Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin instead of over it, often the result of improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or injury. Ingrown toenails are common in children, as well as adults. The condition can cause pain, redness, and swelling around the child’s toe. If not treated properly, it can lead to infection. Especially for children, treatment typically begins conservatively, using methods such as soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water to soften the nail and relieve pain. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, may try lifting the edge of the ingrown nail and placing a small amount of cotton underneath it to help guide the nail to grow above the skin. I is important for children to wear properly fitting shoes and to have their toenails trimmed straight across instead of rounded. This can help prevent the recurrence of ingrown toenails. If conservative treatments fail or if the ingrown toenail recurs frequently, a podiatrist may perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail. They may treat the nail bed to prevent further issues, if necessary. This approach helps alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications. If your child is suffering with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for prompt treatment. 

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 Parkwood Podiatry. 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 offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunionettes, also known as tailor's bunions, are bony bumps that develop on the outside of the foot, near the base of the pinky toe. Understanding the definition and underlying causes of these foot deformities is vital for effective management and prevention. Essentially, a bunionette forms when the bone at the base of the fifth toe protrudes outward, often accompanied by the misalignment of the toe joint. This condition is primarily attributed to structural imbalances in the foot, including inherited foot shapes, abnormal foot mechanics, or wearing narrow shoes that compress the toes. Over time, pressure and friction on the affected area can exacerbate the deformity, leading to pain, inflammation, and difficulty wearing certain footwear. While bunions and bunionettes share similar characteristics, they affect different areas of the foot. Bunionettes typically develop on the outer edge of the foot, whereas bunions occur at the base of the big toe. If you have developed a bunion or bunionette, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Foot protection is a critical aspect of workplace safety that often goes overlooked. Whether you work in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or any other industry, ensuring the safety of your feet is essential for preventing injuries and maintaining productivity. A variety of hazards, including heavy objects, sharp materials, electrical equipment, and slippery surfaces, pose risks to the feet in the workplace. Choosing appropriate footwear, such as steel-toed boots, non-slip shoes, or puncture-resistant soles, can provide vital protection against these dangers. Additionally, proper fitting footwear with sufficient support and cushioning reduces the risk of discomfort, fatigue, and long-term foot problems. By recognizing the importance of foot protection and taking proactive measures, both employers and workers can create safer, more secure work environments. If you have incurred a foot injury while at work, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment plans, in addition to providing you with information about foot protection during your workday. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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