Dallas (214) 340-8885
Athens (903) 677-9090
Gun Barrel City (903) 887-4341
Dallas (214) 340-8885
Athens (903) 677-9090
Gun Barrel City (903) 887-4341
Ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis) are a common foot ailment and it is very unpleasant to experience. The condition is caused by an increase in pressure from the ingrowth of the nail edge into the skin of the toe. Ingrown toenails commonly cause pain in those who experience them. In some cases, the skin surrounding the ingrown toenail may break which may lead bacteria to enter through and cause an infection. Common symptoms of this ailment include pain, redness, swelling, and warmth around the toe.
An imbalance between the size of the nail and the enlargement of the nail skin edge causes ingrown toenails. This condition is often caused by improperly trimming the toenails. If you are trying you cut your nails, you should always try to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. Ingrown toenails can also be an inherited condition and they may also be caused by improper shoe fitting.
Another common cause of the condition is wearing shoes that are either too small or too large. Other causes include poor foot hygiene, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, edema, and fungal infections. There are many risk factors that may make a person more likely to develop an ingrown toenail. Athletes who play “stop and start” sports such as tennis, soccer, and basketball are most likely to have ingrown toenails.
People who have diabetes, a compromised immune system, or poor circulation should immediately seek care from a podiatrist if they have an ingrown toenail. It is also recommended to seek professional assistance if at-home remedies are not successful within a week or if there is persistent pain.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail of the big toe grows into the surrounding nail bed instead of over it. The main symptom of an ingrown toenail is pain, especially when wearing tight shoes and socks or putting pressure on the toe. If left untreated, the area around the ingrown toenail can become inflamed and red, while fluid builds up as a protective measure. If infected, white or yellow pus may form. The major cause of an ingrown toenail is improper foot care, particularly when the toenails are cut too short or rounded on the edges instead of straight across. Other causes are wearing shoes and socks that are too tight, an injury like stubbing the toe, or sweaty feet. Prevention of an ingrown toenail begins with keeping your feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and cutting toenails straight across. Next, wear comfortable shoes that allow the toes to move around rather than being squeezed together. If an ingrown toenail becomes too painful or infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the best treatment.
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. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. 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
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 one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Elderly Americans are very susceptible to falls as they get older. Everyone experiences decreases in flexibility, balance, strength, and the senses as they age. This correlates to some eye-opening statistics. 1 in 4 Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. An elderly American is being treated for a fall in an emergency room every 11 seconds. In light of these striking statistics, one can see the importance of taking steps to prevent falls.
Finding an exercise program for the elderly is an excellent way to reduce the likelihood of falls. Look for an exercise program that improves strength and balance. Elderly people who live a more sedentary lifestyle, with little physical activity, are at an increased risk of falling. Wearing well-fitted footwear that provides good foot support and cushion will help prevent falls from poorly fitted shoes. Talking to a podiatrist about your susceptibility to falls and about inspecting your prescriptions will help to avoid any medication that could make falls more likely. Due to a decline in the senses among the elderly, having your eyes and hearing checked is recommended.
Around half of all falls occur in the household. Removing tripping hazards in the home and making it more accommodating to older persons can significantly reduce falls. Some notable household changes include increasing lighting around the house, installing grab bars in the shower and bathroom, and making sure the floor is clear of clutter. Other smart options include installing a shower chair, using rubber-bottomed rugs, and placing railings on both sides of stairwells.
Finally, discuss with a doctor and your family about your fear of falling. This will help to increase awareness among the population on the need for fall prevention. A lack of awareness on the matter, and a downplaying of importance are what increase the risks of falling. Following these tips can help to reduce the risk for yourself and your loved ones.
Research has shown seniors may be more prone to falling in the colder months than at other times of the year. The body may change with the shorter days, and people may be uncomfortable in the fall and winter months. While walking outside, it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit well and have textured soles, such as sneakers. Fall prevention techniques can be implemented in the household, and can be effective in keeping the home safe. These can include putting brighter bulbs in the lighting fixtures and removing worn rugs from the living area. It is beneficial to clear away existing clutter, which can be a tripping hazard. Many people find it helpful to have grab bars installed in the shower and toilet area, in addition to using a bathmat. Having regular physical and eye examinations can be useful in updating current prescriptions and eyeglasses, and engaging in a gentle stretching routine can help the body to become stronger. If you have questions about additional fall prevention techniques to use, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Our feet are arguably the most important parts of our bodies because they are responsible for getting us from place to place. However, we often don’t think about our feet until they begin to hurt. If you have pain in your feet, you need to first determine where on the foot you are experiencing it to get to the root of the problem. The most common areas to feel pain on the foot are the heel and the ankle.
Heel pain is most commonly attributed to a condition called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, which is the band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. Plantar fasciitis pain is usually worse in the morning, and it tends to go away throughout the day. If you have plantar fasciitis, you should rest your foot and do heel and foot muscles stretches. Wearing shoes with proper arch support and a cushioned sole has also been proven to be beneficial.
