A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toe sustains a fracture, typically due to trauma or repetitive stress. Symptoms of a fractured  toe include pain, swelling, bruising, or redness, along with difficulty bearing weight or moving the toe. A visibly deformed or angled toe can suggest a more severe break. Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam and imaging, such as an X-ray, to confirm the fracture and assess alignment. In some cases, more detailed imaging like an MRI scan may be required to detect stress fractures or ligament injuries. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the break. Supportive measures include buddy taping, splinting, or the use of a hard-soled shoe or walking boot to stabilize the toe during healing. Surgery may be necessary for displaced fractures or joint damage, and can involve pins or wires to maintain alignment. If you injure a toe or think it may be broken, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the skin beside it, often affecting the big toe. This can cause swelling, pain, and redness. As an ingrown toenail worsens, the area may become infected, sometimes producing pus and increased tenderness. Common causes of ingrown toenails include trimming the nails too short or with rounded edges, wearing tight shoes, and repeated toe injuries.  Wearing high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box may increase pressure on the nail, adding to the risk of it growing into the skin. People who sweat heavily or have fungal nail infections may also be more prone to developing an ingrown toenail. If the toenail becomes infected or the pain becomes severe, surgery may be needed to remove part of the nail. A podiatrist can provide care that may include nail removal and other treatments to prevent the regrowth of the problem area. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate 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 Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis often begins with subtle changes in the feet that may be easy to overlook. One of the earliest signs is stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest. This stiffness may be accompanied by mild swelling or tenderness in the joints of the toes or midfoot. Some people notice a gradual loss of flexibility or difficulty walking comfortably. Redness or warmth surrounding the joint may also develop as inflammation progresses. Over time, everyday activities such as climbing stairs or standing for long periods of time may become more difficult. Pain that increases with activity and eases with rest can also suggest the beginning of arthritis. Identifying these early symptoms is important for managing the condition before it worsens. If you are noticing changes in how your feet feel or function, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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