Ingrown toenails

Toenail Problems and How to Prevent Them

January 6, 2025/0 Comments/in Toenails /by Carrollton Foot Center

Our toenails play a crucial role in protecting our toes and supporting healthy foot function. However, various conditions can affect our nails, leading to discomfort, pain, and even infections. This article from us at Carrollton Foot Center provides essential knowledge for maintaining optimal toenail health and preventing common problems.

Toenail Conditions to Watch Out For

Don’t get us wrong: everyone should take proper care of their toenails. But, if you are an athlete, diabetic, or someone prone to infection, you should be particularly careful. Here are some toenail issues to watch for:

Brittle Nails: Nails that are dry, cracked, or easily broken can indicate anemia, thyroid disorder, or nutritional deficiencies.
Fungal Infections: Onychomycosis can cause nails to thicken, discolor, and become brittle.
Ingrown Toenails: The classic case when the nail turns on you (literally), growing into the surrounding skin and causing pain, redness, and swelling.
Discolored Nails: Changes in nail color, such as yellowing, greening, or blackening, can signal fungal infections, injuries, or other medical conditions. For instance, it’s common for athletes with black nails to have a subungual hematoma caused by repetitive trauma.

Tips for Healthy Toenails

Numerous studies show that biotin can help strengthen brittle nails, including this one courtesy of PubMed. Similarly, zinc is known to be essential for cellular growth. It’s also known that white spots in toenails are linked to deficiencies in zinc.
Beyond vitamins and supplements, It’s always best to consult a doctor or podiatrist before starting any new supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
This is why maintaining healthy toenails should start with the basics: trimming them to prevent ingrown toenails, washing your feet daily, drying them thoroughly, and wearing clean socks to prevent fungal infections.
Also, there are some great ways to take care of toenail fungus should you encounter it, which is why healthy nails are always a podiatrist consultation away.

Consult with Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, an esteemed professional who is dedicated to her patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins Counties. Dr. Khavari treats a wide range of conditions, from ingrown toenails to foot and ankle injuries. Call Carrollton Foot Center’s office (located in Carrollton, Texas) at (469)-998-3668 to schedule your first appointment today!

Staying Safe at the Salon: 5 Pros and Cons of Pedicures

July 9, 2024/0 Comments/in Pedicures /by Dr. Khavari

Many of us can benefit from an occasional pedicure’s ability to reduce inflammation, improve sensation in the feet, and promote healing. However, we at Carrollton Foot Center want you to know that pedicures can also be dangerous, especially for those with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, and weakened immune systems.

In this article, we’ll weigh both sides of the bathtub, from improved circulation to possible infection, to help you determine if pedicures are right for you.

The Pros and Cons

Pro: Improved Circulation

The massage techniques used by nail technicians stimulate blood flow in the feet and ankles.

Con: Infection

This massaging effect may not stimulate sensation in diabetics or those with peripheral nerve damage, meaning they are still susceptible to wounds from pedicure techniques.

Pro: Early Detection

Trained pedicurists can identify signs of potential problems like calluses and ingrown toenails.

Con: Inexperience

Untrained technicians may not notice the signs of a problem that a podiatrist can, leaving you with a false sense of security and confidence in your feet.

Pro: Exfoliation and Skin Health

Pedicures remove dead skin layers that lead to dryness, roughness, and cracking.

Con: Cuts and Abrasions

Even minor nicks from tools or buffing the cuticle can become entry points for infection, especially for diabetics with decreased circulation.

Pro: Improved Toe Health

Regular trimming and filing during a pedicure helps maintain proper toenail shape and generally prevents ingrown toenails.

Con: Ingrown Toenails

However, improper and aggressive trimming techniques can increase the risk of ingrown toenails and fungal nail infections.

Pro: Maintaining Good Foot Hygiene

The soaking, cleansing, and drying process removes dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can accumulate on the feet.

Con: Harsh and Unsanitary Tools

Improperly sterilized tools can spread bacteria or fungus. Some salons may also use strong chemicals in foot soaks or polishes that can irritate the skin, leading to allergic reactions or rashes.

Consult with Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, an esteemed expert who is dedicated to her patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins Counties. She helps with a wide breadth of issues, from ingrown toenails to diabetic neuropathy. Call Carrollton Foot Center’s office (located in Carrollton, Texas) at (469)-998-3668 to schedule your initial appointment today!

