An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. In more severe cases, the area may become infected, with pus or drainage present. The condition often affects the big toe and can make walking or wearing shoes difficult. The most common causes of ingrown toenails are improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or trauma to the toe. Other factors, such as poor foot hygiene, abnormal nail growth, or hereditary factors, can also contribute to the condition. Treatment options for ingrown toenails vary depending on severity. In mild cases, soaking the foot and properly trimming the nail may provide relief. In more severe or recurring cases, a podiatrist may need to perform a procedure to remove part of the nail or realign it to prevent future issues. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to receive expert care and effective treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swelling in the feet and ankles can be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI, or heart failure, both of which affect circulation and fluid balance. CVI occurs when the veins in the legs cannot efficiently return blood to the heart, causing blood to pool, resulting in swelling, varicose veins, and pain. Heart failure, on the other hand, leads to fluid buildup throughout the body, including the feet, due to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively. Common symptoms of both conditions include swelling, heaviness, and discomfort in the feet and ankles, often worsened by prolonged standing or inactivity. Treatment for CVI may involve compression stockings, lifestyle changes, and medications, while heart failure may require managing underlying cardiovascular health. A podiatrist can play a critical role in managing foot symptoms associated with these conditions by recommending proper footwear, compression therapy, and providing guidance on exercises to improve circulation. If you experience persistent foot swelling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn. This often results from a sudden twist, misstep, or uneven surface. People with high arches, weak ankle muscles, or a history of previous sprains may be more prone to this injury. Ankle sprains are typically classified into three grades, mild, moderate, and severe, depending on severity of ligament damage. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight. More severe sprains can lead to ongoing discomfort and instability if not properly treated. A podiatrist plays a key role in diagnosing and managing ankle sprains by assessing the severity of the sprain and recommending appropriate treatment, including braces, exercises, or custom orthotics to support healing. Repeated sprains may increase the risk of chronic ankle instability. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot and ankle injuries are common in kids and teens, particularly those involved in sports or physical activities. Growth spurts, active play, and the demands of youth athletics place unique stress on developing bones, ligaments, and tendons. Common injuries include ankle sprains, heel pain, often from Sever’s disease, stress fractures, and overuse injuries from repetitive motion, such as running or jumping. Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse, causing heel pain and tenderness that often worsens with activity. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty in bearing weight. Treatment often involves rest, and a podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises or custom orthotics. If your child has incurred a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones, often caused by repetitive force or overuse, and commonly seen in athletes and active individuals. Factors contributing to foot stress fractures include sudden increases in physical activity, wearing inadequate footwear, and underlying conditions like osteoporosis. Symptoms typically include localized pain in the midfoot area that worsens with activity, swelling, and tenderness when pressure is applied. Patients may also notice bruising or discomfort during weight-bearing activities. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose stress fractures through a physical exam, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. This type of doctor may recommend orthotic devices or modified activities to promote healing. In some cases, a short period of immobilization may be necessary. Recovery can vary, but generally takes several weeks, with a gradual return to activity once healing is confirmed. If you suspect a stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.