An ingrown toenail is a condition in which the sides or corners of a toenail dig into the surrounding skin. Ingrown toenails are classified into three stages based on their severity. In stage 1, the end of the toe becomes reddened and mildly swollen. The affected toe can feel warm and painful to the touch, but has no pus or drainage. In stage 2, the toe becomes increasingly red, swollen, and painful, with yellow or white pus draining from the area. An infection may develop. In stage 3, the redness and swelling increase even more, and a mass of new tissue can grow around the nail, adding even more swelling and more pus.  At this stage, infections may be more severe and can be accompanied by a fever. If you have a painful or infected ingrown toenail, it is strongly recommended that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & 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

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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, known medically as onychomycosis, affects the nails of the toes and can interfere with overall foot health. This infection occurs when fungi penetrate the nail bed, often thriving in warm, moist environments such as those created by tight shoes or damp socks. Infected nails can become thick, brittle, and discolored, sometimes causing discomfort or pressure when walking. Over time, the fungal toenail infection can spread to other toenails or surrounding skin, leading to pain or secondary infections if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus through a careful examination and laboratory testing to confirm the cause. Proper treatment helps prevent further nail damage and improves the appearance and health of the affected nails. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove a severely infected nail and allow healthy regrowth. If you have been infected by a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and suggested treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot or lower leg that often occur in runners, basketball players, or dancers due to repetitive impact, overuse, or sudden increases in activity intensity. They may not be immediately visible but can cause localized pain that worsens with weight bearing, swelling, tenderness, or bruising. Many individuals notice discomfort that improves with rest but returns during activity, making early recognition important. Stress fractures commonly affect the metatarsals, especially the second and third, due to repetitive pressure during jumping or dancing. A podiatrist can evaluate suspected stress fractures through a thorough physical examination and imaging, such as X-rays or an MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other injuries. Treatment may include activity modification, protective footwear, orthotics, or immobilization to allow proper healing. Early intervention prevents complications and ensures a safe return to activities. If you experience persistent foot pain after activity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel fissures, or cracks in the skin around the heel, are a common problem that can cause pain and bleeding if left untreated. They often develop when the skin becomes dry, thick, or callused, and the pressure from walking causes it to split. Standing for long hours, wearing open-back shoes, being overweight, or having skin conditions such as eczema can make heel fissures worse. Treatment typically involves softening and moisturizing the skin with thick emollient creams or heel balms that contain urea or lactic acid. Having hard skin removed, and, in severe cases, having the heels bandaged can help. If heel fissures are painful, deep, or showing signs of infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and professional care, which may include prescribed medication for relief.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.