Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. They are often caused by improper trimming, tight footwear, trauma, or genetic predisposition. An ingrown toenail may look red, swollen, or infected, and in severe cases, pus or drainage may be present. Many individuals experience pain, tenderness, or a throbbing sensation along the affected nail, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the big toe and can recur if not properly managed. A podiatrist can start by examining the nail and surrounding tissue to assess the severity and rule out infection. Treatment options include careful trimming, nail-lifting techniques, and medicated dressings. In chronic cases, partial nail removal or minor surgical procedures are required to prevent recurrence. Early professional care can help to reduce pain, prevent infection, and support healthy nail growth. If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection around a toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners 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 Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Resistance bands are elastic tools that can be used to strengthen the muscles of the feet and ankles. These bands come in varying levels of resistance, allowing for gradual strengthening of the smaller stabilizing muscles that support balance, arch structure, and gait control. Exercises using resistance bands, such as foot flexes, toe curls, and ankle rotations, help improve flexibility, coordination, and joint stability. They are also useful for those recovering from foot injuries or seeking to prevent strain from repetitive movements. By maintaining proper form during each exercise, the muscles of the feet can become stronger, which supports better movement and reduces the risk of overuse injuries. A podiatrist can assess foot mechanics, identify muscle weakness, and recommend the most effective exercises for specific needs. For guidance on resistance band exercises for the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioners to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Off-loading is essential for helping diabetic foot wounds heal because it reduces pressure on the ulcerated area. People with diabetic neuropathy often lose sensation in their feet, so they continue to walk on a wound without realizing it, which damages new tissue and delays recovery. A podiatrist can use specialized off-loading techniques to remove pressure from the affected area. This can involve therapeutic shoes, custom insoles, padded dressings, removable cast boots, or total contact casts that closely fit the foot and restrict joint motion. These approaches protect the wound from repetitive stress and shear forces, giving tissue the time it needs to repair. When necessary, surgery can also be performed to correct deformities or redistribute pressure to prevent recurrence. Consistent podiatric care ensures the wound remains clean and healing is monitored. If you have a diabetic foot wound, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment, including off-loading management.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are common in football due to sudden changes in direction, tackles, uneven surfaces, and high-impact movements. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. Sprains are classified by severity. First degree involves mild ligament stretching with minimal swelling and usually recovers within one to two weeks. Second degree includes partial ligament tears, moderate swelling and bruising, and may take three to six weeks to heal. Third degree is a complete tear, causing severe pain, instability, and requiring six to twelve weeks or longer for recovery. A podiatrist can assess the injury, provide bracing or supportive devices, recommend rehabilitation exercises, and guide a safe return to play. If you have sustained an ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer effective treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakeside Foot and Ankle Center. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Leesburg and The Villages, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.