Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, creating irritation that can quickly become painful. This condition often develops from improper nail trimming, tight footwear, injury, or natural nail shape. Symptoms may begin with tenderness and progress to swelling, redness, and increasing pain, sometimes joined by drainage, warmth, or infection. The affected toe may look inflamed or puffy along the nail border, and it can feel sore, throbbing, or sharply painful, especially when walking or wearing shoes. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can worsen and interfere with daily activities. A podiatrist can help by carefully examining the nail and surrounding tissue to confirm the diagnosis and assess severity. Early treatment may include trimming, lifting, or protecting the nail edge, along with guidance on proper foot care. More advanced cases may require partial nail removal, medication, or corrective procedures to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors 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 Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The foot and ankle serve as the foundation for balance, movement, and overall body alignment, supporting every step taken throughout daily life. Their structure includes bones, joints, and ligaments that work together to create strength and flexibility, while absorbing shock with each stride. Soft tissue, such as muscles and tendons, provides stability and helps control motion during walking and standing. When foot balance is out of alignment, conditions such as plantar fasciitis, ankle instability, tendon strain, and joint pain may develop, often affecting posture and comfort beyond the feet. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can evaluate alignment, diagnose underlying issues, and provide treatment through orthotics or other medical care.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors 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 Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet and ankles are a common concern and can result from a variety of underlying causes. Trauma such as sprains or fractures may lead to inflammation and fluid buildup. Arthritis can cause joint swelling, stiffness, and discomfort that worsens with activity. Pregnancy often leads to swelling due to increased fluid retention and pressure on the veins of the lower legs. Additionally, blood vessel blockage or poor circulation may also cause persistent swelling and may signal a more serious condition. A podiatrist can evaluate the source of swelling, assess circulation and joint health, and recommend appropriate treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent complications. If you have painful swelling in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert care and personalized treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that involves thickening and irritation of a nerve that runs between the metatarsal bones at the base of the toes. It is commonly caused by compression of the nerve, which disrupts normal sensation between the ends of the metatarsals.  Wearing tight shoes that squeeze the forefoot can increase pressure in this area and worsen symptoms over time. Common signs include pain in the ball of the foot, a burning sensation, tingling, or the feeling of standing on a small pebble. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton's neuroma through a physical examination and imaging, when needed. Treatment may include footwear modifications, orthotics, targeted therapies, and pain relief strategies. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.