An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and pain. This condition often appears as redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border, and may lead to drainage or infection if untreated. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, toe injuries, and natural nail shape. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, excessive sweating, and repetitive pressure on the toes. A podiatrist can relieve discomfort by removing the ingrown portion safely, treating infection, and guiding proper nail growth. They may also address underlying nail deformities, provide guidance on footwear, and use specialized techniques to prevent recurrence while protecting surrounding tissue. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM of Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that can develop when high blood sugar damages nerves and reduces blood flow in the feet. People with diabetic neuropathy may not feel pain from cuts, blisters, or pressure points, which allows wounds to worsen. Poor circulation also slows healing and raises the risk of infection. Common signs include redness, swelling, drainage, and skin that feels warm around the sore. Foot deformities, poorly fitting shoes, and repeated pressure while walking can also increase the risk of ulcers. A podiatrist can examine the wound, check circulation, and remove damaged tissue to help healthy skin heal. Treatment also includes special dressings, reducing pressure on the foot with supportive devices, and managing infection. Early care is important because untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications, including loss of limb. If you have developed diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid crystals collect inside a joint and trigger sudden episodes of pain and swelling. The condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can also involve the ankle, heel, or other joints in the foot. A gout flare may begin quickly and cause intense throbbing pain, redness, and tenderness. The affected joint may appear swollen and shiny, and even light pressure from socks or blankets can feel uncomfortable. Walking may become difficult. Gout attacks are often linked to dehydration, kidney problems, and certain medication. Foods high in purines, such as red meat and seafood, may be a factor. Repeated flare-ups may lead to long-term joint damage if the condition is not properly treated. A podiatrist can evaluate the painful joint and recommend treatment to reduce inflammation and improve mobility. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment for this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM from Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Ankle fusion surgery is used to treat severe ankle pain, often caused by advanced osteoarthritis that damages the joint. In this procedure, the ankle bones are joined so the joint no longer moves. This can help to reduce pain by stopping bone-on-bone contact when you move. One of the main benefits of ankle fusion surgery is strong pain relief and improved stability, which can make standing and walking easier. However, there are important drawbacks. For instance, the ankle loses its natural motion, which can affect balance and change walking patterns. In addition, nearby joints may take on more stress, which can lead to additional discomfort. Recovery can take months, as the bones heal and fuse into one solid structure. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, review X-rays, and determine if this procedure is the right option based on your condition. If you have severe ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Patrick Bruton, DPM of Big Country foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Abilene, and Brownwood, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.