Ingrown Toenails and When to Seek Care

Ingrown toenails are a common nail disorder in which the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting young people. In the early stage, inflammation may cause swelling and pain around the nail. As the condition progresses, increased inflammation can lead to more intense pain, a non-healing wound, and oozing. In advanced cases, all of these symptoms may be present along with abscess formation and infection. Risk factors can include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, injury, and genetics. Without proper care, the condition can worsen and become more difficult to treat. A podiatrist can help by relieving pressure, treating infection, and guiding proper nail care. If you or your child has symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

When Feet and Ankles Begin to Swell

Swelling of the feet, also known as edema, can develop gradually or suddenly and may affect one or both feet. The skin may appear stretched, shiny, or puffy, and pressing on the area can leave a temporary indentation. Some people notice tightness, discomfort, or a heavy sensation that worsens throughout the day, especially after long periods of standing or sitting. Common causes include fluid retention, injury, poor circulation, certain medication, or underlying conditions like heart, kidney, or vein issues. Heat and prolonged inactivity can also contribute to swelling. A podiatrist can evaluate the pattern and severity of swelling and may recommend further testing if a systemic cause is suspected. Treatment often includes supportive footwear, compression, elevation, and targeted exercises to improve circulation. Early evaluation helps identify the cause and prevent complications. If you have persistent swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Read more about Swelling of the Feet

Morton’s Neuroma and Forefoot Pain

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving thickened tissue around a nerve in the forefoot, often between the third and fourth toes. It is commonly seen in individuals who exercise frequently, especially with activities that involve repetitive pressure on the ball of the foot. Risk factors include tight footwear, high-impact movement, and foot structure imbalances. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the sensation of standing on a small object. Without treatment, discomfort may worsen over time. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend footwear changes, and offer custom orthotics or advanced care. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Read more about Morton's Neuroma

Heel Pain With the First Step

Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. This band, called the plantar fascia, supports the arch and absorbs stress during walking. When it becomes strained, small tears and inflammation can develop. Many patients notice a sharp pain in the heel with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The discomfort may improve slightly with movement but often returns after long periods of standing, walking, or exercise. The heel may feel tender to the touch and the bottom of the foot can feel tight or sore. Causes may include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet, or footwear that lacks support. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through examination and imaging when needed. Treatment may include supportive shoes, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and targeted exercises. When conservative care fails, surgery may be considered. Most patients can bear limited weight in a boot shortly after surgery, with gradual return to walking over several weeks. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

 

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Connect With Us