October 2019

An ingrown toenail is a fairly common ailment that many patients experience. It is the result of the toenail growing into the skin. This can develop for several reasons, including wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in, and trimming the toenails incorrectly. Some of the symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails can consist of severe pain, and the affected area may be swollen and red. Additionally, if the nail becomes infected, there may be a discharge that seeps from the nail. Moderate relief may be found when the foot is soaked in warm water, and this may help the skin to soften. At this point, it may become easier to gently pull the skin away from the embedded nail. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. 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 one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical term that is known as plantar hyperhidrosis is more commonly known as feet that sweat excessively. Patients who have this condition sweat without any exertion, and it may soak through their socks and shoes. Research has indicated it may be caused by overactive sweat glands, and can worsen under stressful situations. Relief may be found if specific medications are taken, and anxiety may be controlled by psychotherapy techniques. If you suffer from this ailment, it is important that you wear shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials, in addition to airing the feet out as frequently as possible. Please consult with a podiatrist if you are afflicted with plantar hyperhidrosis, so you can learn about possible treatment options.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many diabetic patients are aware of the importance of taking care of their feet. This typically includes looking for existing cuts, scrapes, or wounds on the soles of the feet. It is crucial to the health of the patient that any infection on the feet is avoided. Neuropathy is a common ailment among diabetic patients, and this condition limits the ability to feel if a cut is present. If it goes unnoticed, an infection may occur, and this can possibly lead to a foot ulcer. If there are wounds on the feet, it is important to frequently elevate them, as this may be helpful in reducing any existing swelling. If you are diabetic, it is important to be under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to properly manage your diabetic condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.