Items filtered by date: February 2025

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and redness. The condition typically affects the big toe and can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury. There are three stages of ingrown toenails. Stage 1 is when the skin around the nail becomes red and tender. You may notice slight swelling, and it can feel sore when touched. Stage 2 is when the pain intensifies, and the area may become more swollen. Pus or drainage can develop, signaling possible infection. Stage 3 is when the infection worsens and the skin surrounding the toenail may become thickened, with an increased risk of chronic pain or permanent damage. A podiatrist can determine what stage your ingrown toenail is in and design a treatment plan. They can help by expertly trimming the nail or gently lifting the nail, removing any infected tissue, and offering advice to prevent future ingrown nails. If you are experiencing an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get the proper care and avoid 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 podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a painful bony lump that forms at the base of the big toe when the top of the toe leans toward the second toe. Bunions often develop due to inherited foot structure, injuries, or excessive pressure on the front of the foot. People with flat feet or inward-rolling ankles may be more prone to the formation of bunions, as these conditions affect weight distribution and joint stability. Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can worsen the problem by increasing pressure on the big toe joint. Certain types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout, may also contribute by weakening the joint over time. As a bunion progresses, symptoms can include pain, redness, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Some people also develop corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails due to toe crowding. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of a bunion and discuss treatment options, including footwear modifications or surgery if the condition significantly affects mobility. If you have foot problems related to bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Cracked heels, an issue many women face during pregnancy, are often caused by a combination of physical and hormonal changes. One of the main causes is increased weight gain, which can put additional pressure on the feet, leading to dry and cracked skin. As the body changes, the skin may lose its natural elasticity, making it more prone to cracks, especially around the heel area. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also affect the skin's ability to retain moisture, causing dryness. Moreover, the changes in posture and gait that come with pregnancy can lead to imbalances in foot positioning, adding stress to the heels. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or standing for extended periods of time can worsen the problem. Cracked heels can be painful. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Foot fractures are breaks in the bones of the foot, often caused by trauma, overuse, or medical conditions weakening the bones. The most common types of foot fractures include stress fractures, metatarsal fractures, and calcaneal, or heel bone fractures. Stress fractures are tiny cracks resulting from repetitive activities like running or jumping. Metatarsal fractures involve the long bones of the foot and often occur due to direct trauma, twisting, or overuse. Calcaneal fractures typically result from high-impact injuries, such as falls from significant heights. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Treatment varies based on severity but may include rest, immobilization with a cast or brace, and targeted exercises. Severe fractures might require surgery. If you suspect a foot fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.