An ingrown toenail, a common yet uncomfortable condition, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This often happens on the big toenail. Typical signs include redness and swelling around the affected area, and pain and tenderness when pressure is applied to the toe. More severe cases may involve an infection, which is often indicated by pus or fluid buildup. Some people might also notice the skin next to the nail becoming harder or the nail itself appearing overly curved or thickened. These symptoms not only cause discomfort but can also restrict footwear choices and make walking or standing painful. Recognizing these signs early is important for seeking appropriate treatment to prevent the condition from worsening and to alleviate the discomfort it causes. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist, a foot doctor who can effectively treat this condition. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. 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 Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Dealing with acquired flat feet, also known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, or PTTD, requires looking into its causes and symptoms. PTTD is an acquired, progressive disease of the foot and ankle that is seen commonly in middle-aged patients. When the tibialis posterior muscle or tendon weakens or stretches, it may no longer support the foot's arch. This leads to arch collapse and discomfort, including midfoot tenderness, arch pain, and ankle swelling. Symptoms may also include difficulty standing on the toes and foot weakness. Treatments involve both conservative and surgical options depending on the severity of the condition. Wearing custom foot orthotics in your shoes and immobilizing the foot in a short-leg cast or boot to allow the tendon to heal properly may be needed. In severe cases, surgery may be required. If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to acquired flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor 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 Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A heel spur is a sharp, bony outgrowth often resulting from irritation of the plantar fascia, known as plantar fasciitis. Increased strain on the Achilles tendon can exacerbate this growth, either beneath the foot, a lower heel spur, or at the back of the heel, a rear heel spur. While visible on X-rays, heel spurs may not be apparent externally. Symptoms include stabbing heel pain, especially when weight is applied, particularly in the morning. Inflammation can cause swelling and warmth, sometimes accompanied by a visible protrusion. Though occasionally asymptomatic, heel spurs can significantly impact mobility and comfort. Common causes involve prolonged or uneven pressure during walking or running, leading to inflammation of the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Addressing these issues involves reducing strain, managing inflammation, and enhancing foot muscle strength. Appropriate footwear, weight management, and foot muscle activation are important preventive measures. If you are suffering from a painful heel spur, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and offer you treatment options fitting your situation.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Foot injuries are common among runners, and often stem from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or biomechanical issues. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and Achilles tendinitis are prevalent. Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain due to inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot. Stress fractures result from repetitive impact, leading to small cracks in the bones. Achilles tendinitis affects the Achilles tendon, causing pain and stiffness. To prevent these injuries, it is helpful for runners to practice prevention techniques, including wearing appropriate shoes with proper support and cushioning, increasing mileage gradually, and incorporating rest days into training schedules. Additionally, it is beneficial to perform strengthening and stretching exercises targeting the feet and lower legs. If you enjoy running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for professional guidance on foot protection from running.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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