Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This common condition usually affects the nail on the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury to the toe. In some cases, a naturally curved nail shape increases the likelihood of developing an ingrown toenail. To prevent or treat ingrown toenails, it is important to trim nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Wearing shoes that provide enough room for your toes can also help. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to more serious complications, such as infection, abscess formation, or even the need for surgical removal of part of the nail. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor 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 Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can result from various causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Common causes include sprains, where ligaments are stretched or torn due to sudden twisting motions, and tendonitis, which occurs when tendons surrounding the ankle become inflamed from overuse. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can lead to ankle pain over time due to joint wear and tear. Stress fractures or broken bones may also cause severe ankle pain following trauma. In some cases, flat feet or improper foot mechanics can put strain on the ankle, leading to discomfort. If pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Stress fractures of the feet and ankles are tiny cracks in the bones that result from repetitive stress or overuse, rather than from a single traumatic event. They commonly occur in athletes, runners, or individuals who suddenly increase their physical activity. The bones most affected are the metatarsals in the foot and the tibia near the ankle. Symptoms of a stress fracture include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, and tenderness to touch. The pain may decrease with rest but return during weight-bearing activities. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. Treatment includes rest, and In severe cases, crutches or surgery may be necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the fracture from worsening and to ensure a full recovery. If you believe you have endured a foot or ankle stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and care.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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