Ingrown toenails can be painful and bothersome, but many non-surgical treatments are available to alleviate symptoms. At the first sign of pain, soaking the affected toe in warm soapy water for up to 20 minutes can soften the skin, allowing you to push it back from the nail edge. Applying antiseptic or anti-inflammatory creams may prevent infection and soothe the skin. A chiropodist can assist with more advanced non-surgical methods, such as using small pieces of sterile cotton to lift the nail away from the skin and securing it with a gauze bandage. Special tools like toenail braces or plastic gutter splints, applied by a chiropodist, can help to keep the nail from pressing into the skin and allow it to grow normally. These treatments typically require patience, as it may take several months for the nail to grow out of the inflamed area. If you have severe pain or notice pus or persistent inflammation, it is advisable to consult a chiropodist immediately. For help in managing an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is an Ingrown Toenail? 

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth

• Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area. 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail. 

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers. 

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

Toenail fungus is caused by the overgrowth of fungi such as dermatophytes and yeast in the toenail. These fungi can be airborne or naturally present on the skin, finding their way to the foot or toenail. They thrive in warm, humid environments, so damp or sweaty feet create ideal conditions for fungal proliferation. Any cracks or tears in the skin or nail can serve as entry points, allowing the fungi to penetrate deeper tissues. Once inside, they feed on the nail tissue, causing the nail to thicken, discolor, and detach from the nail bed as fungal debris accumulates. Common symptoms of toenail fungus include thickened, yellow, brown, or white nails that may develop cracks over time. While the infection often starts without pain, it can become progressively severe. Risk factors for toenail fungus include old age, previous nail trauma, and wearing tight footwear. Engaging in activities like running or swimming, and having conditions such as diabetes, blood circulation problems, are possible causes. If left untreated, toenail fungus can spread to surrounding skin, other nails, and even other parts of the body If you have developed a toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Toenail fungus can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have diabetes or a compromised immune system, it may also be dangerous. To learn more about treatment options, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Does Toenail Fungus Look Like? 

A fungal infection of the toenail may cause the affected nail to become thickened, brittle, crumbly, and yellowish or brown in color. Sometimes the toenail may separate from the nail bed, become deformed, emit a foul odor, or cause pain or discomfort. 

What Causes Toenail Fungus? 

Toenail fungus is caused by a fungus that infects the nail bed. The fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments and is also contagious. Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection of the skin, may spread to the nails and cause toenail fungus. 

What Treatments Are Available? 

Potential treatments for toenail fungus may include oral antifungal medications, topical antifungal medications, such as medicated nail polishes that are applied directly to the affected nail, and laser therapy. Sometimes, a combination of treatments is prescribed. 

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

Football players are prone to various ankle injuries due to the sport's high impact and rapid directional changes. Common ankle injuries include sprains, fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments are overstretched or torn, typically from sudden twists or impacts. Fractures result from direct blows or severe twists, leading to broken bones. Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often from overuse or repetitive stress. These injuries happen due to the intense physical demands of football, including running, jumping, and tackling. Poor playing surfaces, inadequate warm-ups, and wearing improper footwear can increase the risk. Immediate treatment involves rest, elevation, and compression. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and swelling. Severe injuries may require immobilization, targeted stretching exercises, or perhaps surgery. Preventing ankle injuries includes proper conditioning, wearing supportive footwear, and performing exercises that strengthen the ankle muscles and improve flexibility. If you believe you have injured your ankle while playing football, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for specialized care to ensure a safe return to the field and prevent future injuries.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Ankle strains or sprains

• Plantar fasciitis

• Fractures

• Turf toe 

• Joint dislocations

• Sever’s disease

• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

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

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop due to repeated friction or pressure, typically on the feet. They often form from wearing ill-fitting shoes that rub against the skin, prolonged walking or standing, and foot deformities like hammertoes or bunions. Corns come in two main types, known as hard and soft. Hard corns are small, dense patches that usually develop on the tops or sides of toes. Soft corns are found between toes and have a rubbery texture due to moisture. Both types can cause discomfort and pain when walking or wearing shoes. Addressing the root cause, such as changing footwear, using protective pads, and keeping feet dry, is essential for preventing and managing corns effectively. Many people experience pain and discomfort with corns. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can effectively treat corns and offer you prevention tips.

Corns are small bumps or dry, hardened skin that can arise on the feet, usually in response to friction. Corns can be asymptomatic, or they can be uncomfortable or painful. If you have corns that are bothering you, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are three types of corns:

• Hard corns

  • Often occur on the tops of toes

  • Feature a hard core surrounded by dry, irritated skin

  • Can be painful

• Soft corns 

  • Often occur in between the toes

  • Soft due to constant exposure to sweat

  • Can be painful 

• Seed corns

  • Tiny

  • Often occur on the soles of the feet

  • Usually asymptomatic

Corns can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit properly. They are typically benign and don’t require medical treatment. However, if your corns are causing you pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to a chiropodist near you for treatment options. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot problems are common in older adults, often resulting from the natural aging process, which can lead to changes in foot structure and function. Common issues include arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, and decreased circulation. Additionally, the skin on the feet becomes thinner and has less elasticity, making it more susceptible to injuries and infections. These foot issues can significantly increase the risk of falls, a major concern for older adults. These problems occur due to a combination of factors such as years of wear and tear, decreased physical activity, and underlying health conditions like diabetes or vascular disease. Poor foot care, wearing inappropriate footwear, and reduced mobility can exacerbate these issues. To manage foot problems in older adults, regular foot examinations are essential. Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes, maintaining good foot hygiene, and staying active to promote circulation can help. Moisturizing the feet to prevent dryness and using orthotic inserts for added support is also beneficial. If you are elderly, it is suggested that you include a chiropodist on your healthcare team to ensure comprehensive foot care and advice in addressing any issues promptly and effectively.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin

• Calluses and corns

• Blisters

• Ingrown toenails

• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

• Fungal infections

• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

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