An infected toe can be painful and concerning, especially when caused by a fungus, poor circulation, or diabetes. Fungal infections often begin as athlete’s foot or nail fungus, while poor circulation, common in those individuals with vascular conditions or diabetes, can prevent proper healing, which increases the risk of infection. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, pus, or an unpleasant odor. The area might throb or feel tender, and walking could become uncomfortable. For diabetic patients, even minor infections can escalate quickly due to nerve damage and reduced blood flow. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of the toe infection, clean and treat the wound, prescribe antifungal or antibiotic medication, and offer custom orthotics or footwear to prevent further issues. In more severe cases, they may recommend minor surgical procedures or refer patients for vascular assessment. If you are experiencing a painful toe infection, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are small pockets of fluid that form from repeated friction, often caused by wearing tight shoes, sweaty feet, or long periods of walking. They usually appear on the toes, heels, or soles and can be painful or tender. While it may be tempting to pop a blister, doing so increases the risk of infection. Instead, keep it clean, dry, and protected with a bandage or blister pad. Letting the blister heal naturally is best when possible. If it breaks, clean it gently and cover it with a clean dressing. Wearing moisture-wicking socks and properly fitted shoes can help prevent future blisters. For athletes or those with diabetes, blisters should be watched closely. If a blister becomes red, warm or filled with pus, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot arthritis is a condition where the joints in the foot become inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the foot, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis results from wear and tear on the joints over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the joints. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury, such as a fracture or severe sprain. Symptoms include joint pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking. Risk factors for developing foot arthritis include aging, previous injuries, obesity, genetic predisposition, and repetitive stress on the feet. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are important to maintain mobility. If you have symptoms of foot arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips, helping you to manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.