’s disease is caused when the heel bone outgrows the tendons and muscles; this causes them to become strained. This in turn puts pressure on the growth plate in the heel, which causes swelling and pain. Stress from physical activities can also cause injury. Symptoms of Sever’s disease include swelling, redness, discomfort, pain, and difficulty walking. Podiatrists can diagnose Sever’s disease based on symptoms, examination of the heel, or by squeezing the heel. To treat it, podiatrists will prescribe rest, anti-inflammatory and pain medication, and a foot exercise regimen to strengthen the foot. In some cases, a cast may be necessary to immobilize the foot. Fortunately, Sever’s disease heals quickly. Just be sure to bring your child to a podiatrist if they report pain or swelling in their foot.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Preventing Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis has b
een found to be the most common form of chronic foot pain beneath the heel in adults. The condition itself is described as pain in the heel accompanied by stiffness and inflammation throughout the area. It often occurs when there is a sudden change in a person’s level of physical activity. A common sign of plantar fasciitis is when an individual notices an intense heel pain after a period of inactivity or prolonged standing. It is estimated that about 1 in 10 people will develop the condition in their lifetime.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What is Sesamoiditis?
Sesamoiditis is a condition that involves inflammation of the sesamoid bones in the feet. People who partake in physical activities that put stress on the toe-end of the foot are at a higher risk of developing sesamoiditis. The condition may also be caused by wearing improper footwear like high heels. The primary symptoms of sesamoiditis are pain and inflammation in the feet, and there usually aren’t any visual signs of the condition. Physical therapy is usually the first step in the route to treating sesamoiditis, and it is important that the patient does not put their feet under a lot of stress during the process.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition that affects the joint that is just behind the big toe in the area known as the ball of the foot. It is most common in younger people and people who have just begun an exercise program. Since the sesamoid bones are like a pulley controlling the big toe, they can rub against each other and cause a gradual onset of pain. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. If ignored, sesamoiditis can lead to other, more serious problems such as severe irritation and fractures of the bones.
The cause of sesamoiditis is sudden increase in activity. The ball of your foot acts as a springboard to help you lift off when you are jogging or running. Sudden increase in the use of these bones or the tendon that controls them can cause irritation. The tendon then begins to develop inflammation and the joint begins to swell. People with smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch are typically more susceptible to this condition.
Sesamoiditis is fairly simple to diagnose since the symptoms have a gradual onset rather than a sudden impact. The symptoms begin with slight irritation around the joint shortly after the increase in activity. The discomfort eventually turns to pain with light swelling and possibly redness. Although redness or bruising are rare, this may be a symptom. After each session of exercising, the aggravated joint becomes more irritated and increases into a very intense throbbing.
Treatment for sesamoiditis can vary depending on the severity of the situation. However, treatment is almost always approached in a noninvasive way. For a case that is just beginning the doctor may recommend a very strict rest period that will limit the activity allowed on the joint. If you must be active, a recommendation for as modified shoe or insole, along with bandaging and immobilizing the big toe will be made to ensure that pressure is not placed on the joint. For severe cases, it is typically recommended that the joint and the big toe be completely immobilized to allow adequate time to heal. Ice and an over the counter anti-inflammatory may can help with the pain and discomfort while you are at rest.
When you return to your regular exercise activities, it is recommended that you use an insole that will allow even distribution of impact to your entire foot, rather than just the balls of your foot. This will prevent further aggravation of the injury.
Tips for Dealing with Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that can spread to the toenails and hands. The condition itself may be hard to cure, and it can be caught by direct contact with someone who has it or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with it. The fungus has been found to thrive in damp environments such as showers, locker room floors, and around swimming pools. If you want to avoid getting athlete’s foot, you should wash your feet with soap and water and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. You also should avoid sharing your socks with other people since this can help spread the fungus. Lastly, be sure to change your socks when your feet get sweaty, and wear shoes that are made from a breathable material.
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 one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. 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 Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Flip-Flops Are a Bad Long-Term Shoe Option
Although flip-flops are a popular shoe to wear in the summer, they are not the best option for our feet. These shoes offer minimal protection and support, which can lead to injury. Furthermore, the materials that flip-flops are commonly made of, such as rubber and plastic, are known for being prone to harbor bacteria. Keep in mind that flip-flops can be worn but only for short periods of time. They should only be worn around the pool or cottage, but not for long-distance walking or running. If you are worried about attracting bacteria, make sure you are keeping your feet clean and dry.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Your Heel Pain May Be Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is one of the most common foot ailments that people are forced to deal with. There are many possible causes for the pain, but the most common one is plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a condition that is caused when the band of tissue that stretches from the heel to the metatarsal heads becomes inflamed. In order to treat the condition, non-surgical methods are often used first. Some of these treatments include stretching exercises, orthotics, splints, and injection therapy. While most people who have heel pain are suffering from plantar fasciitis, a few other sources of the pain could be achilles tendonitis, nerve pain, and bursitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Signs That You May Have Toenail Fungus
People who have toenail fungus often try to conceal the fact by covering it with nail polish, or by using at-home remedies. However, it is always best to consult with a podiatrist prior to doing either of these. According to Shari Lipner, “Nail fungus is the most common nail disorder .... not every nail problem is caused by fungus, and there are several other conditions that may look similar, including nail psoriasis and nail trauma.” It is crucial that you make sure what you have is what you think it is, so that you are not looking for solutions to a problem you do not have. If you have nail trauma and are treating it as if you have a toenail fungus, it is possible that you could worsen your condition.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
