An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This condition most often affects the big toe and can lead to pain, inflammation, and infection if not treated. It develops when the nail plate presses into the soft tissue, causing irritation and a break in the skin barrier. This can allow bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of infection. Understanding the types and causes of ingrown toenails is important for early recognition and proper care.

There are three main types of ingrown toenails based on the location of the nail growth. The lateral type is the most common and occurs when the side edge of the nail grows into the adjacent skin. The distal type develops at the front edge of the nail, where it presses downward into the skin. The proximal type is less common and involves the base of the nail growing into the surrounding tissue near the cuticle. 

Symptoms of ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain along the affected nail edge. As the condition progresses, the area may become warm and produce drainage or pus, indicating infection. Walking and wearing shoes may become uncomfortable due to pressure on the toe. Risk factors include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or narrow footwear, and repetitive trauma from physical activity. Naturally curved nails may also be a factor. Individuals with conditions such as diabetes may face increased complications due to slower healing and reduced sensation.

The causes of ingrown toenails are often related to both mechanical pressure and personal habits. Repeated stress from walking or running may also contribute. Early care and prevention strategies can reduce the likelihood of recurrence and improve comfort. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Troy Fowler, DPM of Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner 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 Nampa and Fruitland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint fracture. The ankle supports the body’s weight and handles strong forces while walking, running, and jumping. A fracture can follow a fall, sports injury, or forceful twist. Symptoms can include immediate pain, swelling, and bruising. Tenderness and difficulty putting weight on the injured ankle are also possible. Some patients can still walk with a fracture, so being able to take steps does not always rule out a broken bone.

Ankle fractures can range from stable breaks to injuries that leave the joint unstable. A severe injury can also cause the ankle to look deformed. Because fractures and serious sprains can produce similar symptoms, a careful evaluation is important. The ankle contains the tibia, fibula, and talus, and a fracture can affect one or more of these bones. Treatment depends on the location of the break and whether the ankle remains stable. Some fractures require immobilization, while unstable or displaced fractures can require surgery to restore proper alignment.

A podiatrist can evaluate an injured ankle by checking tenderness, swelling, and the ability to put weight on the foot. The examination can also assess the foot for related injuries and signs that circulation or nerves are affected. Imaging can help confirm a suspected fracture and show the position of the broken bone. A podiatrist can determine an appropriate treatment plan based on the injury and ankle stability. Follow-up care can monitor healing, joint movement, and lingering swelling. Proper care is important because complications can include lasting pain, stiffness, and reduced ankle function. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Troy Fowler, DPM from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Falls in seniors are a leading cause of injury and often result from a loss of balance or coordination. A fall occurs when the body is unable to maintain stability during movement or standing. Age-related changes in the muscles and joints can affect balance and increase the chance of falling. Reduced physical activity and underlying health conditions may also contribute. Understanding fall prevention strategies is key to protecting long term mobility and safety.

Common symptoms associated with fall risk include dizziness, instability, and difficulty maintaining posture. Seniors may feel unsure when walking on uneven surfaces or when changing direction. After a fall, individuals may experience pain in the feet, ankles, or other parts of the body. Swelling and limited movement can interfere with daily activities. Identifying these symptoms early can help reduce the likelihood of repeated falls.

Risk factors include poor physical conditioning, weak muscles, and lack of balance training. Social isolation and limited activity may lead to reduced strength and coordination. Foot problems, such as pain or improper footwear, can affect stability and increase fall risk. Environmental factors like poor lighting or cluttered walkways may also contribute. Falls often result from a combination of physical and environmental issues that affect safe movement.

Preventing falls involves improving balance and maintaining an active lifestyle. Exercises such as tai chi, pilates, and yoga can strengthen muscles and enhance coordination. Practicing balance techniques like walking in a straight line can improve stability. Wearing supportive footwear and regular foot care are also important for safe movement. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury after a fall, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, and additional fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Troy Fowler, DPM from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Ankle sprains happen when the strong ligaments that support the ankle stretch too far or tear after the foot twists in an awkward direction. Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bones and help keep joints stable. A sprain can occur while running, stepping on an uneven surface, or missing a step. The injury can affect the ligaments on the outside of the ankle or the higher ligaments between the lower leg bones. The severity ranges from mild stretching to a complete tear. Prompt evaluation is important because walking on an injured ankle too soon can make the damage worse and increase the risk of repeated sprains. Wearing shoes that provide good support also helps reduce unnecessary stress on the ankle.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, and trouble putting weight on the foot. Some people notice limited movement or a feeling that the ankle is unstable while walking. Others hear or feel a popping sensation when the injury happens. More severe sprains can make standing and daily activities very difficult. A careful examination helps determine the type and severity of the injury. Imaging tests, like X-rays or other scans, are sometimes needed to rule out a fracture or identify more serious damage. Early diagnosis also helps reduce the chance of long-term ankle problems.

Podiatrists evaluate ankle stability, joint movement, and walking patterns to understand how the injury affects foot function. Treatment focuses on protecting the damaged ligaments, restoring healthy movement, and helping the ankle regain stability. A podiatrist also monitors healing, identifies signs of ongoing instability, and recommends ways to reduce stress on the ankle during recovery. Early care helps lower the risk of repeated sprains, chronic pain, and reduced mobility. Proper treatment also supports a safer return to work, sports, and other daily activities. If you have symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Troy Fowler, DPM from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Nampa and Fruitland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.