Ingrown toenails in babies occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and sometimes pain. This can happen due to improper nail trimming, wearing tight socks or shoes, or even a natural tendency for the nails to curve as they grow. To manage an ingrown toenail in your baby, soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the nail and skin. After soaking, gently massage the skin away from the nail. Avoid tight footwear, and keep the nails trimmed straight across without cutting too short. If you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge, or if the ingrown nail does not improve with mild care, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a more targeted treatment method.
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 Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . 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 Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Metatarsal stress fractures are common injuries among athletes, particularly those engaged in high-impact sports like running, basketball, dance, and soccer. These fractures occur when repetitive stress is placed on the long bones of the foot, called metatarsals, leading to tiny cracks that can develop into more serious injuries if not addressed. The fifth metatarsal is particularly prone to stress fractures due to the unique forces it endures during physical activity. Athletes are at greater risk because of the constant and repetitive strain their feet experience during training and competition. Symptoms include localized pain and swelling, which can worsen with continued activity. A podiatrist uses techniques such as activity modification, orthotics, and sometimes immobilization to promote healing. Early intervention by a podiatrist can prevent complications and ensure a quicker return to sports. If you have foot pain after physical activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if you have metatarsal stress fractures.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
Runners
People affected with Osteoporosis
Tennis or basketball players
Gymnasts
High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
The foot’s structure is a marvel of anatomical design, consisting of 26 bones, numerous ligaments, and several joints that work harmoniously to support movement and balance. The major bones include the calcaneus, talus, and metatarsals, which form the framework of the foot. Ligaments, such as the plantar fascia and the deltoid ligament, provide stability and help maintain the arch. The ankle joint, where the tibia and fibula meet the talus, allows for flexibility and movement, which is essential for walking and running. Together, these components facilitate a range of movements while absorbing impact and distributing weight evenly. If you have injured your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat any foot condition, and can answer any questions you may have about the foot’s structure.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
