Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. Common causes include cutting toenails too short, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, toe injuries, or having naturally curved nails. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain along the nail margin. If left untreated, the area can become infected, leading to drainage, increased swelling, and more intense discomfort. The affected toe may feel warm to the touch and make walking or wearing shoes difficult. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a visual examination and determine if an infection is present. Treatment options range from soaking the foot and gently lifting the nail to performing a minor procedure to remove part of the nail. In some cases, a more permanent solution may be recommended to prevent recurrence. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to relieve pain and avoid further complications.

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 one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Big toe joint pain is common among pickleball players due to the quick pivots, lunges, and bursts of movement required in the game. One frequent cause is turf toe, which occurs when the big toe is forced upward, straining the ligaments around the joint. Symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness, and difficulty pushing off while moving. Risk factors include playing on hard surfaces, wearing unsupportive shoes, and repetitive stress on the forefoot. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, provide treatment to relieve pain, and recommend footwear or orthotics to prevent future problems. Do not let toe pain sideline you from the court. If you have toe pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, allowing you to resume playing this popular game. 

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 doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. 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 contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the feet and ankles. This often happens after long periods of standing or sitting, especially in warm weather, when gravity causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, such as flip-flops, may also contribute to swelling by failing to help the foot muscles and veins return fluid upward. Age can increase the risk because weakened veins have more difficulty moving blood against gravity. Other possible causes of swollen feet and ankles include high salt intake, pregnancy-related changes, or certain health conditions that affect circulation. Swelling may cause the skin on the feet and ankles to appear stretched and shiny, and, in some cases, pressing on the area may leave a noticeable indentation. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, provide treatment options, and recommend whether additional care is needed. If you are experiencing swelling in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also called pes planus, occur when the longitudinal arch along the inside of the foot is lowered or absent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition may affect one or both feet and is common in children until the arch develops, usually by the age of 5. Some people remain flat-footed into adulthood without symptoms, while others may begin to feel pain in the feet, toes, or ankles. Discomfort may arise from excessive standing, running, or jumping, poorly fitted shoes, sudden weight gain, or injury. Flat feet can also be inherited or linked to conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of the feet, recommend orthotics for improved alignment, and in rare cases, discuss surgery if severe problems occur. If you have pain related to flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.