An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include wearing poor footwear that places pressure on the toes, irregularly shaped nails, toenail thickening, and improper trimming techniques. This condition can become more severe if left untreated, making walking uncomfortable and increasing the risk of complications. A podiatrist can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail, treat infections, and provide guidance on proper trimming and footwear to prevent recurrence. If you have discomfort or signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert treatment and lasting relief.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our clinicians from The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists 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 Weybridge, UK. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Fungal infections of the toenails often begin subtly, with slight color changes or surface irregularities, but can progress to thick, brittle, and uncomfortable nails. Because the infection develops beneath the nail plate, it can be challenging to clear without targeted intervention. A podiatrist may suggest medicated creams, prescription tablets, or procedures to reduce nail thickness so treatment can reach the source more effectively. In persistent cases, advanced methods such as laser therapy may be used to disrupt fungal growth. Maintaining clean, dry feet and choosing footwear that allows airflow are important steps in lowering the risk of recurrence. Addressing the problem early improves the chance of restoring healthy nails and preventing further spread. If you observe ongoing changes in your toenails or suspect an infection, it is suggested that you arrange an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with of our clinicians from The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions, such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

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An acute ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries, often occurring during sports, exercise, or even a simple misstep. It happens when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, usually due to the foot rolling inward or outward suddenly. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. While some sprains may feel minor, they should not be ignored. Without proper treatment, repeated ankle injuries can lead to chronic instability and long-term joint problems. Initial care may include rest, compression, and elevation, but professional evaluation is important to rule out fractures or more severe ligament damage.. If you have suffered an acute ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our clinicians from The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

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Heel pain can interfere with daily activity and mobility. In many cases, heel pain develops from overuse, repetitive stress, or wearing footwear that lacks adequate support. Running on hard surfaces, sudden increases in activity, or tightness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can also contribute to this type of pain. Injuries, such as a heel bone fracture from a fall or hard landing, may also be factors. Conditions, including plantar fasciitis, bursitis, Achilles tendon inflammation, or the growth of bone spurs, can further lead to tenderness, stiffness, and swelling at the heel. Pain may be felt under the heel, at the back of the heel, or along the Achilles tendon, depending on the underlying cause. A podiatrist can provide a full evaluation, offer proper treatment, and determine whether imaging or surgery may be needed. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our clinicians from The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes              
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

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