An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting the big toe. This can lead to redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border. The area may feel painful with pressure from wearing shoes or walking. In some cases, the skin may become infected, causing drainage, warmth, or a throbbing sensation. The toe may look inflamed or slightly swollen, and symptoms can worsen if left untreated. Common causes include improper nail trimming,  wearing tight footwear, injury, or naturally curved nails. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the ingrown nail, and determine the most appropriate treatment. Care may include gentle removal of the ingrown portion, guidance on proper nail care, or a minor procedure to prevent recurrence. Early treatment can help relieve discomfort and reduce the risk of infection. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Sarah Urton, DPM of Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet and can move from person to person or across different areas of the body. Athlete’s foot develops when certain fungi settle into damp areas of the skin, particularly between the toes. The fungi spread easily in shared environments, such as gyms, locker rooms, and pool decks. They can also transfer through contact with contaminated items like shoes or towels. The skin may appear flaky, soft, or whitened, and can feel itchy, irritated, or mildly painful if small fissures form. Without treatment, the infection may persist or spread to the soles or toenails. A podiatrist can assess the affected skin and confirm the diagnosis through an examination. Treatment focuses on antifungal therapy, along with strategies to reduce moisture and prevent reinfection. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Foot pain can significantly affect hikers by limiting endurance and enjoyment on the trail. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain. Toenail problems, such as thickening or ingrown nails, can create pressure and discomfort. Blisters are fluid-filled lesions caused by friction and moisture that can become painful if not treated. Prevention includes wearing properly fitting shoes and moisture-wicking socks, as well as stretching the feet before starting activity to improve flexibility. Keeping feet clean and dry also reduces risk. A podiatrist can diagnose foot conditions, provide treatment, and recommend supportive footwear. If you have developed foot pain from hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and prevention tips.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot problems become more frequent with age as natural changes affect the bones, joints, and soft tissues. A loss of flexibility can lead to flat feet, where the arch collapses and causes strain. Seniors may also develop bunions, which are bony bumps at the base of the big toe that can lead to pain and difficulty walking. Joint wear, often called arthritis, can cause stiffness and swelling in the feet and ankles. In addition, reduced bone strength increases the risk of stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bone caused by repeated pressure. Circulation changes and nerve issues may also lead to discomfort or reduced feeling in the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate these conditions, provide custom orthotics to improve support, and offer medical care to relieve pain and prevent further damage. If you are experiencing foot pain as a senior adult, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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