Ingrown toenails, medically known as onychocryptosis, occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes, repeated trauma, and genetic nail shape. Symptoms often include redness, tenderness, swelling, and, in severe cases, pus or drainage. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, and participation in activities that place pressure on the toes. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to chronic discomfort and infection. A podiatrist can provide safe nail care, remove problematic nail portions, recommend proper trimming techniques, and suggest protective footwear or orthotics to prevent recurrence. Ingrown toenails can be painful. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for partial removal.

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 Cory Brown, DPM of Cory Brown, DPM. 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 Lewiston, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Clubfoot is a congenital foot condition in which a newborn foot appears twisted inward and downward due to abnormal development of muscles, tendons, and bones. Risk increases with family history, limited space in the womb, or certain neuromuscular conditions. Common signs include a visibly rotated foot, stiffness, and differences in calf muscle size as a child grows. Although clubfoot does not cause pain at birth, it can affect walking and long-term mobility if left untreated. A podiatrist plays an important role in early diagnosis and personalized treatment, which may include gentle stretching, casting, bracing, and ongoing monitoring to support healthy foot alignment and function. Early intervention leads to excellent outcomes and improved quality of life. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team to begin a confident path toward proper foot development.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Cory Brown, DPM of Cory Brown, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated from repeated stress. This condition often appears during growth spurts when bones, muscles, and tendons develop at different rates. Symptoms may include heel pain, limping, tenderness, and tight calf muscles that increase discomfort during activity. Risk factors include high impact sports, poor foot mechanics, and wearing inadequate footwear. Causes often relate to overuse, sudden increases in activity, or tight muscles pulling on the heel. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend stretching routines, provide supportive footwear guidance, and offer treatments that reduce strain on the heel. If your active child has heel pain or is limping, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Cory Brown, DPM from Cory Brown, DPM. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

As the body changes with age, the feet often feel the effects first because they carry the weight of every step. Skin may become thinner and drier, toenails may thicken, and flexibility can decrease, making routine care more important. Many older adults experience reduced sensation or slower healing, which means small issues like corns, cracks, or nail problems can progress more quickly than expected. Choosing supportive footwear, moisturizing regularly, and checking the feet each day for redness, swelling, or pressure spots can help maintain comfort and stability. Gentle stretching and staying active can also improve circulation and mobility. Being consistent with foot care supports safer movement and overall well-being. If you notice persistent discomfort, skin changes, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for individualized guidance.

If you need your feet checked, contact Cory Brown, DPM of Cory Brown, DPM. 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 Lewiston, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.