An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper toenail trimming, wearing tight shoes, and repeated pressure on the toes. Risk factors include curved nails, injury, and poor foot-care habits. When conservative care is not effective, a minor surgical procedure may be recommended. This procedure involves gently removing part of the nail and treating the nail root to prevent it from growing inward again. Recovery time is usually short, with most people returning to normal activities within a few days while keeping the area clean and protected. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide treatment, and help prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus is one of the most common reasons for thickened toenails. The infection can cause the nail to become discolored, brittle, and enlarged, often appearing yellow, white, or brown. As the nail thickens, it may become harder to trim and can press against the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort. Other causes of thick toenails include repeated trauma from tight shoes, aging, or underlying skin conditions that affect nail growth. In some cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed or develop a crumbly texture. A podiatrist can evaluate the nail to determine whether the thickening is due to fungal infection or another cause. Treatment options include antifungal medications, professional trimming or thinning of the nail, and guidance on proper foot hygiene and footwear. Early care helps improve comfort and prevent the condition from worsening. If you have thick toenails or signs of a fungal infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures in the feet are small cracks in the bone that develop from repeated strain. They often occur when activity increases quickly or when the foot absorbs repeated impact, such as running or jumping. Pain usually begins gradually and worsens with movement, especially in weight-bearing bones like the long bones of the feet. Stress fractures can be difficult to detect early because swelling and bruising may be mild. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check for tender areas, and order imaging tests such as MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment includes reducing stress on the bone and using supportive devices like walking boots, braces, or custom inserts. These help to limit movement and reduce pressure on the injured area as healing continues. Care also includes a guided return to activity to prevent long-term problems. If you have symptoms of a stress fracture after vigorous activity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, leading to crystal deposits in the joints. The big toe is commonly affected because it is more prone to temperature changes and slower circulation, which encourages crystal formation. Symptoms often appear suddenly and include intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. Causes include genetics, obesity, certain medications, and decreased kidney function that limits the body’s ability to remove uric acid. Risk factors include high blood pressure and degenerative arthritis, which can increase susceptibility.  A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout, managing pain, and recommending lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe and surrounding joints, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and effective relief and treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.