Teaneck (201) 928-0808

google
Request Appointment

Blog

Factors That Lead to Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails develop when several risk factors come together over time. Improper trimming is a common cause, especially when nails are cut too short or rounded at the corners. Wearing tight shoes or with narrow toe boxes place repeated pressure on the nail edges and surrounding skin. Repetitive activities such as running or long periods of standing can worsen this pressure. Toe injuries, even minor ones, may change how the nail grows. Some people have naturally curved or thick nails that are more likely to press into the skin. Excessive sweating softens the skin, making it easier for the nail to break through. Poor foot hygiene and limited vision or flexibility can also contribute by making nail care difficult. Early awareness matters because inflammation and infection can develop quickly. If toenail pain, redness, or swelling appears, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. 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 office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

Risk Factors for Falling in Winter

Winter conditions increase the risk of slipping when feet lose traction on icy or wet surfaces, making footwear choices and foot function especially important. Shoes with firm soles, deep tread, and a stable heel help the feet grip the ground and limit ankle rolling, while worn shoes raise the chance of imbalance. Foot shape, reduced sensation in the toes, and stiffness in the ankles can affect balance, especially with age. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, check ankle motion, and identify problems like nerve changes or arthritis that interfere with stability. Treatment can focus on improving foot alignment, managing pain, and addressing deformities that limit safe walking, with surgery considered when structural problems prevent support. If you are at risk for falls, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and options for prevention.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Read more about Falls Prevention

What Is Turf Toe?

Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe joint that occurs when the toe bends upward too far, often during sports on artificial turf or hard surfaces. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced push off strength. The joint may look swollen or bruised, and it may feel sore, unstable, or sharply painful when walking or running. Causes include sudden force, repeated stress, and high impact activities like football, soccer, or dance. A podiatrist can help from the start by taking a detailed history, examining joint movement, and ordering imaging if needed to confirm diagnosis and rule out fractures. Treatment options include taping, immobilization, footwear modification, and anti-inflammatory care, with surgery considered only for severe cases. Early professional care supports healing, protects joint function, and reduces long-term stiffness. If you suspect you have injured your toe it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain

Different Wound Care Choices for a Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Managing a diabetic foot ulcer requires a thoughtful blend of treatments that support healing while protecting the surrounding skin. Care often begins by removing unhealthy tissue to create a healthier base for recovery. Moisture balancing dressings may be chosen to keep the wound environment stable, while topical or oral medications help reduce the risk of infection. Some ulcers benefit from advanced options such as biologic materials that encourage tissue growth or specialized padding and footwear to take pressure off the injured area. Vascular health and glucose control also influence how well the ulcer responds to care. Because every wound is different, a tailored plan helps promote steady progress and lowers the chance of complications. If your ulcer is not improving or feels differently than expected, it is suggested that you see 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 Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. 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 office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Diabetic Foot
Connect with us

Copyright © Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck | Site Map | Nondiscrimination Policy | Design by: Podiatry Content Connection