Recognizing & Treating The Most Common Toe Issues with our Concord Foot Surgeon
The toes on our feet are relatively tiny, but they absorb a lot of pressure on a day-to-day basis, and develop a lot of issues as a result. If your toes aren’t feeling so happy lately, here are some common conditions that might be the cause.
Claw Toe
Claw Toe, also known as Claw Foot, occurs when your first toe joint points upwards and the second joint points downwards. Claw Toe can occur suddenly, or it may be present at birth. The condition can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or cerebral palsy. If you have Claw Toe, it is important to seek treatment regardless of whether you are experiencing pain, as it can cause other painful foot issues.
Hammer Toe
Hammer Toe is a condition wherein the toe is curved and points downward rather than outwards. Like many other foot conditions, Hammer Toe can be the result of genetics, poorly-fitting footwear, or other health problems such as high arches, bunions, arthritis, or foot injury. If you are suffering from Hammer Toe, make sure to consult a podiatrist on the best treatment option for you.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are toenails which grow into the surrounding skin. They can be caused by genetics; poorly-trimmed nails; shoes that compress the toes; or a toe injury. While mild cases of ingrown toenails can be treated at home with warm soaks, pain relievers, and topical antibiotics, most severe ingrown toenails may not heal on their own and will require surgical removal. If you attempt to remove the ingrown toenail yourself, you run the risk of worsening the condition or causing an infection.
Toenail Fungal Infection
If you notice streaking, crumbling, flaking, or yellow spots on your toenails, you may have a foot fungus. Fungal infections occur when fungi enter your toenail, usually through a public space such as a public pool, unsanitary pedicure spa, or a locker room. You may also contract the fungus because of a medical condition like diabetes, or a skin injury near your toenail. Since your feet are a dark, moist environment, the foot fungus is able to live quite happily there. If you are suffering from a foot fungus, your podiatrist will generally prescribe an antifungal medication to treat it.
Visit our Concord Foot Doctor Today
Foot conditions can vary in type, symptoms, and severity. If gets in the way of your day-to-day life, or if home-based treatments don’t seem to be making any improvement, be sure to visit our Concord NC podiatrist. If you notice drainage, blood, severe pain, or inflammation on your feet or toes, make sure to see a podiatrist immediately, as it is likely infected. Make an appointment at our Concord NC foot clinic here!