An ingrown toenail is a painful and uncomfortable foot condition that is a result of the toenail growing into the skin. If left untreated it may produce serious complications, and this may be especially true of diabetic patients. There may be several causes of this condition occurring, including trimming the toenails improperly, inherited genetic traits, and wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. For some people, if they have incurred an injury such as stubbing or jamming their toe, they may observe that an ingrown toenail may begin to develop. There are noticeable symptoms that typically occur with this ailment, including the skin surrounding the toe appearing red, pain and discomfort that is experienced when pressure is applied to the toe, in addition to pus or blood oozing from the toe. If you feel you have developed an ingrown toenail, it’s advised to consult with a podiatrist, who can perform any treatment options that is recommended for you.

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 Dr. Thong V. Truong 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 Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are several reasons why many people experience poor circulation in the feet. Smoking has been known to cause the arteries to narrow in addition to a lack of exercise. When lifestyle changes are implemented, poor circulation may be controlled. Ingesting a healthy diet may benefit blood flow in the body, and circulation issues may be improved. People who live a sedentary lifestyle may feel symptoms of this condition, and research has shown the importance of stretching every few hours, which may loosen the muscles and tendons and improve blood flow. There are several symptoms that are indicative of poor circulation, including feeling a cold sensation in the toes most of the time regardless of outdoor temperature, experiencing frequent dizzy spells, and a tingling feeling, or pins and needles in the feet. It’s suggested to confer with a podiatrist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms for a correct diagnosis.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

If you have young children, you should be aware of the different foot problems and abnormalities they may encounter throughout development. Some of these common conditions include in-toeing, flat feet, out-toeing, and tiptoe walking. In-toeing and out-toeing are conditions in which a child’s foot turns inward or outward, respectively. However, these conditions tend to correct themselves when your child approaches the ages of 8 or 9. Tiptoe walking is common in children aged 3 and under, and it involves the child walking solely on their tiptoes. Nevertheless, children’s feet tend to grow rapidly before the age of 5. Consequently, it is important that you give your child proper fitting footwear to promote healthy feet development. If you have concerns about the development of your child’s feet, you may find it helpful to speak with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. 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 Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.