Ingrown toenails can be painful and persistent, but treatment options continue to evolve. Conservative care remains a first step for many. This includes warm salt soaks, gentle lifting of the nail edge, or protective padding to reduce pressure. Proper trimming techniques and footwear changes can also help prevent recurrence. When conservative measures do not bring relief, more advanced options may be considered. Newer treatments include partial nail removal combined with techniques to prevent regrowth along the problematic edge. This offers a long-term solution with minimal discomfort. In some cases, laser or chemical procedures are used to address the nail root directly. With both time-tested and modern approaches available, treatment can be tailored to fit each person’s needs and lifestyle. If you have recurring or painful ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment deemed best for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in adolescent children, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and pressure. This condition typically affects the back of the heel and may cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or running. Risk factors include rapid growth, participation in high-impact activities, and improper footwear. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommending rest, supportive shoes, heel cushions, and specific stretches to relieve discomfort. If your child is experiencing heel pain during activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment and guidance to ensure healthy development and a safe return to play.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

An acute ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists or rolls in an unnatural way. The term acute means that the injury happened recently and suddenly, rather than over time. Athletes involved in sports that involve jumping, quick direction changes, or uneven surfaces are more at risk. An acute ankle sprain causes immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Most acute sprains affect the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, particularly the one that connects the outer ankle bone to the foot. Ligaments help keep the ankle stable, and when they are stretched or torn, the ankle can become weak or unstable. Without proper care, athletes risk repeated sprains and long-term problems like chronic pain or joint stiffness. A podiatrist can determine the severity of the ankle injury, recommend bracing or walking support, and discuss surgery, if needed. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.