Items filtered by date: May 2024

Ingrown toenails, where the nail grows into the surrounding skin, can be treated through both surgical and non-surgical methods. Non-surgical treatments include proper nail care, such as trimming the nail straight across and soaking the foot in warm water to reduce swelling. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, can also treat an ingrown toenail by gently lifting the offending nail edge to place cotton underneath, which helps guide the nail to grow outward. Wearing roomy and comfortable shoes also relieves pressure on the affected toe. For more persistent or severe cases, surgical options might be necessary. A common procedure performed by podiatrists is a partial nail avulsion, where the ingrown portion of the nail is surgically removed under local anesthesia. In cases where ingrown toenails recur frequently, a podiatrist might perform a matrixectomy, which involves removing a portion of the nail bed to prevent the problematic section of the nail from growing back. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment options to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. 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 Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Distance running, a popular form of exercise and competition, can place significant stress on the feet and ankles, leading to various injuries. One common reason is overuse, as the repetitive pounding of the feet against hard surfaces can strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments over time. Improper footwear or worn-out running shoes lacking adequate support or cushioning can increase the risk of injury. Additionally, biomechanical factors, such as overpronation or supination, where the foot rolls inward or outward excessively during the running gait, can contribute to instability and strain on the ankles. Running on uneven terrain or hard surfaces without proper shock absorption can also heighten the risk of foot and ankle injuries. Furthermore, sudden increases in training volume or intensity without proper conditioning and recovery can overload the lower extremities, predisposing runners to injuries. Foot and ankle injuries are common in people who enjoy running. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment methods, in addition to effective injury prevention techniques.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, is a common procedure aimed at correcting the misalignment of the big toe joint caused by a bony bump known as a bunion. While bunion surgery can provide relief from pain and improve foot function, it is essential to understand several key facts before undergoing the procedure. Firstly, there are different types of bunion surgeries, ranging from minimally invasive techniques to more extensive procedures depending on the severity of the bunion and individual patient factors. Secondly, recovery from bunion surgery typically involves a period of immobilization followed by exercises to restore strength and flexibility to the foot. Additionally, it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of bunion surgery, as full recovery can take several months, and there may still be some residual stiffness or swelling afterward. If you have a bunion and are considering surgery, it is strongly suggested that you seek advice from a podiatrist who can determine if this is a right decision for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects millions of individuals in the United States. It is caused by reduced blood flow due to plaque buildup in peripheral arteries. PAD often targets the lower extremities, seriously affecting the legs and feet. A common indicator of peripheral artery disease is intermittent muscle pain in the lower legs during activity that subsides with rest. Other signs include diminished toenail and leg hair growth, temperature disparities between feet and non-healing wounds. Treatment from a podiatrist is essential for alleviating symptoms and preventing further complications. Podiatrists can offer various treatment options for PAD, including custom orthotic devices and footwear modifications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments, such as smoking cessation and managing underlying conditions like hypertension, are essential in PAD management. Early intervention not only improves quality of life but also reduces the risk of severe complications associated with PAD. If you experience symptoms of peripheral artery disease that is affecting your lower legs and feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists  from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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