Our toes might be small, but they play a crucial role in our daily lives. They help us walk, run, balance, and stand. Because of this, toe problems can greatly affect our quality of life. Here, we’ll explore some common toe problems and provide guidance on when it’s time to see a podiatrist in Los Angeles for treatment.
1. Ingrown Toenails
What It Is: An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the toenail grows into the skin next to it. This usually occurs on the big toe.
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the toenail
- Redness around the nail
- Swelling of the toe
- Possible infection with pus
Causes:
- Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or not straight across)
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
- Toe injuries
- Genetic predisposition
When to See a Podiatrist: If home treatments, such as soaking the toe and wearing comfortable shoes, do not alleviate the pain, or if there is significant redness, swelling, or signs of infection, it’s essential to see a podiatrist in Los Angeles. They can perform minor procedures to remove the ingrown part of the nail and prevent future occurrences.
2. Bunions
What It Is: A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place.
Symptoms:
- A bulging bump on the outside of your big toe
- Swelling, redness, or soreness around the big toe joint
- Corns or calluses (often where the first and second toes rub together)
- Persistent or intermittent pain
- Limited movement of the big toe
Causes:
- Inherited foot type
- Foot stress or injuries
- Wearing tight, narrow shoes
- Certain medical conditions like arthritis
When to See a Podiatrist: If you have persistent pain in your big toe or find it difficult to wear shoes, you should consult a podiatrist in Los Angeles. Early treatment can involve shoe modifications and orthotics, while severe cases might require surgical intervention.
Also Read: Bunions Getting Worse? Key Signs It’s Time for a Podiatrist Visit
3. Hammertoes
What It Is: A hammertoe is a deformity that causes your toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward.
Symptoms:
- Pain or irritation while wearing shoes
- Corns and calluses on the top of the middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe
- Redness, inflammation, or a burning sensation
- Contracture of the toe
Causes:
- Muscle imbalance leading to pressure on the toe tendons and joints
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Trauma to the toe
- Genetics
When to See a Podiatrist: If conservative treatments such as changing footwear or using orthotic devices do not relieve the symptoms, a podiatrist can offer treatments ranging from padding and taping to surgical correction in more severe cases.
4. Athlete’s Foot
What It Is: Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that typically starts between the toes and is common in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes.
Symptoms:
- Itching, stinging, and burning between the toes or on the soles
- Blisters or peeling skin, especially between the toes
- Cracking and peeling skin
- Dry skin on the soles or sides of the feet
- Discolored, thick, and crumbly toenails
Causes:
- Fungal infection (usually the same type that causes ringworm and jock itch)
- Warm, moist environments like shoes and public pools
When to See a Podiatrist: If over-the-counter antifungal treatments do not clear the infection, or if the infection spreads to your toenails, a podiatrist in Los Angeles can prescribe stronger medications and provide guidance on how to prevent recurrence.
5. Corns and Calluses
What It Is: Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction. Corns usually occur on the tops and sides of toes, while calluses typically form on the soles.
Symptoms:
- Thick, hardened areas of skin
- Rough, flaky skin
- Areas that are painful or tender to the touch
Causes:
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Foot deformities
- Walking or running often
- Wearing shoes without socks
When to See a Podiatrist: If corns or calluses become painful, a podiatrist in Los Angeles can safely remove the thickened skin and recommend better footwear or orthotic devices to prevent them from returning.
6. Toenail Fungus
What It Is: Toenail fungus is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, it can cause the toenail to discolor, thicken, and crumble at the edge.
Symptoms:
- Discolored toenails (yellow, brown, or white)
- Thickened nails
- Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails
- Distorted nail shape
- A foul smell
Causes:
- Fungal infection
- Moist, warm environments
When to See a Podiatrist: If the fungal infection is persistent, a podiatrist can prescribe stronger antifungal medications and provide toenail fungus treatment in Los Angeles to prevent further infection and restore nail health.
Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Toenail Fungus
7. Plantar Warts
What It Is: Plantar warts are growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Symptoms:
- Small, fleshy, grainy growths on the bottom of the foot
- Hard, thickened skin over a well-defined spot (a point of discomfort)
- Black pinpoints, which are small, clotted blood vessels
- Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
Causes:
- HPV infection
- Warm, moist environments
When to See a Podiatrist: If home treatments don’t work, a podiatrist can remove warts through various methods, including freezing (cryotherapy), acid treatments, or minor surgery.
Also Read: Plantar Warts, Corns, and Calluses: Signs and Symptoms
8. Gout
What It Is: Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints, often the joint at the base of the big toe.
Symptoms:
- Intense joint pain
- Lingering discomfort
- Inflammation and redness
- Limited range of motion
Causes:
- High levels of uric acid in the blood
- Certain foods and drinks (e.g., red meat, seafood, alcohol)
- Medical conditions (e.g., obesity, heart and kidney diseases)
When to See a Podiatrist: If you experience sudden, intense pain in your big toe or any other joint, seeing a podiatrist in Los Angeles is crucial. They can diagnose gout through tests and provide treatments to manage pain and prevent future attacks.
Conclusion
Toe problems can be painful and disruptive, affecting your ability to perform everyday activities. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of common toe issues and knowing when to seek professional help from a podiatrist can make a significant difference in your foot health. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms in your toes, don’t hesitate to consult a podiatrist in Los Angeles for proper diagnosis and treatment. Taking care of your toes is essential for maintaining overall mobility and quality of life.
Contact LA Foot Laser today to schedule your appointment so you can have healthy feet!
