Items filtered by date: December 2019

A condition that is referred to as an ingrown toenail typically affects the big toe. It happens as a result of the sides of the toenail growing into the skin surrounding it, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The symptoms that often accompany ingrown toenails can consist of redness, swelling, or a possible discharge at the edge of the nail. There are a variety of reasons why this condition may develop. These can include trimming the toenails improperly, wearing shoes that are too tight, or having a toe injury. Moderate relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, followed by using a small piece of cotton to gently push the affected nail away from the skin. Additionally, it generally helps to wear shoes that are larger in the toe area, as this may help to accelerate the healing process. If you have an ingrown toenail that has become infected, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition, which may include surgery for removal of the nail.

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. Dushack of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Fort Myers and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

The uncomfortable condition that is known as cracked heels comes from excessively dry skin. It typically affects the outer edges of the heel, and can cause deep cracks to form. These cracks in the skin are known as fissures, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. There are common reasons why this condition may occur. These can include standing for an extended period of time throughout the day, as well as wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, existing medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may lead to the development of cracked heels. Treatment can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by using a good moisturizer several times per day. It may help to wear shoes that have significant cushioning in the heel area. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Dushack from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Patients who experience the pain and discomfort from plantar fasciitis may be interested in receiving shockwave therapy. Typical symptoms of this condition can include severe pain upon arising in the morning, and difficulty walking and performing daily activities. It is a treatment that consists of applying low energy acoustic waves to the affected area. Research has indicated it may accelerate the natural healing process, and may reduce chronic pain that is associated with many foot conditions. After a large amount of gel is applied to the affected area, an applicator is easily rolled over the injury, and the tissues can begin to be regenerated. If you have chronic foot pain, it is strongly suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can help you to determine if shockwave therapy is correct for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Dushack from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who enjoy running are generally aware of the importance of choosing the right running shoe. These types of shoes fall into different categories based on running style. Additionally, for heavier runners, it is helpful to select shoes that have added stability. Research has indicated that determining how often running is practiced can help you to choose the correct shoe style. If your style of running includes exposure to mountains or trails, it may be beneficial to choose shoes that have additional traction. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine which type of running shoe is best for you.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. Dushack from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our offices located in Fort Myers and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.