An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain and irritation. This condition commonly affects the big toe and can result in redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border. In more severe cases, infection may develop, causing increased pain, drainage, or pus formation. Wearing tight shoes, trimming nails too short, or cutting them at an angle increases the risk of developing an ingrown toenail. Injury to the toe or genetic factors that cause curved nails may also contribute to the problem. Proper nail care, including straight trimming and wearing well-fitted shoes, can help prevent this condition. Ingrown toenails can cause pain and discomfort that make it difficult to complete daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment methods.

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 one of our podiatrists of Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Maintaining good foot health is essential for people with diabetes to prevent complications like infections or ulcers. High blood sugar can cause nerve damage and poor circulation, making it harder to detect injuries or infections. Regularly check your feet for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. If you notice any changes, seek treatment immediately. Wearing the right shoes is key. Opt for well-fitting shoes that provide support and avoid tight or high-heeled footwear. Soft, moisture-wicking socks help protect your feet from friction and reduce the risk of blisters. Keep your toenails trimmed and filed to prevent ingrown toenails and avoid cutting them too short, which can lead to injury. If you experience numbness, tingling, or pain in your feet, it is important to consult a podiatrist. They can help with routine foot exams, treatment for any existing issues, and advice on proper footwear or orthotics. For optimal foot care, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

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 Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot wounds can lead to serious complications if not cared for properly. A podiatrist is a trained specialist who takes specific steps to clean and treat a foot wound to ensure it heals effectively and reduces the risk of infection. After the hands are washed, the wound is assessed for any foreign debris, such as dirt or stones. Using sterile gauze or a clean cloth, the wound is cleaned with mild soap and water, and caution is taken to not scrub the affected area. This is followed by applying a suitable antiseptic solution to disinfect the wound. Once the area is properly cleaned and disinfected, the wound is covered with a sterile bandage to create a protective barrier, promoting faster healing. If you have sustained a foot wound, it is suggested to seek professional care from a podiatrist to ensure the wound is treated appropriately and to receive guidance on the best care practices for your specific injury.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Leg length discrepancy, or LLD, happens when one leg is shorter than the other. It can be caused by genetics, injury, or uneven bone growth and affects people of all ages. Even mild differences can lead to an uneven gait, back pain, and foot strain as the body compensates for the imbalance. Custom orthotic insoles help to level the discrepancy, improve gait symmetry, and reduce strain on the feet, knees, and hips. Orthotics help distribute weight evenly, ease pain, and prevent long-term joint issues. If you have a leg length discrepancy, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can measure your leg length, assess your gait, and design orthotics tailored to your needs. By addressing the imbalance early, you can enjoy better mobility and prevent discomfort from worsening.

Discover relief from persistent foot pain with custom orthotics and shoe inserts. If you’re battling heel pain, these personalized solutions offer targeted support, addressing the root causes of discomfort. Customized to your unique biomechanics, these inserts provide stability, alleviating both heel and foot pain. Say goodbye to the agony of every step and hello to a life free from constant foot pain. Invest in your well-being with custom orthotics or shoe inserts ensuring your feet receive the care they deserve. Step confidently, step comfortably – because a pain-free journey begins with the right support. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.