Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and discomfort. Symptoms often include redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes drainage if an infection develops. Common causes are improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, trauma to the toe, or naturally curved nails. Risk factors include repetitive pressure on the toes, sweaty feet, and certain foot shapes. A podiatrist can provide safe and effective treatment by removing the ingrown portion of the nail, reducing inflammation, and preventing infection. They also offer guidance to stop the problem from returning. If you have ongoing toe pain or signs of infection, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for expert guidance and lasting relief. 

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 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 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 Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It leads to sudden pain, redness, and swelling, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes comfortably. Common causes include a diet high in purines, alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medical conditions. Risk factors ,including genetics, kidney disease, and high blood pressure, can increase susceptibility. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing pain, providing custom orthotics, and offering guidance on diet and lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with  a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Thick toenails can develop for several reasons, and understanding the cause helps guide proper treatment. One of the most frequent reasons is a fungal infection, which can make the nail appear yellow, brittle, and difficult to trim. Repeated trauma from wearing tight shoes or stubbing the toe can also cause the nail to thicken as it tries to protect itself. Aging naturally slows nail growth and can change texture over time. In some cases, medical conditions such as psoriasis or poor circulation may contribute to nail thickening. A podiatrist can identify the cause through examination and testing, then recommend the right treatment, which may include antifungal medication, nail debridement, or improved footwear. If your toenails have become thick, painful, or hard to manage, it is suggested that  you seek care from a podiatrist to restore nail health and prevent future problems.

For more information about treatment, 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.

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

Toenail removal is sometimes necessary when severe injury, chronic ingrown growth, or infection damages the nail and surrounding tissue. An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail edge presses into the skin, leading to inflammation, drainage, and discomfort that worsens with pressure or while wearing tight shoes. If an infection develops or the nail repeatedly grows into the skin, removal may be needed to prevent further tissue damage. A podiatrist can determine whether partial or complete toenail removal is appropriate. In some cases, the nail matrix, which is the tissue that produces nail growth, is treated to prevent recurrence. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, allowing the podiatrist to remove the affected section and safely clean the area. If you have a seriously infected toenail, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and relief solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.