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Ingrown toenail surgery is a procedure used to treat a toenail that grows into the surrounding skin, usually along the nail edge of the big toe. This condition can cause pain when walking or wearing shoes. Other symptoms include redness and swelling around the nail. In more advanced cases, drainage or infection may develop. Risk factors include trimming nails too short, wearing tight footwear, and injuring the toe. Although mild cases may improve with conservative care, persistent or infected ingrown toenails may require surgery to relieve pressure and prevent recurring problems.

A podiatrist usually begins by examining the toe and checking for signs of infection. If surgery is necessary, the toe is numbed with a local anesthetic to keep the procedure comfortable. One option is a wedge resection, in which the podiatrist removes the narrow section of nail growing into the skin. Partial toenail removal preserves most of the nail while relieving pressure. In more severe cases, complete toenail removal may be recommended, although it is not always necessary. The choice depends on the nail condition and whether the problem keeps returning.

For recurring ingrown toenails, a podiatrist may perform a matrixectomy. This procedure treats part of the nail matrix, the tissue responsible for nail growth, to help prevent the affected edge from growing back. Chemical treatment or another method may be used. Tip-of-toe surgery is less common and may be considered for selected severe cases involving persistent tissue problems. After treatment, the podiatrist applies a dressing and explains how to clean and protect the toe. Healing recommendations include limiting pressure and attending follow-up visits.

Most patients return to normal activities gradually as tenderness improves. Keeping the toe clean and wearing roomy shoes can support recovery. If you have an ingrown toenail that causes ongoing pain or signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who may discuss the benefits of this type of surgery with you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor 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 office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a circulation disorder that develops when arteries supplying blood to the legs and feet become narrowed or blocked. Reduced blood flow can affect how tissues receive oxygen and nutrients. PAD can develop gradually, so some people do not notice symptoms at first. When symptoms occur, they may include leg or foot pain while walking that improves with rest. Cold feet, numbness, or changes in skin color can also occur. Foot wounds may heal slowly when circulation is reduced.

Several factors can increase the risk of PAD. Smoking is a major risk factor because it damages blood vessels and contributes to artery narrowing. The risk also increases with age and certain health conditions that affect circulation. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can contribute to artery disease. Diabetes is another important risk factor because it can damage blood vessels and nerves. A family history of cardiovascular disease may also increase susceptibility. Recognizing these factors can encourage earlier evaluation.

A podiatrist may examine your feet for changes in skin color, temperature, or wounds. Pulses in the feet can be checked to assess blood flow. If PAD is suspected, your podiatrist may recommend an ankle-brachial index or other vascular testing. Treatment focuses on improving circulation and reducing complications. Severe blockages may require procedures to restore blood flow.

PAD deserves attention because reduced circulation can affect foot health and wound healing. Pay attention to persistent foot discomfort or changes that do not improve. Early evaluation can help identify circulation problems before complications develop. A podiatrist can also help monitor your feet and coordinate care, when needed. If you have symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management tips.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room were spinning around you can signal a balance problem. Balance can become less reliable with age, but dizziness is not a normal change that should be ignored. Inner-ear disorders, medical conditions, and certain medications can affect steadiness. Foot pain, numbness, and muscle weakness can also make it harder to sense the ground or respond to a misstep. These problems can increase the risk of falling and reduce a person’s confidence in everyday activities.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and ankles for problems that affect stability. The evaluation includes checking joint movement, muscle strength, and sensation. The podiatrist can also study how the patient stands and moves when walking. Painful arthritis, fallen arches, or an earlier ankle injury can change the way weight passes through the feet. Nerve damage can reduce awareness of pressure and position. Thick toenails, corns, or calluses can also make each step painful and less secure. Identifying these concerns helps the podiatrist recommend care that addresses the patient’s specific fall risks.

Treatment can focus on improving comfort, support, and control. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics to improve foot position or redistribute pressure. Wearing shoes with low heels, nonslip soles, and a secure fit can help patients maintain contact with the ground. A brace may improve stability when ankle weakness is present. The podiatrist can also treat painful skin and nail problems that interfere with a steady step. Patients should report recent falls and changes in sensation, even when no injury is visible. Regular foot examinations can identify new concerns before they further limit safe movement. If you have fallen and injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor 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 office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain on top of the foot can make walking and exercising uncomfortable. This area contains bones, joints, and ligaments that can become irritated or injured. Causes include stress fractures, sprains, and tendinitis. Symptoms vary by problem, but pain, swelling, and stiffness may occur. Pain that increases with activity or continues during rest deserves attention, especially when it affects movement and daily activities.

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated pressure. Athletes and others who suddenly increase activity have greater risk. A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn, often after twisting the foot. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common. Arthritis involves inflammation or degeneration within a joint. Risk factors include age and previous injuries. Tendinitis develops when a tendon becomes irritated from repeated use. Active people and those with sudden training changes may be more vulnerable.

A podiatrist starts by discussing symptoms, activities, and injury history. The foot is examined for tenderness, stiffness, and movement changes. X-rays may help identify fractures or arthritis. Other imaging may be recommended. Treatment depends on the diagnosis. A stress fracture may require activity restriction and a walking boot. A sprain may need rest and support, and arthritis treatment may include wearing supportive footwear. Tendinitis may require reduced activity while the tendon heals.

Getting the correct diagnosis is important because different causes of pain on top of the foot require different care. Activities that increase pain can delay healing or worsen an injury. A podiatrist can monitor recovery and help you return to normal activity. Seek prompt evaluation when pain is severe, swelling develops, or you cannot walk comfortably. If you have pain on top of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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