Ingrown toenails are often described as a simple trimming problem, but the real causes are usually more complex. Nail shape, toe structure, and pressure patterns all influence how a nail grows. Shoes that crowd the toes, repetitive stress from walking or sports, and even subtle changes in gait can push the nail edge into surrounding skin. Over time, the body reacts with swelling, redness, and pain that may worsen without clear infection. Home remedies sometimes mask symptoms while the nail continues to grow incorrectly beneath the surface. Chronic ingrown toenails can also alter how you walk, leading to discomfort elsewhere in the foot. Treatment focuses on correcting the nail growth pattern and relieving pressure, not just reducing pain. If toe pain, swelling, or recurring nail issues persist, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our providers of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our providers 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

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 offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and Midtown, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tendonitis of the ankle and foot is a musculoskeletal condition defined as inflammation of the tendons that connect muscles to bones and support movement. This irritation often develops from injury or repetitive overuse that places strain on the tendons. Several types may occur in different areas of the foot and ankle. Posterior tendonitis affects tendons along the back portion of the ankle, while medial tendonitis involves the inner side of the foot. Lateral tendonitis affects the outer side, and dorsal tendonitis occurs along the top of the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, and reduced movement during activity. Risk factors include overtraining, improper footwear, and sudden changes in activity. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition and guide treatment. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our providers from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our providers will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

The foot and ankle form a busy, flexible system that supports you with every step. The ankle acts like a hinge, allowing the foot to move up and down so walking feels smooth and natural. Beneath it, the foot is built from many small bones that fit together like a puzzle, creating strength while still allowing movement. The arch helps absorb shock each time your heel hits the ground, and the toes help push the body forward during the next step. Ligaments hold the bones in place, muscles guide movement, and tendons act like strong cables that lift and lower the foot. When everything works in harmony, the foot and ankle provide balance, stability, and protection during daily activities. If you notice pain, stiffness, or changes in how your foot or ankle moves, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and guidance.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our providers from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our providers can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Corns form when the skin thickens in response to repeated pressure or rubbing. This extra buildup of skin is the body’s way of protecting itself, but it can become painful. Corns usually develop on the top or sides of the toes, or on the bottom of the foot, where bones press against shoes. A hard corn has a small, firm center that pushes into the skin and causes discomfort when walking or standing. A soft corn often forms between the toes, where sweat keeps the skin moist and tender. Corns are smaller than calluses, which tend to cover wider areas and are often less painful. Tight shoes, toe deformities such as hammertoes, and changes in foot shape can all increase pressure and lead to corn formation. A podiatrist can safely remove thickened skin, evaluate foot structure, and treat the cause of ongoing pressure. If you have a painful corn on your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and safe treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our providers of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our providers will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our providers to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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