Fairhope, Brewton, Atmore Phone (251) 928-6768
Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.
Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.
When home treatments fail to alleviate the pain and discomfort of an ingrown toenail, surgical intervention may become necessary. A podiatrist plays an essential role in diagnosing the severity of the ingrown toenail and recommending the most suitable treatment. Surgery for ingrown toenails is generally reserved for severe cases, especially if there's an infection or if the individual has a condition, like diabetes, that complicates healing. One common surgical procedure is the wedge resection, where a portion of the toenail is removed to prevent it from growing into the skin. In more extreme cases, a total toenail removal might be performed, which involves the complete removal of the nail to prevent recurrence. Another option, matrixectomy, involves the removal of the nail bed to stop future nail growth altogether. These procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia, allowing for quick recovery. After ingrown toenail surgery, maintaining a clean and dry wound is essential to prevent infection. If you have an ingrown toenail that is causing extreme pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is needed.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. 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
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 Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Ankle dislocations are serious injuries where the bones in this complex joint lose their proper alignment. An ankle dislocation usually involves the shin bone, or tibia, and the foot bone, or talus, coming apart. Often, this injury is accompanied by breaks in the lower parts of the shin bones and damage to the ligaments that keep the ankle stable. In rare cases, just the ligaments can be injured, causing dislocation. These injuries are typically caused by trauma such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. The direction of dislocation depends on how the foot is positioned and the force applied. For example, when the foot points downward, the ankle might dislocate backwards. Twisting injuries can cause the ankle to dislocate sideways. Dislocations are very painful. They often cause visible deformity, swelling, bruising, and possible numbness or tingling if nerves are affected. Standing or walking is often impossible. If you believe your ankle may be dislocated, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Diabetes can lead to various foot problems caused by poor blood circulation and nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. This condition reduces the ability to feel pain or temperature changes, increasing the risk of unnoticed injuries, blisters, or sores. Poor circulation also slows down the healing process, making minor foot issues more likely to develop into serious infections or ulcers. A routine foot care plan is essential for individuals with diabetes. This includes daily inspection of the feet for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling, and keeping the feet clean and moisturized to prevent dry, cracked skin. Wearing well-fitting shoes and changing socks daily can help to prevent irritation and injury. Regularly trimming toenails and avoiding walking barefoot are also important preventive measures. If foot problems arise, such as persistent pain, swelling, or wounds that do not heal, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist immediately. This foot doctor can provide specialized care, help prevent complications, and develop a comprehensive foot care strategy to maintain foot health.
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 Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. 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
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 Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Plantar warts are small growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, that typically develop on the soles of the feet. They often appear as rough, grainy lesions with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. Symptoms can include discomfort or pain when walking or standing, especially if the wart is located over a weight-bearing area like the heel or ball of the foot. Plantar warts spread through direct contact with the virus, thriving in warm, moist environments like communal showers or swimming pools. The virus can enter the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin. Individuals with weakened immune systems or who walk barefoot in public places are more susceptible. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which often includes in-office treatment.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
In the world of dance and sports, foot injuries are unfortunately common but manageable with proper care. Dancers, in particular, are prone to conditions like stress fractures, tendonitis, and ankle sprains due to repetitive movements and intense physical demands. These injuries often stem from overuse, improper technique, or inadequate footwear. Relief typically involves gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. However, an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment plans are key, making a podiatrist's expertise invaluable. This type of foot doctor can offer specialized care and recommend strategies tailored to a dancer's unique needs. If you are experiencing persistent pain or suspect a foot injury, a podiatrist can help you recover effectively and safely, ensuring you can return to your passion for dance with confidence and reduced risk of recurrence. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
If you think you might be a candidate for bunion surgery, here are key factors to help guide your decision. Bunions are painful bumps on the side of your big toe that develop when the base of the toe pushes outward. Bunion formation is often due to genetics and wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly high heels. Bunion pain can be managed through various non-surgical treatments such as wearing supportive shoes, and having pain medications or cortisone shots. If these methods fail and the bunion severely impacts your daily life, surgery becomes an option. The type of surgical procedure depends on the severity of the bunion, with moderate cases typically involving shaving the bump and correcting the toe joint's angle. Recovery includes wearing a special boot for a few weeks, and managing bruising and swelling. Delaying surgery can lead to more complex procedures with longer recovery times. A podiatrist will guide you through the recovery process, including follow-up visits to monitor for complications like infections. Keep in mind that surgery may not be a permanent solution, especially if you are genetically predisposed to bunions. Wearing proper shoes and avoiding injuries post-surgery can help maintain the results. If you have a bunion that is causing extreme discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if bunion surgery is right for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Brent Harwood, DPM of Southeast Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
