An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and redness. This common condition often affects the big toe and can lead to infection if left untreated. Symptoms include tenderness, throbbing pain, and the presence of pus or drainage. The causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or trauma to the toe. People with certain foot shapes or conditions like diabetes may be at higher risk of ingrown toenails. Treatment options vary depending on severity. A wedge resection is a surgical procedure in which a small portion of the nail is removed to alleviate pressure. In some cases, partial toenail removal may be recommended to prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing pain from an ingrown toenail, a podiatrist can offer effective solutions, from conservative treatments to surgery. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor for treatment and relief.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of DM Foot & Ankle Associates . 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 office located in Lemont, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

For many, athlete’s foot is a minor fungal infection, often treated with over-the-counter creams and a commitment to using care in damp environments, such as pool areas or locker rooms. In extremely rare cases, the fungus can penetrate deeper than the skin, spreading to the bones. Scientists recently identified a genetic defect in some individuals that can allow the fungus to spread this way, explaining why typical treatments may fail for them. If you have athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions and monitoring of potential complications.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Foot and ankle pain while cycling can stem from several factors. One of the most common causes is improper bike fit, where the saddle height, handlebar position, or pedal alignment may put excessive strain on the feet and ankles. Poorly fitted shoes or stiff insoles can also contribute to discomfort, restricting foot movement and causing pressure points. Another common cause is overuse, where long or intense cycling sessions lead to muscle fatigue and strain. Conditions like Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis can also cause pain in the feet or ankles, often worsened by cycling. Additionally, pedaling mechanics, such as using the wrong cycling shoes or not engaging the right muscles, may lead to joint pain or discomfort. To prevent pain, it is essential to ensure proper bike fit, wear appropriate shoes, and gradually increase cycling intensity. If you enjoy cycling and have endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you to effective injury prevention methods.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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