An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This problem most often affects the big toe and can become increasingly painful if it is not treated. Several factors may contribute to an ingrown toenail, including improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, or an injury to the toe. As the nail continues to press into the skin, irritation and inflammation may develop around the nail border. In some cases, bacteria can enter the damaged skin and lead to an infection. Because symptoms often worsen, a professional evaluation is important to identify the problem early and recommend appropriate treatment. Prompt podiatry care may also help prevent recurring ingrown toenails and protect overall foot health.

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail often begin with tenderness along one side of the nail. As the condition progresses, many people notice redness, swelling, or increasing pain while walking or wearing shoes. The affected area may also become warm to the touch or produce drainage if an infection develops. Everyday activities can become uncomfortable because even light pressure on the toe may cause significant discomfort. Although an ingrown toenail may seem minor at first, delaying treatment can allow inflammation and pain to become more severe. Identifying the cause early may help reduce complications and support a faster recovery.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails and other conditions affecting the feet. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the affected toe, determines the severity of the problem, and develops an individualized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, addressing infection when present, and helping prevent future nail problems. Early podiatry care may also improve comfort, restore normal toe function, and reduce the risk of recurring symptoms. If you are experiencing toe pain, swelling, or redness from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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

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 offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A toddler’s flat feet can worry parents, especially when their footprints show little or no arch. In many cases, a toddler’s feet still contain soft tissue that hides the arch while the bones, muscles, and ligaments continue to develop. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that support the joints. As children grow, the arch becomes easier to see. Even so, some toddlers develop symptoms that deserve professional attention. Warning signs include foot pain, frequent tripping, or difficulty keeping up with other children. Some toddlers also show uneven shoe wear or seem tired after short periods of play. A podiatrist can determine whether flat feet are part of normal development or whether another condition is affecting the way the feet function.

A podiatrist begins with a thorough medical history and a careful examination while the child is sitting, standing, and walking. Watching a toddler walk helps reveal whether the foot remains flexible or appears stiff. The podiatrist also checks foot alignment, ankle movement, and the position of the heel. Parents can describe pain, changes in activity, or repeated ankle sprains that help guide the evaluation. Imaging, like an X-ray, is not necessary for every child. It is used when pain is unusual, movement is limited, or the podiatrist suspects an underlying bone problem. This careful approach helps identify toddlers who need closer monitoring and those who could benefit from further treatment.

Most toddlers with flexible flat feet do not require surgery. However, children with ongoing pain, reduced function, or a rigid foot shape benefit from prompt evaluation. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes or inserts, monitor changes in foot development, and determine whether additional testing is needed. If surgery becomes necessary, it is reserved for carefully selected cases after a thorough examination and accompanying imaging studies. The goal is to improve foot function, relieve pain, and support healthy growth. If your child has problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The big toe plays an important role in balance and forward motion when walking. If the joint at the base of the toe becomes stiff, bending the toe normally can be challenging. This condition is sometimes called hallux rigidus, which means stiff big toe. It develops when the joint gradually loses flexibility and movement. In many cases, the cartilage that cushions the joint begins to wear down, causing the bones to move less smoothly. Bone spurs, which are extra areas of bone growth, can also form around the joint and further restrict movement. People with big toe stiffness often notice pain when walking, climbing stairs, or participating in sports activities.

Several factors contribute to big toe stiffness. Previous injuries to the toe can damage the joint and lead to long-term problems. Repeated stress from sports or physically demanding activities can also affect the joint. Certain foot structures, including flat feet or very high arches, can place extra pressure on the big toe joint. Arthritis is another important cause. Symptoms typically include stiffness, pain, and swelling surrounding the joint. Some people develop a noticeable bump on top of the joint due to bone spur formation. As movement becomes more limited, walking patterns can change. This sometimes causes discomfort in other areas of the foot. Shoes that fit poorly or footwear that lacks adequate support can increase irritation around the affected joint.

A podiatrist can evaluate big toe stiffness through a physical examination and X-rays or other imaging scans. Identifying the exact cause is important because several conditions can create similar symptoms. After diagnosis, treatment can focus on reducing pain, improving joint function, and slowing further joint damage. Treatment options include custom orthotics, specialized shoe recommendations, and medication to reduce inflammation. In more advanced cases, surgery can improve movement or relieve pain. If you have stiffness in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot that develop from repetitive force or overuse, rather than a single traumatic injury. These injuries are common in athletes, runners, and others who suddenly increase their physical activity. In podiatry, stress fractures are considered overuse injuries that most often affect the metatarsal bones, although they can also occur in the heel, navicular bone, or other areas of the foot. Because these fractures develop gradually, they are sometimes mistaken for simple muscle strain or foot fatigue in the early stages.

Symptoms of a foot stress fracture typically begin with mild pain that worsens during activity and improves with rest. The pain may become more persistent and localized to a specific area of the foot. Swelling, tenderness, and sensitivity to pressure are also common signs. Some individuals notice pain when walking or standing for long periods, even without intense physical activity. In more advanced cases, the discomfort may become severe enough to limit daily movement and athletic participation. Early recognition of these symptoms is important to prevent the injury from worsening.

Risk factors for foot stress fractures include high-impact activities like running, basketball, and dance. Sudden increases in training intensity, frequency, or duration can place excessive stress on the bones of the foot. Footwear that lacks support or adequate cushioning also increases risk. Additional factors include low bone density, poor nutrition, and vitamin D deficiency. Biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches, are other factors. People who have had previous stress fractures are also at higher risk of recurrence.

The primary causes of foot stress fractures involve repetitive mechanical loading on the bones without adequate recovery time. This repetitive stress leads to tiny cracks that gradually worsen if activity continues without rest or treatment. Poor training techniques, hard training surfaces, and improper biomechanics can all contribute to excessive bone stress. Without proper care, a stress fracture may progress and lead to a complete fracture. This may require longer recovery time and more restrictive treatment. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective relief and treatment solutions.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.