Various toenail conditions can lead to discomfort, often resulting from injury, infection, or underlying skin issues. One of the most common problems is an ingrown toenail, which can become increasingly painful if not addressed. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border. The area may feel especially sore when pressure is applied, such as while wearing shoes, and infection may develop with drainage or warmth. Factors that contribute to this condition include trimming the nails too short, tight footwear, previous injury, or naturally curved nails. A podiatrist can assess the condition and recommend appropriate care. Treatment may involve removing the ingrown portion, providing guidance on proper nail trimming, or performing a minor procedure to help prevent recurrence. Prompt care can ease discomfort and reduce the risk of infection. If you have an ingrown toenail or other nail concerns, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Joseph M. LaCava, DPM of Arkansas. 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 Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain and tired legs can happen when the feet are not aligned or supported well. Common causes include flat feet, high arches, bunions, heel pain, and joint stress from standing or walking. Among the symptoms are aching feet, sore heels, knee pain, and fatigue that makes completing daily tasks harder. Orthotics can help by supporting the arches, spreading pressure, and guiding the feet to move in a healthier way. This support can reduce pain, protect joints, and improve balance so the body works better during the day. Orthotics can also help lower strain on muscles and tendons, which may reduce the risk of injury and improve comfort during work or exercise. If foot pain is limiting your daily life, it is suggested that you schedule an podiatric evaluation to see if orthotic support may help restore comfort and mobility. 

Custom orthotics can be an important solution for reducing foot pain by targeting its structural causes rather than just the symptoms. When the feet are misaligned, excess strain develops in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often resulting in discomfort in the arches, balls of the feet, or toes. Orthotics are designed to match each foot’s natural shape, supporting proper alignment and evenly distributing pressure to ease pain and improve movement.

Foot pain is commonly caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, or biomechanical issues that place added stress on sensitive areas. By stabilizing the foot and restoring natural motion, custom orthotics help reduce strain, calm inflammation, and promote healing. Many patients experience lasting relief and greater comfort while walking, standing, or exercising.

Created from a detailed assessment using advanced imaging or casting, each pair of orthotics is tailored to your individual needs. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you contact our office for an evaluation and treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hot Springs, AR .

Feet often get less attention than other parts of the body, yet they change with each decade. In early adulthood, long hours on the feet, sports, and wearing tight shoes can lead to strain and early wear. In midlife, arches may begin to lower, and weight changes can increase pressure on joints and soft tissue. By later years, skin may thin and dry, nails can thicken, and circulation and sensation may decline, raising the risk of unnoticed problems. Because many changes happen slowly, they are easy to overlook until discomfort appears. Taking time to check your feet, wear supportive shoes, and keep skin and nails well cared for can make a difference at any age, but especially in older age. If you notice changes to your feet that concern you or do not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

If you need your feet checked, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM of Arkansas. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Foot care is especially important for people living with diabetes. High blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation, which makes it harder to feel injuries and slower for wounds to heal. Because of this, small problems can quickly become serious if they are not noticed early. Daily foot checks help identify cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling before they worsen. Looking between the toes and along the soles of the feet is important, since these areas are often overlooked. Muscle strengthening exercises can also support foot stability and improve balance, which may help prevent injuries. Wearing properly fitted shoes and keeping skin clean and dry are also helpful habits. Even when feet appear healthy, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits with a podiatrist who can provide professional evaluation and preventive care.

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 Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. 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 Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.