We accept most insurance plans. Call today to confirm if we’re in-network with your provider.

Frankfort (815) 469-3211

Like Us
Follow Us
Review Us
NEW PATIENT FORMS

Blog

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. This condition can affect people of all ages, from children to older adults. It often involves the big toe and can result from trimming the nails too short, rounding the edges, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support and crowd the toes. Repeated pressure from sports or activities that stress the toes may also cause the nail to grow incorrectly. Some people are born with curved or wide nails that naturally turn inward, increasing the likelihood of ingrowth. If left untreated, the area can become infected and make walking uncomfortable. A podiatrist can remove the portion of the nail pressing into the skin, correct the nail shape, and provide guidance to prevent future issues. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and suggested treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

The Importance of Child Foot Care

Proper foot care during childhood supports healthy growth of the feet, toes, and ankles and helps guide normal movement as a child becomes more active. Babies and young children rely on flexible, developing bones and soft tissues that respond to pressure, footwear, and activity levels. Watching for changes such as inward or outward turning of the feet, persistent toe-walking, or frequent tripping can help identify concerns early. Shoes that lack adequate support, including flip-flops, can create problems if they are worn for long periods, especially once a child begins walking outdoors. Footwear should allow room for the toes to move and match the natural shape of the foot to reduce the risk of pain or deformity. A podiatrist can evaluate a child’s gait, identify early structural issues, and guide care when symptoms affect walking or activity. If your child is exhibiting foot or mobility problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet

What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the narrow space on the inside of the ankle called the tarsal tunnel. This compression can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the foot and ankle, often worsening with activity. Causes include repetitive stress, flat feet, ankle injuries, or swelling from medical conditions like diabetes or arthritis. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, and high-impact activities that place pressure on the ankle. A podiatrist can diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome through a physical examination and imaging tests, develop a treatment plan, suggest supportive footwear, prescribe orthotics, and recommend therapies to relieve pressure and improve function. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what might be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Foot Exercises That Help Prevent Running Injuries

Strong and flexible feet help protect runners from common injuries, and simple daily exercises can make a big difference. Towel crunches strengthen the small stabilizing muscles by placing a towel on the floor and pulling it toward you with your toes. Toe yoga improves balance by lifting your big toe while keeping the others down, then lifting the smaller toes while the big toe stays grounded. A big toe press builds power by pressing the toe firmly into the floor while maintaining a steady arch. Additionally, dynamic ankle dorsiflexion improves mobility by lunging forward and guiding the knee over the toes without lifting the heel. If you have sustained a foot injury that is keeping you from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional running prevention techniques.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Read more about Preventing Running Injuries
Connect with us
fb x google blog
 

Copyright © Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic | Site Map | Design by: Podiatry Content Connection