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Ingrown toenail surgery is a common procedure used to treat toenails that grow into the surrounding skin and cause pain, swelling, and infection. This problem usually affects the big toe and can make wearing shoes or walking very uncomfortable. Common causes include trimming toenails too short, cutting the corners too deeply, and wearing tight-fitting shoes. Some people have naturally curved toenails that are more likely to grow into the skin. An ingrown toenail can also develop after a toe injury or repeated pressure from sports and other activities, like running. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, and drainage from the skin around the nail. In more serious cases, the area can become infected and produce swelling or pus.

When the condition keeps returning or becomes infected, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove part of the nail. In severe cases, the entire nail may need to be removed. Before the procedure begins, the toe is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia. This helps prevent pain during surgery. The podiatrist then removes the section of nail pressing into the skin. In some cases, the area that causes the nail to regrow is treated so the problem is less likely to return. This procedure is usually completed in a short office visit.

After surgery, the toe is covered with a bandage and should be kept clean and protected. People are often advised to wear loose-fitting shoes and limit pressure on the toe while healing. Mild soreness and redness can occur for a short time after the procedure. Following aftercare instructions carefully can help lower the risk of infection and support proper healing. Ingrown toenail surgery is generally safe and can provide long-term relief from pain and repeated infections. If you are undergoing surgery for an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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

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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that can develop when high blood sugar damages nerves and reduces blood flow in the feet. People with diabetic neuropathy may not feel pain from cuts, blisters, or pressure points, which allows wounds to worsen. Poor circulation also slows healing and raises the risk of infection. Common signs include redness, swelling, drainage, and skin that feels warm around the sore. Foot deformities, poorly fitting shoes, and repeated pressure while walking can also increase the risk of ulcers. A podiatrist can examine the wound, check circulation, and remove damaged tissue to help healthy skin heal. Treatment also includes special dressings, reducing pressure on the foot with supportive devices, and managing infection. Early care is important because untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications, including loss of limb. If you have developed diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

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 Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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 office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain in seniors is a common issue that can affect balance and increase the risk of falling. Recurrent pain from conditions such as arthritis, nerve damage, or poor foot alignment can make walking feel unstable and uncomfortable. This pain may appear as aching, burning, or sharp discomfort that worsens with movement and leads to cautious or uneven steps. Over time, reduced confidence in walking can further raise the chance of falls. These issues often develop gradually due to aging, decreased strength, or long-term strain on the feet. When pain is reduced, stability and movement often improve. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, identify the source of discomfort, and provide treatment to improve balance and support safe walking. If you are elderly and have consistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and additional fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, often causing heel pain with the first steps of the day. Most cases improve with conservative care, but when chronic pain persists and limits daily or physical activities surgery may be considered . The procedure typically involves releasing a small portion of the plantar fascia to reduce tension and improve movement. Good candidates are those who have not responded to other treatments and continue to experience significant discomfort. Risk factors include overuse, poor footwear, and foot structure. A podiatrist can provide non-surgical care, and determine if surgery is appropriate. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and determine the best treatment option for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

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:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

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 our office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.