Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. They often result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or injury to the toe. Genetic predisposition and certain activities that put pressure on the toes, such as running or ballet, can also contribute to this condition. People with curved or thick nails are more susceptible to ingrown toenails. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, and sometimes pus if an infection develops. If left untreated, the pain can intensify, making walking difficult. To find relief for an ingrown toenail, soak the foot in warm water to reduce swelling, and gently lift the nail away from the skin using a cotton ball or dental floss. Prevent ingrown toenails by trimming nails straight across, wearing properly fitting shoes, and avoiding trauma to the toes. If you have a persistent or severe ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for professional treatment and guidance. 

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 Steven Black, DPM of California . 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 office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Lupus, an autoimmune disease, can significantly affect the bones, joints, and muscles in the feet, leading to various complications. This condition causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues, resulting in inflammation and damage. In the feet, lupus commonly leads to arthritis, causing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendons, is also frequent, causing pain and difficulty in movement. Additionally, tendon laxity, or the loosening of tendons, can occur, causing instability and increasing the risk of sprains. One severe complication of lupus is avascular necrosis, where reduced blood flow to the bones leads to bone tissue death. This condition can cause severe pain and lead to bone collapse if untreated. Managing lupus symptoms requires early intervention and proper care. If you have this disease and are experiencing foot-related issues, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized treatment and to address your specific problems.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Soccer players frequently encounter foot injuries due to the sport’s high physical demands. Foot blisters are common, starting as irritated skin and developing into fluid-filled bubbles from the friction inside the shoes. Ankle sprains, the most common soccer injury, occur from twisting or impact, leading to ligament stretching or tearing. Wearing tight shoes often cause toenail injuries, and can lead to blood forming under the nail, loose nails, or nails falling off. Turf toe, a painful sprain of the big toe joint, occurs from sudden jamming movements, especially on artificial turf, and necessitates rest and immobilization. Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel to the toes, and is considered an overuse injury. Achilles tendonitis affects the back of the heel and can be caused by overuse, inadequate warm-ups, or wearing improper footwear. Foot fractures and stress fractures often result from direct impacts, acute twisting, or repetitive stress during play. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while playing soccer, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Steven Black, DPM of California . Our doctor 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
• Plantar Fasciosis
• 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 feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot fractures, though often underestimated, can cause significant pain and hinder mobility. A foot fracture occurs when one or more bones in the foot break, commonly due to trauma from falls, accidents, or repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping. Those at risk include athletes, individuals with osteoporosis, and people who have structural foot abnormalities. Diagnosing a foot fracture involves a physical examination, often accompanied by X-rays to confirm the extent and location of the injury. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Pain, particularly while walking or bearing weight, is a hallmark symptom of a foot fracture. While some fractures may heal with rest and immobilization, others may require more aggressive treatment such as casting or surgery. If you believe you have sustained a foot fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and comprehensive plan to alleviate pain, promote healing, and prevent complications.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Arthritis, a condition causing joint inflammation, manifests in various forms, each impacting the feet differently. Osteoarthritis, the most common type, affects the cartilage, leading to joint pain and stiffness. In feet, it often targets the big toe, making it painful to walk or stand. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, affects joints symmetrically, often leading to deformities in the feet such as bunions and hammertoes. Gout, characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness, typically targets the big toe joint. Psoriatic arthritis, linked with psoriasis, can cause swelling in the toes. Ankylosing spondylitis, affecting the spine and large joints, may also cause inflammation in the feet, leading to stiffness and discomfort. If you have any arthritic foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer a personalized treatment to help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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