An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common risk factors include wearing tight shoes, improper nail trimming, injury to the toe, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms often include tenderness along the nail edges, throbbing pain, and drainage, if an infection develops. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can worsen and interfere with daily activities such as walking or exercise. A podiatrist can provide effective treatment, from careful removal of the ingrown portion of the nail to guidance on proper nail care and footwear choices. If you are experiencing pain or signs of an infected ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM of Flamingo Foot and Ankle. 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 Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The big toe plays a vital role in balance and movement, making it prone to injuries. Stubbing the big toe is a common cause of bruising or sprains, while fractures can occur from trauma or dropping heavy objects on it. Athletes are especially at risk due to repetitive stress, sudden stops, or forceful impacts during sports. These injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking, if not properly treated. A podiatrist can diagnose the severity of the injury, provide treatments like splinting or orthotics, and recommend specific exercises. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you  schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and provide effective treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM of Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, most often between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty shoes. Symptoms may include itching, redness, peeling, or cracking skin, sometimes with a burning sensation. In more persistent cases, the infection can spread to the toenails or other areas of the body. Preventive steps include keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or sprays often provide relief, but stubborn infections may require prescription treatment. Because untreated athlete’s foot can return or spread, consistent care is important. If you are dealing with ongoing irritation or suspect athlete’s foot that is not improving, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and management.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Diabetic wounds, especially on the feet, are a serious concern for individuals with diabetes, due to poor circulation and reduced sensation. These wounds may begin as small cuts, blisters, or pressure sores and can quickly develop into ulcers if not properly treated. They may appear red and swollen, or drain fluid, but may not be painful due to nerve damage. Common causes include high blood sugar levels, poor foot hygiene, ill-fitting shoes, and unnoticed injuries. A podiatrist plays a vital role in diabetic wound care by diagnosing the severity of the wound through physical examination and, when needed, imaging or lab tests. Treatments may include wound cleaning, debridement, pressure offloading, and advanced wound dressings. A podiatrist also provides education on proper foot care and prevention strategies to reduce the risk of future wounds. If you notice signs of a foot wound, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist immediately to avoid serious complications.

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 Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. 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 Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sinus tarsi syndrome is a painful condition affecting the lateral, or outer side of the foot, specifically in the sinus tarsi, a small cavity located between the talus and calcaneus bones. This syndrome often develops after an ankle sprain or from repetitive strain, leading to inflammation and instability in the area. People with flat feet or those engaged in activities involving quick turns and uneven surfaces, like runners and dancers, are more prone to sinus tarsi syndrome. Symptoms typically include tenderness, a feeling of instability, and a dull, persistent pain on the outer foot, which can worsen with activity or while walking on uneven ground. Diagnosis involves a physical examination, often followed by imaging, such as MRI scans to confirm. Treatment options include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and supportive orthotics. In more severe cases, steroid injections or surgery may be recommended for lasting relief. If you have pain on the outer part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.