Why Some Ingrown Toenails Require Surgery

When a toenail grows into the surrounding skin and causes ongoing pain, foot surgery can provide lasting relief. This problem usually affects the big toe and can make even short walks uncomfortable. As the ingrown toenail presses deeper into the skin, the area becomes red, tender, and difficult to touch. Drainage or repeated infections may return after temporary improvement. When the condition continues or keeps coming back, a podiatrist can examine the toe, explain the cause, and determine whether surgery is the best treatment. Surgery removes the part of the nail causing the problem, and in some cases, the entire nail is removed. A podiatrist also decides whether to treat the area where the toenail grows to help prevent the ingrown toenail from coming back. 

Before recommending surgery, the podiatrist reviews your health history and examines the toe carefully. This helps in choosing the treatment that offers the best chance for healing, while also reducing the risk of future problems. Ingrown toenail surgery is usually performed with a local anesthetic, which numbs the toe while the patient remains awake. The procedure generally takes only a few minutes, and most patients return home the same day. Depending on the condition of the toe, the podiatrist removes part of the nail or the entire nail. Medication can be used to prevent the troublesome section of the nail from growing back. 

Recovery includes protecting the treated toe and following the podiatrist's instructions carefully. Mild discomfort, swelling, and tenderness are expected while the area heals. Like any procedure, surgery includes possible risks. These include bleeding, infection, and scarring. In some cases, the ingrown toenail returns and another procedure becomes necessary. Most patients experience significant relief once healing is complete and can return to normal daily activities after their podiatrist says it is safe. If you have an extremely painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if surgery is the right choice for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Glen Beede, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle. 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 Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Morton's Neuroma Defined

Morton's neuroma is a compressive neuropathy that affects a nerve in the forefoot, most commonly located between the third and fourth toes. It develops when the nerve becomes irritated, compressed, and thickened due to repeated pressure and friction. This condition is not a tumor, but rather a response to ongoing mechanical stress within the intermetatarsal space. Common causes include wearing tight-fitting shoes, high-heeled footwear, and structural foot imbalances. Over time, this constant irritation leads to inflammation of the nerve, resulting in discomfort that can interfere with daily movement and physical activity.

Symptoms of Morton's neuroma often begin gradually and may increase in intensity if left untreated. Individuals frequently report a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot, along with tingling or numbness that may extend into the toes. A common description includes the sensation of stepping on a small pebble or feeling a fold in the sock. Pain may worsen during walking, prolonged standing, or while wearing narrow shoes that compress the forefoot. Relief may occur temporarily when shoes are removed or the foot is massaged.

The entrapment theory explains that the nerve becomes compressed between the metatarsal bones and surrounding ligaments, leading to thickening and increased sensitivity. This repeated compression creates a cycle of irritation and inflammation. Risk factors include high impact sports, wearing improper footwear, and biomechanical conditions such as flat feet or high arches. Women are more frequently affected due to footwear that places additional pressure on the forefoot.

Early recognition and proper management can reduce symptoms and prevent further progression. Wearing supportive shoes, modifying activities, and maintaining proper foot care can help relieve pressure on the affected nerve. Addressing the underlying cause is essential for long term improvement. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Glen Beede, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

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Corns on the Feet and When to See a Podiatrist

Corns on the feet develop when the skin thickens to protect itself from repeated pressure or friction. They most often appear on the top and sides of the toes or on weight-bearing areas of the feet. Unlike calluses, corns are usually smaller and have a hard center that can press into deeper tissue, making them painful when standing or walking. Tight-fitting shoes, toe deformities, and changes in the way you walk can all increase the risk of developing corns. Symptoms include tenderness, discomfort, or a small area of thickened skin that becomes painful with pressure. Although corns may seem minor at first, ongoing irritation can make daily activities more difficult if they are left untreated.

 

A podiatrist can determine whether a corn is causing your symptoms or if another foot condition is responsible. During an evaluation, the podiatrist examines the affected area, checks your foot structure, and looks for causes of repeated pressure. Treatment may include carefully removing thickened skin and reducing pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist may recommend medical devices or footwear modifications when appropriate. Professional care is especially important for people with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet because foot problems may become more serious without proper treatment. Early care can also help improve comfort and prevent recurring irritation.

 

Ignoring painful corns may lead to continued discomfort and increased stress on other parts of the foot. Receiving prompt corn treatment, foot pain treatment, and podiatry care can improve comfort and support healthy movement. Early treatment also helps address the underlying cause of repeated pressure to reduce the risk of recurring corns. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan based on your individual needs to help protect your long-term foot health. If you have painful corns or ongoing foot discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Glen Beede, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses

Get Proper Treatment for Ankle Injuries

If you're experiencing ankle pain, you may be suffering from an ankle injury. Sprains, fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and Achilles tendon ruptures are just some examples of potential ankle injuries. Don't wait for care for an ankle injury, as it may worsen over time. We can help!

Understanding Foot Sprains

A foot sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. A ligament is a strong band of tissue that connects bones and helps keep joints stable. Most foot sprains happen when the foot twists unexpectedly, lands awkwardly, or remains planted while the body turns. Sports, dancing, and other activities that require quick changes in direction are common causes. A mid-foot sprain affects the center of the foot and can make movement difficult because this area helps support body weight. Sprains are generally grouped into three grades. Grade I involves small tears. Grade II involves larger tears. Grade III occurs when a ligament is completely torn or separated from the bone.

Symptoms of a sprained foot include pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Many people have discomfort while walking and notice reduced strength when pushing off the foot. More severe injuries can make it difficult to place weight on the foot. Some patients also experience instability, meaning the foot feels weak or unsteady. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury with a physical examination and imaging tests. These are used to evaluate damage to soft tissues, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support movement and stability.

Recovery depends on the severity of the injury. Treatment often includes a brace, walking boot, or crutches to protect the foot while healing. As pain and swelling improve, patients gradually return to normal activities. Rehabilitation exercises are frequently recommended to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Supportive shoes with firm soles can help stabilize the foot while walking. More severe sprains sometimes require surgery to restore stability and proper alignment. Following a treatment plan carefully can improve healing and reduce the risk of future injuries. If you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Glen Beede, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle. 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 Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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