Items filtered by date: May 2025

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Soaking the foot in warm water with Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and soften the nail. Keeping the foot clean and dry afterward is essential. Gently lifting the nail edge with a clean piece of cotton or dental floss may relieve pressure, but this should only be attempted in mild cases. Wearing tight shoes or socks can worsen the condition and should be avoided. Mild pain relievers may help with discomfort. If the area becomes increasingly red, warm, or begins to drain pus, these are signs of infection. Recurrent or severe ingrown toenails may require a minor in-office procedure to remove part of the nail or the nail root. If home care is not effective, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for safe and lasting treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy affects the feet when damaged nerves disrupt normal sensation and muscle function. People may experience burning, tingling, numbness, weakness, or have difficulty walking. Peripheral neuropathy is often linked to diabetes, autoimmune diseases, infections, or exposure to toxins. Loss of sensation in the feet can increase the risk of injuries. Motor nerve damage may cause muscle weakness or foot drop, an inability to fully lift your foot when walking. Diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy typically involves a neurological exam, blood tests, and nerve studies to evaluate nerve function and identify underlying causes. Managing the root condition, such as improving blood sugar control or addressing nutritional deficiencies, is important to prevent further nerve damage. A podiatrist can assist by diagnosing foot-specific neuropathy, providing guidance to protect the feet, and recommending supportive devices to improve balance. If you have noticed a lack of sensation in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that commonly affects the big toe, although it can impact the ankles and other joints as well. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood, forming sharp crystals that deposit in the joints. Common causes include a diet high in purines found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol, obesity, dehydration, and certain medications. Symptoms of gout include sudden, intense pain, swelling, and redness, often making the affected joint feel hot and tender. The pain can be excruciating, often starting at night and making movement or even the touch of a blanket unbearable. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing flare-ups with medications, and offering strategies for long-term relief. Treatment options include medication to lower uric acid levels, anti-inflammatory drugs, and lifestyle changes, such as a diet low in purines, staying hydrated, and maintaining a healthy weight. Custom orthotics may also relieve pressure during flare-ups. If you have this painful condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that affects the nails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. One specific type of fungal infection is called tinea unguium, which is caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. Causes of toenail fungus infections include walking barefoot in communal areas, wearing tight shoes, or having minor nail or skin injuries that allow fungi to enter. Risk factors increase with age, a weakened immune system, diabetes, poor circulation, or a history of athlete's foot. Symptoms of toenail fungus include yellowing or whitening of the nail, crumbly edges, distorted nail shape, and a foul odor. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.