Ingrown toenails in babies occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and sometimes pain. This can happen due to improper nail trimming, wearing tight socks or shoes, or even a natural tendency for the nails to curve as they grow. To manage an ingrown toenail in your baby, soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the nail and skin. After soaking, gently massage the skin away from the nail. Avoid tight footwear, and keep the nails trimmed straight across without cutting too short. If you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge, or if the ingrown nail does not improve with mild care, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a more targeted treatment method.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pronation and supination are movements that describe how your feet interact with the ground as you walk or run, significantly affecting your overall alignment and posture. Pronation refers to the inward roll of your foot during movement, while supination involves an outward roll. Ideally, your foot should move through a neutral position, balancing weight evenly across your foot. However, excessive pronation or supination can lead to pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and even your lower back. Overpronation often flattens the foot’s arch, causing strain. Excessive supination increases pressure on the outer edge of the foot, potentially leading to shin splints or plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can assess your gait, identify abnormal patterns, and recommend custom orthotics or specific footwear to correct these imbalances. If you often experience foot problems, especially after exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, gait analysis, and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Orthotics are shoe inserts that support and align the foot, helping to address various conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or overpronation. They are made from various materials, including plastic, foam, and carbon fiber, which offer different levels of support and flexibility. Soft orthotics provide cushioning and are ideal for relieving pressure on sore spots, while rigid orthotics offer more structural support, beneficial for controlling motion in the joints. Semi-rigid orthotics strike a balance between comfort and support, making them versatile for various activities. Athletic shoes often come equipped with built-in arch supports and heel cups to enhance comfort and performance. These features help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reduce strain on the arches, and stabilize the heel during movement. Whether you need extra support for a specific condition or enhanced comfort during exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. This acid can crystallize and become lodged in the joints of the feet, particularly the big toe, leading to sudden and intense pain, swelling, and inflammation. Gout typically flares up and then goes away, only to flare up again. It can become a chronic condition if measures are not taken to prevent future flare-ups. Chronic gout can cause large, visible bumps, called tophi, to form in bones, joints, or cartilage. Tophi are made of urate crystals and are usually not painful unless they become infected or press on a nerve. But although they’re not painful in and of themselves, tophi are problematic because they can damage joints, destroy cartilage, and eventually lead to bone erosion, deformity, and disability. For more information about gout, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot is a term used to describe complications that affect the feet of individuals with diabetes. These complications arise from poor blood circulation and nerve damage, or neuropathy, caused by high blood sugar levels. As a result, minor injuries or sores can go unnoticed and become infected, leading to severe issues, such as ulcers or even amputation, if left untreated. Individuals at risk for diabetic foot include those with poorly controlled diabetes, a history of foot ulcers, or existing peripheral neuropathy. People with diabetes who smoke, have high blood pressure, or high cholesterol are also at increased risk due to impaired blood flow to the extremities. Treatment involves a comprehensive approach, including regular foot inspections, proper wound care, blood sugar management, and wearing appropriate footwear to prevent injury. In severe cases, medical interventions like debridement, antibiotics, or surgery may be required. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can counsel you on preventive care, provide routine check-ups, and treat any foot problems that may arise.

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 Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.