Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Split toenails can result from various underlying causes. Fungal infections often weaken the nail structure, causing it to become brittle and split. Physical injuries, such as stubbing the toe or repeated pressure from tight shoes, can also damage the nail. As people age, nails naturally lose moisture and strength, making them more prone to splitting. Frequent use of nail polish and harsh removers may further dry out and weaken the nail. Vitamin deficiencies, especially in biotin and other essential nutrients, can lead to fragile nails. A split toenail typically appears cracked or frayed, with parts of the nail lifting or peeling away. If you have noticed your toenails are splitting, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help remedy this condition.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsfordand Newburyport, MA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Bunions and bunionettes are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe and little toe, respectively. These deformities can be caused by genetics, wearing improper footwear, foot structure, or repetitive stress, such as the pressure from running. Over time, the joints become misaligned as the top of the toe pushes inward, resulting in discomfort. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, pain while walking or running, and visible bumps at the toe joints. Runners may feel a sharp pain or ache during activity, as repeated impact and tight shoes can increase pressure on the bunion. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait, and running habits to recommend treatment. Options may include custom orthotics, footwear changes, padding, or targeted exercises to relieve pain and slow progression. In more severe cases, surgery may be considered. If you have a bunion or bunionette, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsfordand Newburyport, MA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sometimes it is the smallest edge of a toenail that causes the most discomfort. An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail’s side grows into the surrounding skin, often from wearing tight shoes, improper trimming, or genetic shape. But beyond pain, swelling, and redness, this condition can lead to deeper problems. When bacteria enter the broken skin, infection may follow, especially in people with diabetes or weakened immunity. Over time, what began as a minor nuisance can become a recurring issue, interfering with daily life and walking. Home remedies may offer short-term relief, but professional care addresses the underlying cause and helps prevent it from returning. If the area is swollen, draining, or painful to the touch, it is time to stop waiting. If you have an ingrown toenail that is worsening or not healing, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and 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 one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsfordand Newburyport, MA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
