Infected foot wounds often arise from cuts, scrapes, or punctures that become contaminated with bacteria. Common causes include stepping on a sharp object, improper wound care, and existing medical conditions like diabetes that impair healing. Symptoms of an infected foot wound can vary but typically include increased pain, redness, and swelling around the wound site. The area may feel warm to the touch, and pus or other drainage may be present. More severe infections can lead to fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. It is essential to recognize these signs early and seek medical attention promptly to prevent the infection from spreading. Proper wound care, including cleaning, applying antiseptics, and covering with sterile dressings, plays a critical role in combating infections and promoting healing. If you have a wound on your foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat various types of foot wounds.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Those at higher risk include individuals with curved or thick nails, those who trim their nails improperly, people who wear tight or ill-fitting shoes, and athletes or dancers who frequently stress their feet. Symptoms of ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, pain along the nail edges, and, in severe cases, pus or infection. Common causes are improper nail trimming, trauma to the toenail, and genetic predisposition. To prevent ingrown toenails, trim nails straight across, avoid cutting them too short, and wear shoes that provide adequate space for the toes. Relief for mild cases includes soaking the foot in warm water and keeping the foot clean. If you have severe symptoms of an ingrown toenail or it appears infected, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who may prescribe antibiotics or possibly a minor surgical procedure.

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 one of our podiatrists of Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Feet endure a lot of stress, carrying our body weight over countless miles throughout a lifetime. This constant use can lead to various sources of foot pain, making even basic activities like walking painful. A common cause of foot pain includes plantar fasciitis, characterized by sharp heel pain due to inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Bunions, which are bony bumps forming at the base of the big toe, can also cause significant discomfort. Flat feet, where the arches collapse, can lead to pain and fatigue in the feet and legs. Additionally, arthritis can affect the joints in the feet, leading to chronic pain and stiffness. Treatments for foot pain vary depending on the cause but often include rest, compression, and elevation. Orthotic inserts and wearing proper footwear can also provide relief. In more severe cases, medical interventions such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains, while commonly known for affecting ligaments, can also lead to peripheral nerve damage when the injury is severe. Peripheral nerve damage can occur when the nerves around the ankle are stretched, compressed, or torn during the sprain. Symptoms of peripheral nerve damage from an ankle sprain include tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the foot or along the ankle. Some patients might also experience a sensation of “pins and needles.” They may also have a lowered ability to feel touch, pain, or temperature changes. Severe cases can result in a limited ability to walk due to muscle weakness. Proper diagnosis and treatment are important to manage symptoms effectively. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, can use tools like nerve conduction studies to assess the extent of nerve damage. They may suggest various treatments,  including targeted stretching techniques to strengthen and restore function and medications that help manage pain and nerve symptoms. To alleviate pain and minimize the risk of chronic ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment options. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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