Items filtered by date: May 2023

There is no mistaking the pain from an ingrown toenail. It happens when the nail grows into the skin instead of over it, causing the surrounding skin to be red and tender. If prompt medical attention is not received, the ingrown toenail may bleed, become swollen, and infected. This foot condition can happen from wearing shoes or socks that are too tight, or if a heavy object should drop on the nail. Additionally, trimming the toenails incorrectly may be a reason an ingrown toenail can develop. Patients may temporarily find mild relief when they soak the affected foot in warm water. This can help the skin to become soft, making it easier to gently pull the nail away from the skin. People who are afflicted with an ingrown toenail may choose to wear larger shoes, which can help reduce any discomfort. If the ingrown toenail is severe, surgery may be necessary in providing permanent relief. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition. 

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 Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Texarkana and, Pittsburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Most people are familiar with bunions, but another toe deformity that can become uncomfortable, or even painful, is claw toe. The tip of the toe curls underneath the foot, while the base of the toe rises up. This usually occurs in one or more of the smaller toes. Although claw toe can be a sign of diabetes, it may also be the result of shoe type, foot structure, or some type of trauma. Besides improperly fitting shoes or other footwear, the causes of claw toe may include ankle injuries, inflammation, or swelling of the feet. In addition, nerve damage that weakens the muscles in the feet may be a factor. Certain underlying medical conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, cerebral palsy, and diabetes have been identified as possible factors in the development of claw toe. The risk of claw toe increases with age. If you have noticed a change in the structure of your toes or are experiencing unusual pain in the toes, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can conduct an examination, offer a diagnosis, and suggest a possible treatment plan.  

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texarkana and, Pittsburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

When an individual is pregnant, they might notice that the size of their feet has significantly increased. This is due to the fact that the hormone known as relaxin is released during pregnancy, which can cause the feet to expand and get larger. New mothers often ask how common it is for a woman’s feet to increase during pregnancy. The answer is that 60% of women have seen their feet get longer, and 70% of women have seen their feet get wider. Therefore, it is a relatively common phenomenon. Increasing foot size is just one of many different potential changes that your body might go through during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to be, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Philip Hahn, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texarkana and, Pittsburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There is a small percentage of people worldwide who are affected by the foot condition that is known as gout. It is a form of arthritis and can cause debilitating pain and discomfort. Gout occurs due to excess uric acid in the blood. The excess uric acid may be caused by eating foods with large amounts of purines. These can consist of shellfish, red meat, and sugary drinks. Gout may also occur from genetic reasons, and it may be more prevalent among men who are over 40 years old. The abundance of uric acid converts to crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe, and in addition to the pain, there may be swelling and redness. The range of motion in the toe may be temporarily reduced, and the pain may radiate to the other joints. Gout attacks may be prevented when healthy foods are eaten, including vegetables, whole grain foods, and dairy products that are low in fat. If you suffer from gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Philip Hahn, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texarkana and, Pittsburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Having the right running shoe is paramount to reducing the chances of pain and injury. However, knowing how to find the shoe that best serves a runner’s needs can be confusing. Here are a few tips for simplifying the decision. The first consideration is knowing the type of running you will be doing and how often you will be doing it. Second, identify the terrain or environment you will be running in. For instance, trail shoes will have more grip and tread on the soles, while road shoes have flatter soles. Third, consider any previous running injuries you may have encountered and see a podiatrist who can examine your gait. Running shoes offer different types of cushioning, support, and stability based on the biomechanics of your feet. A podiatrist, who is a medically trained foot doctor, is a good source of information for anyone interested in finding the running shoe that will best serve your needs and protect your feet. If you are serious about running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation. 

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Philip Hahn, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texarkana and, Pittsburg, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.