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 Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . 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 is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falling can significantly effect the feet, especially as people age. When an individual falls, the feet may suffer from sprains, fractures, or bruises. For older adults, the risk is heightened due to age-related changes in the feet. As one ages, the muscles and ligaments in the feet weaken, reducing balance and stability. The fat pads on the soles of the feet thin out, offering less cushioning and making the feet more vulnerable to injury upon impact. Additionally, conditions like arthritis, poor circulation, and reduced flexibility in aging feet can complicate recovery after a fall. Even minor injuries can cause lasting discomfort or difficulty walking. To protect the feet, it is important to wear supportive footwear, engage in balance-strengthening exercises, and ensure a safe living environment to prevent falls and reduce the risk of injury. If you have endured a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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