Items filtered by date: October 2024

Partial nail avulsion is a surgical procedure used to treat ingrown toenails, a condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation. This procedure involves the removal of the affected portion of the toenail to alleviate discomfort and prevent recurrence. During the procedure, a podiatrist first administers a local anesthetic to numb the toe, ensuring minimal discomfort. Once the area is numb, the doctor carefully lifts the ingrown edge of the nail and removes it, allowing the surrounding tissue to heal. In some cases, a chemical agent may be applied to prevent the nail from growing back in an ingrown manner. Recovery typically involves keeping the area clean and dry, with follow-up care to monitor healing. This treatment can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from painful ingrown toenails. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of minor foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . 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 office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arch on the inside of the foot is lower than usual. Many children have flat feet until they are about five to eight years old, when natural development of the foot’s arch typically begins. By the age of 10, only about four percent of children still have flat feet. There are two main types, flexible and rigid flatfoot. Flexible flatfoot is common and usually painless, allowing an arch to appear when standing on tiptoes. In contrast, rigid flatfoot is less common, often causing stiffness and pain due to abnormal bone structure. While flexible flat feet rarely require treatment, rigid flatfoot may require an evaluation. A podiatrist can assess the condition, suggest supportive footwear, and if necessary, prescribe custom orthotics to ease discomfort. If your child has problematic flatfoot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Foot pain is a common issue among cyclists, often stemming from improper bike fit or inadequate footwear. One prevalent type of pain is hot feet, which occurs when blood flow is restricted due to wearing tight shoes or poor positioning on the pedals. This sensation can lead to discomfort and fatigue during long rides. Another common complaint is arch pain, often caused by insufficient arch support in cycling shoes, leading to strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally, pain in the ball of the foot, or metatarsalgia, can result from pressure on the forefoot, especially when cycling in a forward-leaning position. Understanding these types of foot pain is essential for cyclists to make necessary adjustments, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. If you enjoy cycling and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you advice and relief tips.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Determining if orthotics can help you often starts by evaluating signs of imbalance or improper foot mechanics. If your shoes wear unevenly, typically on one side, it can indicate poor alignment or overpronation, both of which orthotics can address. Frequent ankle sprains suggest instability that orthotics can help stabilize. Chronic foot, heel, knee, or low back pain may stem from improper foot function, and custom orthotics can provide support and improve alignment, relieving pressure on joints. If your toes are not straight or your feet point excessively inward or outward, orthotics may correct these issues by guiding your feet into proper alignment. If you think you might benefit from orthotics, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation, foot and gait analysis, and determination if orthotics are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are benign growths that develop on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They appear as small, rough, and grainy lesions, often with tiny black dots inside, which are small blood vessels. These warts can be painful, especially when pressure is applied, such as while walking or standing. Plantar warts are typically spread in warm, moist environments like swimming pools or locker rooms, where the virus can easily enter through small cuts or abrasions in the skin. In some cases, treatments like cryotherapy, freezing, or laser therapy may be recommended. For persistent or painful plantar warts, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore treatment options and receive professional care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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