An ingrown toenail can begin as a minor annoyance, but become much more uncomfortable if it continues to worsen. In the earliest phase, the skin along the nail edge may become tender, swollen, and red as the nail presses into nearby tissue. If the irritation continues, the area may become increasingly sore and start to produce drainage, which can signal infection or ongoing inflammation. In more advanced cases, excess tissue may develop around the nail border as the body reacts to the repeated irritation, making the toe appear swollen and overgrown in that area. Because symptoms can progress in clear stages, early evaluation can make treatment simpler and more effective. A podiatrist can assess how far the condition has advanced and recommend appropriate care, which may range from conservative treatment to a minor procedure for stubborn cases. If you have a painful or worsening ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

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 John F. Torregrosa, DPM of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. 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 Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is known as Sever’s disease generally affects teenaged children. In active teenagers, tendons and muscles may pull on the growth plate in the heel, and this may cause severe pain and discomfort. Mild relief may be found when the activity that caused the ailment ceases and when specific stretches are frequently performed. In severe cases, it may be beneficial to use an elastic wrap on the affected foot, and this may help to reduce existing swelling. If you notice your child is limping, it is strongly recommended that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see John F. Torregrosa, DPM from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition that affects the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often appears as stiffness and soreness along the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after activity. The problem develops from repeated strain, sudden increases in exercise, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Runners, athletes, and people who stand for long hours have a higher risk. A podiatrist can diagnose the issue through a physical exam and imaging tests, when needed. Treatment may include targeted therapies, custom orthotics, and guidance to reduce stress on the tendon. Early evaluation helps prevent worsening damage and supports a safer return to normal movement and activity. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact John F. Torregrosa, DPM of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone becomes slightly displaced, often causing pain along the outer side of the foot. It can develop suddenly after an ankle sprain or gradually from repeated strain during activities such as running or jumping. This condition may create a feeling of weakness, soreness, or difficulty bearing weight, especially during push-off while walking. Risk factors include overuse, poor foot mechanics, inadequate footwear, and high impact sports. People with flat feet or unstable ankles may be more prone to this injury. A podiatrist can diagnose the problem through a careful exam, restore proper alignment, and provide treatments that improve function and relieve discomfort.  If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat foot pain.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with John F. Torregrosa, DPM from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.