An ingrown toenail can cause pain, swelling, and even infection, if left untreated. The removal procedure is simple and typically performed in a podiatrist’s office. After numbing the area, the podiatrist will carefully remove the ingrown portion of the nail. In some cases, a small part of the nail matrix may be treated to prevent future problems. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes. Afterward, you can expect soreness for a day or two, which is easily managed with mild pain relievers. The podiatrist will provide detailed instructions on keeping the area clean and dry to avoid infection. Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two, wearing open-toed shoes for comfort. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for relief options.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Planning a trip to Europe or one of America’s historic cities? Destinations like Rome, Prague, Paris, Lisbon, Boston, and New York’s older neighborhoods are famous for their charming cobblestone streets. But while these streets are beautiful, they can be tough on your feet, especially if you are wearing high heels. Walking on uneven cobblestones in narrow or unsupportive shoes increases your risk of ankle sprains, foot fractures, falls, blisters, and foot pain. High heels put added pressure on the balls of your feet and toes, and, on bumpy ground, they offer little stability. If you are traveling to these destinations, choose supportive shoes with low, wide heels or cushioned flats that can handle uneven terrain. Before you go, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can recommend the best footwear and custom orthotics to keep your feet comfortable and injury-free during your travels.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Wearing properly fitted shoes is essential for foot health and overall comfort. To determine the correct shoe size, start by measuring both feet in the evening when they are likely to be at their largest. Place a sheet of paper on a hard floor and stand with full weight evenly distributed. Trace the outline of each foot and measure the length from the heel to the longest toe. Measuring the width at the widest part of the foot provides additional accuracy. Compare these measurements with a reliable sizing chart, keeping in mind that sizes may vary between brands. Ensuring a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the shoe’s edge prevents crowding. Selecting shoes that match both length and width measurements helps maintain comfort and reduce foot-related issues. Foot pain can develop from wearing the wrong size shoes. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, in addition to providing help in determining your correct shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Toenail fungus is a common problem that many people face. It occurs when a fungus infects the nail, causing thickening, discoloration, and an unpleasant smell. The nail may become brittle, crumbling, or separated from the nail bed. This condition usually develops slowly and might go unnoticed until it worsens. Poor hygiene, damp environments, and minor injuries to the nail can contribute to its development. Over time, the fungus may spread to other nails and parts of the foot. Preventing the spread involves keeping feet clean and dry, wearing well-ventilated shoes, and avoiding sharing nail clippers. Early treatment can stop the infection from progressing and ease discomfort. For any ongoing issues or severe cases, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that results in pain at the bottom of the foot, typically near the heel and arch. This pain often feels like a stabbing or bruising sensation, and may be most intense during the first steps in the morning. For some patients, the discomfort can also occur after standing for long periods of time, or when standing up after sitting for an extended time. Pain from plantar fasciitis may vary in intensity, with severe cases causing significant discomfort during daily activities. Risk factors include having flat feet, high arches, wearing unsupportive footwear, and standing for prolonged periods. Age, specific occupations, and certain pre-existing foot conditions can also contribute to the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, identify the underlying causes, and provide effective treatment, such as custom orthotics or other methods to reduce stress on the plantar fascia and alleviate pain. If you have heel pain related to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin  from Florida. 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?

• 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 Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.