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Why Toenail Pain Happens and What It Means

Onychalgia, or pain involving the nails, can be surprisingly intense due to the structure of the fingertip or toe tip. The end of the toe contains many sensitive nerve endings, and there is little cushioning between the nail and the underlying bone. In addition, strong connective fibers tightly anchor the nail to the tissue beneath it. Because of this, even slight pressure, swelling, or changes surrounding the nail can lead to significant discomfort, as there is little room for the area to expand without causing pain. Nail pain can come from a variety of causes, including irritation, injury, infection, or changes in how the nail grows. Understanding what is driving the pain helps guide care that focuses on both relief and long-term improvement. Treatment may involve reducing pressure, addressing inflammation, or correcting nail growth patterns. If you are experiencing persistent nail pain or sensitivity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 contact our office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Dealing With Foot Drop

Foot drop is a condition that makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot while walking. This motion allows the toes to clear the ground with each step. When the muscles that perform this movement become weak or the nerves that control them are damaged, people may develop an abnormal walking pattern known as a steppage gait. This occurs when the knee is lifted higher than normal to prevent the toes from dragging, similar to marching. Foot drop can result from nerve compression near the knee, injuries to the lower back, or certain muscle or neurological disorders. Without proper care, the risk of tripping and falling may increase. A podiatrist can evaluate walking patterns, perform physical and neurological exams, order imaging tests, and provide bracing, custom orthotics, or rehabilitation guidance. If you have difficulty lifting the tip of the foot while walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry

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