Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, most commonly on the big toe. This condition can be caused by improper nail trimming,  wearing tight shoes, injury, or a genetic tendency for curved nails. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain along the nail edge. In more severe cases, the area may become infected, leading to pus, warmth, and increased discomfort. Walking or wearing shoes can become painful, especially if the condition worsens. A podiatrist can effectively treat ingrown toenails by carefully removing the ingrown portion and relieving pressure. For recurring cases, a minor in-office procedure may be done to permanently remove part of the nail and prevent future problems. They may also provide guidance on proper nail care, footwear, and hygiene to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective 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 Afsaneh Latifi, DPM of Lenox Hill Podiatry. 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve thickens, often due to irritation or excessive pressure. This thickening compresses the nerve, causing sharp, burning pain, tingling, or the sensation of standing on a pebble. Symptoms may worsen with walking or wearing tight shoes. Morton’s neuroma can be diagnosed through a physical examination, during which a doctor may feel for a lump or listen for a clicking sound when squeezing the toes. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRI scans can help confirm the diagnosis. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM of Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Preventing falls is essential for older adults to maintain independence and avoid injury. One of the most effective ways to stay safe is by keeping the body strong and balanced through regular movement such as walking or gentle stretching. Keeping living spaces clear of clutter and ensuring floors are dry and well lit can reduce the chance of tripping. Supportive footwear that fits properly provides stability and reduces slipping. Installing grab bars in bathrooms and using handrails on stairs adds extra safety. Regular vision checks and reviewing medications can help identify issues that may affect balance or alertness. Falling can seriously impact the feet. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional falls prevention tips.

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 Afsaneh Latifi, DPM from Lenox Hill Podiatry. 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain on the inside of the ankle, also called medial ankle pain, is often linked to problems with the deltoid ligament, a strong band of tissue that supports the inner part of the joint. This ligament can be injured by rolling the ankle inward or from repeated strain over time. However, not all medial ankle pain comes from the deltoid ligament. Other causes include inflammation of nearby tendons, arthritis, or stress fractures. Symptoms may include swelling, stiffness, or difficulty bearing weight. A careful exam and imaging tests help identify the exact cause. Early treatment with rest, bracing, and targeted exercises can prevent further damage. Ignoring pain may lead to long-term issues with balance and mobility. If you feel pain or weakness on the inside of your ankle, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Afsaneh Latifi, DPM from Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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