An ingrown toenail is a condition of the foot that occurs when the side of the nail grows into the skin surrounding the nail bed. As a result, there can be inflammation at the site of the side of the toenail. Some cases of ingrown toenails are so severe that surgery is needed to correct the condition. Many patients want to know what they should be doing after undergoing a surgical procedure. You should always listen to the advice and instructions of your medical professional, such as a podiatrist. They might tell you to rest the foot in the days following surgery. The instructions that your medical professional gives you might also include ways in which you can reduce the risk of developing an infection of some kind. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, then it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. 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 Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition that causes pain between the third and fourth toes. It affects the nerve in this area of the foot, and it may become enlarged and irritated. This can happen from wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area to freely move in. High heels fit into this category, and can cause the toes to become cramped. Some of the symptoms that are felt with this condition can include a sensation that is likened to stepping on a marble or small pebble, and the area can feel like it is burning or numb. Relief may be found when appropriate shoes are worn, and it is beneficial to refrain from wearing high heels. The sooner the relief is found, the more of a chance a treatment method will be successful. This may include wearing orthotics that can support the shape of the foot, which may ultimately help in reducing existing irritation from the nerve. If you feel you may have Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can confirm the diagnosis and offer effective treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Children’s feet are different from those of adults in many ways. A baby’s foot is soft and flexible because their bones are still forming. It’s important to remember this fact when deciding on footwear for your young child. Experts warn against putting shoes on children too early. Even toddlers do better indoors without shoes, allowing their feet to become stronger and toes to develop a grasping action. A child needs to begin wearing shoes out of doors when they start to walk. These should not be too tight, and it is recommended to measure your child’s feet about every three months as they can grow quickly. Also, be on the lookout for abnormal walking patterns in your child as these may indicate underlying problems. However, do not worry that your child has flat feet, as they are born that way. The arch begins to develop as the child ages. Gait problems, such as in-toeing or out-toeing, may need to be looked at by a podiatrist, who is a medical professional trained to deal with problems of the feet, ankles, and toes.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

The Achilles tendon connects the muscles in the calf and lower leg to the heel bone. Like all tendons, this tendon is strong but not particularly flexible. If it is overstretched, it can become inflamed, which is tendonitis, or torn, and this is known as a rupture. When not taken care of, a condition called tendinosis can develop and chronic issues with the Achilles tendon will result. Achilles tendon injuries can cause mild to severe pain, burning, and stiffness in the Achilles tendon area or heel. These types of injuries are more common among athletes, especially runners, and those who play sports that require multiple starts, stops, and sudden changes of direction. Other groups of people who can be prone to getting Achilles tendon injuries are those who do not warm up prior to exercising, or those who increase the amount or intensity of their workouts suddenly. Additionally, patients who are obese, and those with prior health conditions, such as psoriasis or high blood pressure, may also be susceptible to incurring this type of injury. A rupture is a rare and serious Achilles tendon injury, and walking will usually be unbearable. If you have sustained an injury to your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can begin treatment as soon as possible, which may help to avoid further complications.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor 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 office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.