An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This condition most often affects the big toe and can cause significant discomfort. The area may appear red, swollen, and tender, and the skin along the nail edge may feel painful when touched or when pressure is applied from shoes. As the condition worsens, the area can become warm, inflamed, or even develop drainage if infection begins. Common causes include trimming the nails too short, rounding the corners of the nail, tight footwear, injury to the toe, or natural nail shape. A podiatrist can evaluate the toe and determine the best treatment based on the severity of the condition. Early care may include careful nail trimming, reducing pressure on the toe, and protecting the irritated skin. If the problem continues or the nail becomes infected, a small procedure may be performed to remove the ingrown portion of the nail and prevent it from returning. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. 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

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 Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Healthcare workers spend long hours standing and walking, which makes wearing proper footwear essential for comfort, safety, and injury prevention. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes helps reduce strain on the feet, ankles, and lower legs, which can lower the risk of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendon irritation, and joint discomfort. Protective, slip-resistant footwear can also help guard against workplace hazards, including exposure to blood-borne pathogens and other fluids that may be present in medical environments. Wearing supportive shoes can also help reduce muscle fatigue by providing cushioning and stability throughout demanding shifts. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend proper footwear, and address developing foot problems. If foot pain or fatigue affects work performance, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can guide you on correct shoes to wear for ease and foot protection during your work day. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle fracture is more than a broken bone. It can affect nearly every part of daily living. Simple tasks such as walking, driving, cooking, or climbing stairs may suddenly become difficult. Many people require crutches, a walking boot, or even surgery, followed by weeks of limited movement. During recovery, muscle strength and joint flexibility often decrease, which can lead to stiffness and balance problems. Time away from work and reduced activity can also affect emotional well-being. Some individuals feel frustrated or isolated as they depend on others for help. For older adults, a fall-related fracture may increase concern about future mobility and independence. Even after the bone heals, lingering swelling or discomfort may continue for months. Proper treatment and guided rehabilitation play an important role in restoring strength and stability. If you have suffered an ankle injury with lasting pain or instability, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for guidance.

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Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is not always caused by the same organism. The three main types of fungi that infect nails are dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. Dermatophytes are the most common and feed on keratin, the protein that forms the nail. These infections often cause yellow or white discoloration, thickening, and a brittle texture. Yeast infections may lead to redness, swelling around the cuticle, and lifting of the nail plate. Molds are less common but can create dark brown, black, or green discoloration with irregular nail changes. The nail may appear distorted, crumbly, or separated from the nail bed. A podiatrist can evaluate the nail, take a small sample for testing, and determine the exact cause. Treatment may include topical medication, oral antifungal therapy, or careful trimming of damaged nails. If you have nail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.