An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition most commonly affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. The primary cause of an ingrown toenail is improper nail trimming, especially cutting the nails too short or rounding the edges. Wearing tight shoes that squeeze the toes together can also contribute, increasing pressure on the toenails. Several risk factors can make a person more prone to developing an ingrown toenail, including poor foot hygiene, a family history of the condition, and injuries to the toe. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail typically include pain, tenderness, swelling, and sometimes an infection surrounding the nail. In severe cases, pus may form, and the area may become red and inflamed. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.

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. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony enlargement that develops at the base of the big toe, often caused when the top of the toe angles toward the others. This misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty walking. Other symptoms include irritated skin over the bump or stiffness in the joint. Bunions can develop due to genetics, foot structure, or wearing shoes like high heels that squeeze the toes or shift weight toward the forefoot. Bunions are diagnosed through physical examination, questions about symptoms and footwear, and sometimes X-rays to assess the joint’s alignment. Treatment focuses on reducing discomfort and improving foot function. A podiatrist can recommend footwear that minimizes pressure, as well as prescribe orthotic devices like splints or pads to improve alignment and provide cushioning. In more severe cases, this foot doctor may discuss surgery to restore joint alignment. If you have a problematic bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor 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 office located in Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, and osteoarthritis, OA, both affect the joints of the feet, toes, and ankles, but are distinct in their causes and progression. RA is a disorder where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness that can affect both feet symmetrically. Over time, this can result in joint deformities and decreased mobility. OA is a degenerative condition caused by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to bones rubbing against each other. This wear and tear often results in extreme pain, swelling, and the development of bony growths, which may affect one foot more than the other. Risk factors for RA include family history and being female, while OA is more common with age, obesity, or previous joint injuries. A podiatrist can manage arthritis in the feet, by determining the type of arthritis, recommending appropriate footwear, and suggesting options to reduce pain and preserve joint function. If you have foot problems resulting from arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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