An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper toenail trimming, wearing tight shoes, and repeated pressure on the toes. Risk factors include curved nails, injury, and poor foot-care habits. When conservative care is not effective, a minor surgical procedure may be recommended. This procedure involves gently removing part of the nail and treating the nail root to prevent it from growing inward again. Recovery time is usually short, with most people returning to normal activities within a few days while keeping the area clean and protected. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide treatment, and help prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles, also known as edema, occur when fluid builds up in the tissues, causing puffiness and discomfort. This can happen from everyday lifestyle factors such as sitting or standing for long periods, especially during travel, which slows circulation. A high salt diet may also lead to fluid retention. Swelling also can be linked to medical conditions that affect blood flow or fluid balance. Symptoms may include tightness, heaviness, and visible swelling around the feet and ankles. Risk factors include inactivity, poor circulation, and certain health concerns. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend supportive care, and suggest ways to improve circulation. If your feet and ankles are swollen for most of the day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.