An ingrown toenail is a condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and pain. While mild cases may seem to improve temporarily, ingrown toenails rarely heal on their own and often worsen without proper care. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, toe injuries, and inherited nail shape. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, drainage, and signs of infection around the nail border. Walking or wearing shoes can become uncomfortable as the condition progresses. A podiatrist can help by safely removing the ingrown portion of the nail, treating infection, and preventing recurrence through corrective procedures and education. If you have ongoing toe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for nail removal.  

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle 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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot care is especially important for individuals with diabetes because reduced sensation and poor circulation can increase the risk of complications. Examining your feet daily helps you notice cuts, redness, swelling, or changes that may need attention. Caring for toenails by trimming them straight across and keeping the skin clean and moisturized supports overall foot health. Wearing properly fitting shoes protects the feet from pressure and friction that can lead to sores or ulcers. A podiatrist can provide regular evaluations, manage toenail and skin concerns, and address issues before they become serious. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you make foot care a daily priority and seek podiatric support to keep your feet healthy, comfortable, and protected.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in a joint, most commonly at the base of the big toe. It often begins suddenly and causes intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth that can make even light touch uncomfortable. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and diabetes, all of which can increase uric acid levels in the body. Gout attacks may recur if the underlying cause is not addressed. A podiatrist can evaluate the affected joint, confirm the diagnosis, and create a personalized plan that may include lifestyle guidance, footwear changes, and targeted treatments to reduce inflammation. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Achilles tendinitis causes pain and stiffness along the back of the ankle, where the tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Symptoms often build gradually during walking or activity. Among them are swelling, warmth, or a thickened area along the tendon. Bending the ankle upward can intensify the discomfort. Some patients also feel a tender nodule or hear a faint crackle when the tendon moves. Achilles tendinitis often develops when the tendon is repeatedly stressed by running, jumping, or rapid increases in activity. It can also be linked to tension from tight calf muscles, certain forms of arthritis, or shoes that lack adequate support, such as worn-out sneakers or flip-flops. A podiatrist can assess the Achilles tendon, order imaging if needed, and guide an effective treatment plan that protects the foot and lowers the risk of a tendon rupture. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.