Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or an inherited abnormal nail shape. In some cases, trauma or injury to the toe can also contribute to the condition. When conservative treatments, such as soaking the foot or using topical antibiotics, do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary to address the issue. There are different types of ingrown toenail surgery, with the most common being partial nail avulsion, where a portion of the nail is removed to relieve pressure and allow healing. Another procedure, known as matrixectomy, involves removing the nail root to prevent the ingrown toenail from recurring. If you have an ingrown toenail that is causing pain and discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of this type of foot surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer-like shape. It typically affects the second, third, or fourth toes. The condition develops when the muscles and tendons in the toe become imbalanced, often due to wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes, genetics, or certain foot abnormalities. The primary symptoms of hammertoe include pain or discomfort, especially when walking or wearing shoes, along with visible deformity in the toe. Calluses or corns may also develop due to abnormal pressure points. Treatment for hammertoe depends on its severity. Early stages may be managed with non-surgical options like switching to proper footwear, using toe pads, or performing stretching and strengthening exercises. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the deformity. This type of doctor can provide a thorough evaluation and offer a tailored treatment plan to relieve pain and prevent further deformity. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that causes pain in the heel and along the bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. The pain may decrease after walking but can return after long periods of standing or physical activity. Common causes of plantar fasciitis include overuse, poor footwear, tight calf muscles, and abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches. Additionally, obesity, aging, and activities that place excessive pressure on the feet, like running or standing for long hours, can increase the risk of developing this painful condition. Plantar fasciitis can cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors 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?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

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 our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls are a significant concern for older adults, as they can lead to serious injuries and a decline in overall health. Several risk factors contribute to falls in this age group, including a fear of falling, which can limit mobility and lead to a decline in physical activity. Loss of strength and balance also increases the risk of falling, as muscles weaken with age. Poor vision, medications that cause dizziness, and environmental hazards such as slippery floors or poor lighting further elevate the risk. To prevent falls, older adults should engage in strength and balance exercises to maintain mobility and flexibility. Wearing proper footwear with a good grip can also help prevent slips. Removing hazards from the home, such as rugs or clutter, and installing grab bars in key areas can make the living environment safer. Regular eye exams and medication reviews are also important in reducing fall risks. If you have sustained a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions, and guide you on successful fall prevention tips.

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 one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors 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:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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 our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.