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The foot condition that is referred to as an ingrown toenail is a relatively common ailment. It occurs when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, and can cause pain and discomfort. Prompt treatment of ingrown toenails may help to reduce the risk of an infection occurring. There are various reasons why patients may develop this condition. These can include excessive sweating, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, or trimming the toenails incorrectly. There are noticeable symptoms of this ailment which often include red and tender skin surrounding the affected nail and a fluid surrounding the toe. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Bradley Seel, DPM of Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical condition that is referred to as poor circulation occurs when there is an inadequate blood supply to the cells that they need to properly function. Many patients experience symptoms that include a tingling or numbing sensation in the feet, and the toes may feel cold. A common condition that is known as peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when the arteries in the legs become blocked. This can inhibit blood flow to the cells in the body, possibly causing poor circulation to occur. Another condition affiliated with poor circulation is known as Raynaud’s syndrome. The symptoms that are associated with Raynaud’s syndrome often include a burning or tingling sensation in the feet, and can develop as a result of stress or cold temperatures. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Bradley Seel, DPM of Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Your child may experience heel pain during a growth spurt. This condition is commonly known as Sever’s disease. Since the heel grows faster than the rest of the leg, the tendons experience extra strain. Symptoms of Sever’s disease include pain in one or both of the heels, tenderness that increases during exercise, and trouble walking. Oftentimes, the best treatment is rest. The condition does not cause long-term issues and should subside after a few months. However, sometimes doctors will recommend that a child takes NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, performs stretching routines, and wears supportive shoes. Be especially cognizant for Sever’s disease if your child plays a sport that includes running or jumping on hard surfaces. If your child is experiencing heel pain, be sure to contact a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Bradley Seel, DPM at Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

The medical condition that is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome typically occurs as a result of overusing the ankle and foot. This can happen when a patient frequently runs, or stands for extended periods of time. The nerve that is located on the inside of the foot and ankle may become compressed and inflamed, often causing pain and discomfort. Early treatment may prevent further damage from occurring. This includes resting the foot frequently throughout the day, and the type of exercise that is practiced may have to be altered so proper healing can take place. If the pain is severe, treatment that involves injections could be an option to consider. If you are affected by tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you counsel with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options that are correct for you.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Bradley Seel, DPM of Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.