Foot Problems

Nail surgery: permanent solution for an ingrown toenail.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin and causes pain, swelling and sometimes infection. This is a common problem seen in podiatric practices and can be treated conservatively or more drastically by nail surgery.

When the conservative measures have failed to correct the problem, then nail surgery is an option that can be discussed with your podiatrist.

During the procedure, local anaesthetic is used to numb the affected toe. When the toe is numb, a piece of the nail is removed and phenol is used to destroy the nail bed, therefore the nail remains slightly narrower. Healing can take 3-6 weeks or longer.

Pedography is a measurement tool for the early recognition of the altered pressure patterns in the individual who suffers from Diabetes. As it is known, Diabetes can decrease the circulation and the sensation, as well as the shape of the foot due to neuropathy. The aim of the multi-disciplinary scientific team concerning the diabetic foot is to prevent ulcerations and amputations. Pedography is an easy and low cost method to achieve this aim. It was documented that during walking the plantar aspect of the metatarsal area displays increased and longer loadings than the healthy feet. In recent studies it was noted that 50 to 60 N per square centimeter, measured on a calibrated EMED platform with two sensors per square centimeter, indicates a risk threshold for ulceration. Consequently, together with the standard methods of treating diabetic feet, it is absolutely essential to make the necessary corrections of the pressure distribution of the increased loadings of the plantar aspect of the diabetic feet with the use of proper orthotic devices. A combination of these insoles with the right type of footwear can provide safe walking without the fear of ulcerations. The patient can then be tested while walking for the quantification of the load distribution with the PEDAR In-shoe pressure distribution measurement system.

A hallux valgus is a bunion that occurs on the big toe. Hallux means big toe and valgus means deviation away from the body. Many things contribute to a bunion’s occurrence. The type of shoes you wear, if they are ill fitting, may contribute, but a bigger factor may lie in hereditary problems with bunions. You are more likely to develop bunions if your family members have also been afflicted with them.