An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the skin along the side of the toe, often causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. When an ingrown toenail does not improve or worsens, a podiatrist may recommend a medical procedure. One common option is a partial nail avulsion, which involves numbing the toe with a local anesthetic and then removing only the part of the nail that is growing into the skin. This reduces pressure and allows the toe to heal. If ingrown toenails keep coming back on the same toe, a matrixectomy may be performed during the same visit. This procedure removes or destroys the nail root, called the matrix, so that part of the nail will not grow back. This procedure can be done using a chemical, heat from an electric device, or a surgical instrument. If there is an infection, a podiatrist may also prescribe oral antibiotics to kill the bacteria. If you have a problematic ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and safe treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM of Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. 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 Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle fractures can involve different bones and vary in severity depending on the location and extent of the injury. The tibia, the larger bone of the lower leg, can break near the ankle joint, affecting stability and weight-bearing ability. The fibula, the smaller bone on the outer side of the leg, is also commonly fractured in ankle injuries. The talus, a small bone between the tibia and heel, plays a vital role in movement and can be damaged in high-impact injuries. A lateral malleolus fracture affects the outer part of the ankle, while a medial malleolus fracture occurs on the inner side. A bimalleolar fracture involves both sides of the ankle, often leading to significant instability. If you have fractured your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can determine what the type is, and offer the treatment that is best for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Pickleball places significant demands on the feet, toes, and ankles due to frequent lateral movements, rapid direction changes, and sudden stops. Proper footwear for pickleball is essential to enhance stability during play and reduce the risk of injury. Unlike running shoes, which are designed for forward motion, pickleball shoes provide more lateral support, a reinforced heel counter, and a midfoot shank to help stabilize the foot. A thicker midsole affects comfort and mobility with cushioning that provides more shock absorption, while a thinner midsole allows for quicker movements. The outsole material is another key factor in choosing pickleball shoes. Outdoor pickleball shoes require durable rubber for traction on hard courts, while indoor shoes use softer rubber for better grip on wood or laminate surfaces. Choosing the correct shoe width and length is important to avoid foot strain or discomfort. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics, recommend appropriate footwear, and address any pain or discomfort that arises from playing pickleball. If you experience foot pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM of Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Choosing the right running shoes is important for foot health and injury prevention. Proper arch support helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing strain on the heels and forefoot. Cushioning is necessary to absorb impact, lessening stress on the joints and soft tissues. The fit of your running shoes should be secure, but not too tight to avoid blisters, black toenails, and nerve compression. Toe box width is another factor, as shoes that are too narrow can cause pain and deformities over time. The shoe’s flexibility should match natural foot movement to prevent unnecessary strain on the toes and ankles. Stability is essential, as inadequate support can increase the risk of sprains or tendon injuries. The type of running surface also matters, as road and trail shoes provide different levels of traction and shock absorption. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and gait to recommend shoes that improve comfort and help prevent running-related injuries. If you have foot pain or other ailments caused by running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Toenails change over time, just like the rest of the body. As people age, nails tend to grow more slowly, becoming thicker, harder, and more brittle. Many notice a yellowish or dull appearance, making them harder to trim. Years of pressure from shoes, minor injuries, or underlying conditions like poor circulation and arthritis can cause nails to become misshapen or develop ridges. Fungal infections are more common in older adults, leading to discolored, crumbly nails that may lift from the nail bed. Some people may experience dry, splitting nails due to decreased moisture retention. Thickened nails can press against shoes, causing discomfort or even pain. Regular foot care is essential. Keeping nails trimmed, moisturizing, and wearing well-fitted shoes can help. If your toenails become too thick, painful, or infected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide proper care to keep feet healthy.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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