July 2024

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Causes can include improper nail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or sustaining foot trauma. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can escalate, causing infection. Bacteria can enter through the broken skin, leading to pus formation and further inflammation. In severe cases, untreated infections may spread beyond the toe, causing cellulitis or even a bone infection. Chronic ingrown toenails can also lead to recurrent pain and discomfort, affecting daily activities. Proper toenail care, including trimming nails straight across and wearing well-fitted shoes, can help to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer safe and effective treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact John McGhan, DPM of Gold Canyon Foot & Ankle. 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 office located in Gold Canyon, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the band connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition often arises from overuse, such as repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping. It can also result from a sudden increase in exercise intensity, wearing poor footwear, or tight calf muscles. Symptoms can include pain and stiffness along the tendon, especially in the morning or after physical activity. Relief options focus on reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Resting the affected foot can alleviate pain and swelling. Taking anti-inflammatory medications can also help to provide additional relief. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises may restore flexibility and prevent future issues. Additionally, wearing supportive footwear and orthotics can also aid recovery. If you have pain in your heel and calf area, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat an Achilles tendon injury.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact John McGhan, DPM of Gold Canyon Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gold Canyon, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

 Diabetic foot ulcers are serious complications of diabetes, characterized by open sores or wounds that typically develop on the feet. They result from poor circulation, nerve damage, also called neuropathy, and impaired immune function associated with diabetes. Treatment involves meticulous wound care, which includes cleaning the ulcer with gentle soap and water, applying antibiotic ointment, and covering it with a sterile dressing. Offloading pressure from the affected foot is important to prevent further irritation and aid healing. Podiatrists can conduct regular exams to monitor ulcers, assess circulation, and provide guidance on footwear and hygiene. Timely intervention can prevent complications such as infections or amputations. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with John McGhan, DPM from Gold Canyon Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Flip-flops, though convenient, can be harsh on your feet, especially for individuals at risk like those with diabetes. The lack of support in flip-flops leads to improper heel strike, causing stress on the heels and increasing the risk of plantar fasciitis. Further, to keep the flip flops on, wearers often grip with their toes, which can cause muscle strain and negatively affect conditions like hammertoes. For people with diabetes, the minimal protection provided by flip-flops increases the risk of cuts, blisters, and infections due to decreased sensation and poor wound healing. Additionally, the flat design offers little or no arch support, leading to pain and discomfort in the feet and ankles. If you have foot pain as a result of wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief tips, in addition to guiding you on more favorable footwear choices.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact John McGhan, DPM from Gold Canyon Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to deviate toward the other toes. This misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the joint. Symptoms often include a pronounced bump on the side of the foot, discomfort while walking, and restricted movement of the big toe. Bunions are typically caused by inherited foot structure abnormalities, but they can also result from or made worse by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that compress the toes. High heels and narrow-toed shoes are common culprits. Other contributing factors include arthritis and prolonged pressure on the feet. Early intervention with proper footwear, orthotic devices, and, in severe cases, surgery can alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression. A bunion can be painful and unsightly. If you have developed this foot condition, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate relief treatment methods.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact John McGhan, DPM of Gold Canyon Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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