An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include trimming the nails improperly, wearing poorly fitting shoes that place pressure on the toes, or sustaining an injury to the nail. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can become increasingly painful and lead to serious infections. A podiatrist can evaluate the toenail, provide professional treatment to relieve discomfort, remove part of the nail, if necessary, and offer guidance on proper nail care and footwear to prevent recurrence. If you have pain or swelling from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists 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 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 offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain is common among ice skaters due to abrupt starts and stops, repetitive movements, and long hours spent on the ice. These actions place continuous stress on the ankle joints and surrounding muscles, which can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Prevention begins with using properly fitting skates that offer the right degree of flexibility to support the ankle without restricting natural movement. Strengthening and stretching exercises also help improve stability and reduce strain during skating sessions. A podiatrist can assess ankle alignment, identify overuse issues, and recommend custom supports or treatment to relieve pain and prevent further injury. If you have sustained an ankle injury from ice skating, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief, treatment and prevention tips. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Gout is a painful type of arthritis that often affects the big toe, but can also impact other joints in the feet and ankles. It is more likely to occur in men over 40, postmenopausal women, and individuals with a diet high in red meat, seafood, or alcohol. Gout develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. These crystals cause sudden episodes of severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, often waking people at night. The affected area may appear shiny, inflamed, and extremely tender to the touch. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout through physical examination, imaging, and laboratory testing to measure uric acid levels. Treatment may include medication to reduce inflammation and pain, dietary changes, and long-term management to prevent future flare-ups. If you experience symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive proper care and relief. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors 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 Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower legs. This type of doctor manages a wide range of issues, including common foot and ankle pain, bunions, numbness in the feet, and skin conditions like plantar warts. Podiatrists also treat congenital conditions like clubfoot and other structural abnormalities that impact the mobility and comfort of children. A podiatrist can prescribe orthotics, perform minor surgical procedures, and offer guidance on footwear, as well as provide care to prevent complications. If you are experiencing foot or ankle discomfort or require specialized care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to receive expert podiatric treatment tailored to your needs.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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.