An ingrown toenail happens when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the nearby skin instead of growing forward normally. The big toe is affected most often, although any toenail can become ingrown. At first, the problem may seem minor, especially if discomfort only occurs while wearing shoes. Without proper care, however, an ingrown toenail can become increasingly painful and may lead to an infection. Understanding the early warning signs can help you seek treatment before the problem becomes more difficult to manage.

One of the most common symptoms is pain or tenderness along the side of the affected toe. Pressure from wearing shoes or walking may make the discomfort worse. The skin surrounding the nail can become red, swollen, and sensitive to touch. Some people notice clear fluid, while others may see pus when an infection is present. The toe may also feel warm. These changes are important signs that the nail and surrounding skin need attention.

Several factors can increase the risk of an ingrown toenail. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight shoes can also place repeated pressure against the toes. Toe injuries, naturally curved nails, and repeated pressure from activities can contribute as well. People who have difficulty caring for their feet should be especially careful because a small nail problem can sometimes progress quickly. Keeping toenails trimmed straight across and wearing properly fitted shoes can help reduce risk.

A podiatrist will examine the affected toe and look for inflammation, infection, or other problems affecting the nail. When needed, the podiatrist may gently lift or separate the nail edge from the skin. More painful or recurring cases may require partial nail removal to prevent the problem from returning. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, which may include minor surgery. 

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

Choosing the right hiking shoes can make every trail more comfortable, and help reduce foot problems. Hiking shoes support the feet during outdoor activity. Hiking boots provide more ankle coverage and offer added stability on rocky terrain. Symptoms of wearing poor footwear include foot pain, blisters, or sore toes. Risk factors include long hikes, steep trails, and shoes that fit poorly. The right footwear should match your trail and your foot shape.

Hikers may choose lightweight hiking shoes for easier trails or boots for rougher terrain. Look for a secure heel, enough toe room, and a sturdy and flexible sole. Protection matters because rocks and roots can stress the feet. Comfort is important because pressure can worsen during a long hike. Boots that are light weight can reduce fatigue, while breathability helps manage moisture. Try hiking footwear with your socks and walk around before buying.

Wearing the wrong hiking shoes can contribute to blisters, corns, and ankle discomfort. Shoes that squeeze the toes may create pressure and rubbing. Loose footwear can cause sliding and friction. Poor support may increase strain on the arches and heels. To prevent problems, trace your foot when ordering footwear online, and compare the outline with the shoe shape. Try on shoes later in the day when the feet are larger.

If hiking foot pain develops, a podiatrist can examine your feet, review your footwear, and identify the cause. Treatment may include activity changes, protective padding, or custom orthotics, when appropriate. A podiatrist may also treat blisters, corns, or inflammation, and monitor healing when symptoms persist. If you develop foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes while hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that affects the nail, the tissue beneath it, or both. Toenails are much more commonly affected than fingernails. The infection can cause a toenail to become thickened and develop yellow or white discoloration. Material may also collect underneath the nail, and the nail can begin separating from the nail bed. Several types of fungi can cause these infections. Risk factors include older age, previous nail damage, and athlete’s foot. Diabetes and poor circulation can also increase the likelihood of developing toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus does not always cause discomfort, especially during its earlier stages. However, changes in the appearance and structure of the nail may become more noticeable as the infection progresses. Some fungal infections begin near the end of the nail and cause thickening or yellowing. Others can create a chalky white appearance on the nail surface. Because other nail disorders can look similar, appearance alone is not always enough to confirm a fungal infection. Testing a sample from the affected nail can help determine whether fungus is actually responsible for the changes.

A podiatrist can examine an abnormal toenail and determine whether testing for toenail fungus is appropriate. Confirming the diagnosis is important because conditions like psoriasis can cause similar nail changes but require different treatment. Depending on the number of nails affected and the severity of the infection, professional treatment may include topical or oral antifungal medication. Toenails grow slowly, so a healthy-looking new nail may take 12 to 18 months to fully replace the affected nail. Treatment decisions can also depend on other medical conditions and the amount of discomfort caused by the infection. If you notice persistent toenail thickening, discoloration, or separation from the nail bed, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors 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 Lemont, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form beneath the outer layer of skin. On the feet, they frequently develop when repeated friction damages the skin. Shoes that rub against the heel or toes can create enough friction to cause a blister. Heat, burns, or certain skin reactions can also lead to blister formation. Most blisters contain clear fluid, although some contain blood after a stronger injury. A blister can feel tender or painful, especially when pressure from a shoe repeatedly irritates the affected area.

Foot blisters can vary in size and appearance. The skin around a blister can become red and sore. A blister can break open, leaving the sensitive skin underneath exposed. This can increase the risk of infection. Signs of infection include increasing pain, redness, or swelling. Pus can also develop in an infected blister. People with diabetes need to pay particular attention to blisters on their feet because reduced sensation can make them harder to notice. Problems with blood flow can also interfere with healing. Repeated blisters can indicate that pressure or friction is affecting the same area of the foot.

A podiatrist can examine a painful blister and determine whether infection or another foot problem is present. The evaluation can also identify pressure points and areas where shoes are repeatedly rubbing against the skin. A podiatrist can recommend ways to reduce pressure and protect the affected area while it heals. Care can also address foot structure or movement patterns that contribute to repeated friction. Blisters that are very painful, keep returning, or show signs of infection deserve prompt evaluation. Patients with diabetes should be especially careful about changes in the skin of their feet. If you have developed foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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