An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of growing straight outward. The condition usually affects the big toe and can become increasingly painful as the nail continues to press into the skin. Wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support can increase pressure on the toes and contribute to the problem. Improper nail trimming and toe injuries also can increase the risk. Symptoms include pain, redness, and tenderness along the edge of the nail. As the condition becomes more severe, the skin can become infected and produce drainage. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should receive prompt evaluation because infections can become more serious when healing is slower.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to determine the severity of the ingrown toenail and whether an infection is present. The evaluation includes checking the skin around the nail, the shape of the nail, and the overall health of the foot. The podiatrist also looks for swelling, drainage, or extra tissue that has developed around the edge of the nail because these changes can indicate that the condition has progressed. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the nail grows deeper into the skin or the infection becomes more difficult to treat. A complete evaluation also helps identify factors that increase the chance of the problem returning.

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail and whether the surrounding skin is infected. A podiatrist can safely remove the portion of the nail that is growing into the skin to relieve pressure and reduce pain. Patients with repeated ingrown toenails can benefit from a procedure that removes part of the nail root to help prevent the nail from growing into the skin again. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and confirm that the toe is recovering properly. The goal is to relieve pain, protect the toe from infection, and restore normal foot function. If you have symptoms of ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Extensor tendonitis is a common foot condition that causes pain along the top of the foot where the extensor tendons are located. These tendons help lift the toes, support foot movement, and maintain proper balance while walking and running. When these tendons become irritated or inflamed from repetitive stress, discomfort and limited mobility can develop. This condition often progresses gradually and may become more difficult to manage if symptoms are ignored.

The most common symptom of extensor tendonitis is pain across the top of the foot that increases during activities such as walking, running, or exercise. Other symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, redness, and occasional bruising. Some individuals experience weakness when lifting their toes or difficulty performing normal daily activities. Wearing shoes that are too tight can place added pressure on the tendons, increasing irritation and delaying recovery.

A major cause of extensor tendonitis is overuse, especially from activities that involve repetitive foot motion. Runners, athletes, and individuals who increase their exercise intensity too quickly may place excessive strain on the extensor tendons. Improper footwear is another common cause, as shoes with a tight toe box or excessive pressure across the top of the foot can restrict movement and contribute to inflammation. Poor foot mechanics, limited flexibility, and inadequate stretching may also increase the risk of developing this condition.

Treatment and prevention focus on reducing stress on the affected tendons and supporting proper foot function. Rest, stretching,  wearing supportive footwear, and activity modification can help improve symptoms. Wearing properly fitted shoes with enough room across the top of the foot can reduce unnecessary pressure. Addressing pain early may help prevent chronic discomfort and recurring injury. If you have pain on the top of your foot and want a proper evaluation, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Hammertoe is a deformity that causes a toe to bend downward at its middle joint instead of lying flat. It most often affects the second, third, or fourth toe. In some cases, the toe remains flexible at first, but it can become stiff and more difficult to straighten as the deformity progresses. Hammertoe can develop when muscles and tendons that control toe movement become unbalanced. This places extra pressure on the joints and causes the toe to curl. Other contributing factors include injuries, arthritis, diabetes, and wearing shoes that are too tight. Shoes with high heels can also force the toes into a cramped position and increase stress on the joints.

People with a hammertoe frequently notice pain while wearing shoes because the bent toe rubs against the inside of the shoe. Symptoms include tenderness, redness, and swelling surrounding the affected joint. Corns and calluses can develop where the toe rubs against shoes or neighboring toes. Some people experience stiffness and difficulty moving the affected toe. As the deformity becomes more severe, it may be painful to walk and stand. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe through a physical examination of the foot and toes. X-rays are sometimes used to evaluate the position of the bones and joints and to determine the severity of the deformity.

Treatment depends on how flexible the toe remains and how advanced the condition has become. A podiatrist can recommend shoes with a wider toe box to reduce pressure on the affected area. Custom orthotics, which are shoe inserts designed to improve foot function, can help relieve strain on the joints. Padding and other supportive devices can also improve comfort. When the toe becomes rigid or if pain persists, surgery can straighten the toe and restore a more natural position. Early evaluation can help prevent worsening deformity and reduce long-term discomfort. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

A broken ankle is a serious injury that requires prompt medical attention. An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones that form the ankle joint crack or break. This injury can happen after a fall, a sports accident, or a sudden twisting movement. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and bruising. Many people find it difficult or impossible to put weight on the injured foot. In some cases, the ankle appears misshapen or out of position. A podiatrist can examine the injury and order X-rays to determine the location and severity of the fracture. Early diagnosis is important because proper treatment helps the bones heal in the correct position and lowers the risk of long-term problems.

Treatment depends on the type of fracture and how far the bones have moved. Minor fractures may be treated with a supportive walking boot or a cast. These devices help keep the ankle stable while the bone heals. More serious fractures sometimes require the bones to be carefully moved back into place. This procedure restores normal alignment of the joint. Some patients need surgery to secure the broken bones with metal plates or screws. A podiatrist monitors healing through follow-up visits and imaging studies. Regular evaluations help ensure the ankle remains stable and is healing as expected.

Recovery from a broken ankle takes patience and close medical supervision. Many ankle fractures heal within several weeks, although healing times vary depending on the injury. As recovery progresses, a podiatrist may recommend specific exercises to improve movement and strength. Follow-up care also helps identify problems, such as stiffness, swelling, or delayed healing. Prompt treatment gives patients the best chance of returning to normal activities safely. If you believe you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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