Some common symptoms of foot pain are redness, swelling, and stiffness. Foot pain can be dull or sharp depending on its underlying cause. Toe pain can also occur, and it is usually caused by gout, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, sprains, fractures, and corns.
If you have severe pain in your feet, you should immediately seek assistance from your podiatrist for treatment. Depending on the cause of your pain, your podiatrist may give you a variety of treatment options.
The majority of people who have foot pain may suffer through their day, and seek relief when the pain and discomfort becomes worse. Foot pain may happen for a variety of reasons, including being overweight, having endured an injury, or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Additionally, the aging process can cause foot pain, and many elderly people find the need to rest their feet during the day. Foot pain can also be caused by bunions, hammertoe, or arthritis. Plantar fasciitis is a common reason to have foot pain, which affects the heel. Anyone who has suffered from a broken foot or who has had an ankle sprain may be all too familiar with foot pain. There are effective techniques that may help to prevent foot pain from developing, and it is helpful to learn about these before purchasing shoes or embarking on a new physical activity. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options, in addition to effective prevention methods.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Diabetics must be wary of all wounds, regardless of depth or size. Diabetes, a chronic disease in which the body cannot properly use glucose the way it normally would, causes various complications that make wounds difficult to heal. Nerve damage or neuropathy will cause diabetics to have trouble feeling the pain of a blister or cut until the condition has significantly worsened or become infected. A diabetic’s weakened immune system can make even the most minor of wounds easily susceptible to infection. Diabetics are also more prone to developing narrow, clogged arteries, and are therefore more likely to develop wounds.
Wounds should be taken care of immediately after discovery, as even the smallest of wounds can become infected if enough bacteria build up within the wound. To remove dirt, wounds should be first rinsed under running water only. Soap, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine can irritate the injury and should be avoided. To prevent infection, apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it with a bandage. The bandage should be changed daily. The skin around the wound may be cleaned with soap.
To prevent further exacerbation, see a doctor—especially if you have diabetes. Minor skin conditions can become larger problems if not properly inspected. As the wound heals, make sure to avoid applying pressure to the affected area.
A puncture wound can be a small hole in the foot that can be caused by stepping on a sharp, pointed object. It often produces discomfort, and the foot can also become bruised and swollen. Additionally, some patients have difficulty moving the affected area, and it is beneficial to seek medical attention. An animal bite also may cause a puncture wound, and an X-ray may be taken that can determine the depth of the wound. It is important that the wound is properly cleaned, and this can begin with removing existing dirt and debris. This can be followed by applying medicine to the wound, which may help to prevent a bacterial infection. Symptoms may be managed by frequently elevating the foot and keeping it above heart level. This is often effective in reducing swelling and pain that may be present. If you have additional questions about how to perform proper wound care for the foot, it is suggested that you ask a podiatrist who can help you with useful information.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The plantar fascia is a connective tissue in the heel that stretches across the bottom length of your foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the connective tissue becomes inflamed, causing heel pain and discomfort during physical activity. Although the condition is completely treatable, traditional methods can take up to a year to start becoming effective.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by a number of everyday activities, so understanding the condition is important for managing and treating it. One of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis is excessive running, especially with improper fitting or non-supportive shoes. Too much exercise can lead to the plantar fascia being overworked and overstretched, which can cause tears in the tissue. Along with improper fitting shoes, pronation, the rolling of the feet inward, is a common cause of plantar fasciitis. If not treated properly, the plantar fascia becomes overstretched and starts to tear, causing inflammation.
Despite the common causes of plantar fasciitis, there are many different treatment options. For less severe cases, conservative home remedies include taking anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain, applying ice packs to the bottom of your foot and heel, slowly stretching and exercising your feet to re-strengthen the tissue, and using orthotic devices are all ways to help manage your plantar fasciitis.
For more severe cases, shockwave therapy has become a common solution for plantar fasciitis. Shockwave therapy can effectively break up the tissue on the bottom of your foot which facilitates healing and regeneration. This fights the chronic pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Even if this doesn’t work, surgery is always a final option. Surgery on the tissue itself can be done to permanently correct the issue and stop the inflammation and pain in your heels.
No matter what the case may be, consulting your podiatrist is the first and best step to recovery. Even the slightest amount of heel pain could be the first stage of plantar fasciitis. Untreated symptoms can lead to the tearing and overstretching of tissue. Because the tearing of tissue can be compounded if it remains ignored, it can evolve into a severe case. The solution is early detection and early treatment. Talk to your podiatrist about the possibilities of plantar fasciitis if you’re experiencing heel pain.
The plantar fascia is found on the sole of the foot. It is the band of tissue that connects the toes to the heel, and it is instrumental in pointing and flexing the foot. An injury or overuse can cause this tissue to become torn or irritated, which may lead to getting plantar fasciitis. Patients who are afflicted with this condition often have difficulty in walking, and will seek the advice of a medical professional for relief. The pain is felt in the heel which can cause severe discomfort. Runners may be prone to developing plantar fasciitis as a result of the repeated force the heels endure as well. It can also develop from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or that have minimum cushion support. Effective stretches can help the foot feel better. These can include the calf stretch which is done by standing on a step while lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