Custom Orthotics Cater to Feet of All Ages

January 9, 2024/0 Comments/in Orthotics /by Dr. Khavari

Sometimes, we all need a little extra support to function. And when it comes to your feet, that’s especially true! Tired arches and aching heels don’t usually mend themselves, and leaving problems untreated can lead to further complications. This holds true for both our youngest patients and the senior citizens that we treat at Carrollton Foot Center.

In many cases, conservative interventions can make all the difference. That’s where custom orthotics come in, offering personalized solutions for both children and adults. Take a look at the information below to find out what these sole savers can do for you!

Growing Strong: Orthotics for Developing Feet

Children’s feet are constantly growing and evolving, and sometimes, that growth can lead to misalignments like flat feet or high arches.
Custom orthotics, crafted to mold perfectly to a child’s unique foot shape, can promote proper development, guiding growing bones into correct alignment while reducing the risk of long-term problems like hip and knee pain.
Early intervention with orthotics can address issues like heel pain and ingrown toenails, improving a child’s overall comfort and participation in activities.
By providing stability and support, orthotics can improve balance, coordination, and endurance, giving young athletes a boost in their chosen sports.

Stepping Ahead: Orthotics for Adult Feet

Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or simply tired feet, orthotics can redistribute pressure and provide cushioning, leading to pain relief and improved mobility.
Orthotics can address problems like foot pronation or supination, preventing further damage and improving overall posture and gait.
For individuals with diabetes or neurological issues, orthotics can play a crucial role in preventing foot ulcers and promoting wound healing.

Customized for You

Unlike the one-size-fits-all approach of over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are made specifically for each individual’s foot.
The precise fit minimizes pressure points, providing targeted support exactly where it’s needed.
High-quality materials ensure your orthotics withstand the demands of daily life.
With proper care, custom orthotics can offer years of improved foot health and comfort.

Wondering if orthotics are right for you? Come ask board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari! Committed to helping all her clients in Carrollton, TX, she offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

How To Find Your Correct Shoe Size

October 10, 2023/0 Comments/in Shoe Size /by Dr. Khavari

Having your feet measured professionally is a good idea when shopping for shoes. As we age, our feet grow when the tendons and ligaments lose elasticity. The results are that the toes spread out, the arch flattens, and the feet become longer and wider.

Using The Brannock Device

This strange-looking metal device used to measure your feet in shoe stores is called a Brannock Device. It has been in use for almost 100 years!

Charles F. Brannock came from a shoe industry family and wanted an improved means of measuring the length and width of your feet and the height of the arch. The foot-measuring device that we know today as the Brannock device gives accurate measurements of both right and left feet and is the international footwear industry standard.

There are models for men’s shoe sizing, women’s and children’s, and specialized types for athletic shoes and ski boots. Even the Smithsonian Institution recognizes its contribution to the American industry and houses samples of some of the first Brannock devices.

Getting the Right Shoe Fit Is Important

Studies show that only about 37% of people wear shoes of the correct length and width! Are you one of them? Wearing shoes that are too short, too narrow, or too tight can cause some significant foot problems, including:

Neuropathy: Pins and needles in the feet and decreased sensation can be caused by tight-fitting shoes that put pressure on the nerves.
Hammertoe: Shoes that are too narrow in the toe box can force toes to bend unnaturally into the hammertoe shape. Besides being painful, the skin of the hammertoe can have corns and calluses from footwear pressure against bony spots.
Ingrown toenails: Pressure on the toe from poorly fitting shoes can force the edge of a toenail to grow into the skin and become infected.
Bunion: Although tight shoes won’t cause a painful bunion, they can worsen it by pushing the big toe.

Foot pain from poorly-fitting shoes can also cause mobility issues and falls. Play it safe – measure both feet at least twice yearly for foot comfort and safety.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Back-To-School Foot Care Tips

August 4, 2023/0 Comments/in Back to School /by Dr. Khavari

August is back-to-school month! Are you starting to prepare your kids for early mornings, homework, and fall sports? One of the best things you can do for your child’s health this school year is to start or continue prioritizing foot care.

Here are some easy ways to include healthy feet in your back-to-school prep and checklists:

Start Fresh with New Shoes and Socks

Back-to-school shopping can be costly. When you consider shopping for shoes and socks, it can be overwhelming. If there is one investment that we cannot underestimate, it is comfort and support for your children and their feet. Poor foot hygiene at a young age can lead to more problems in the future.

Bring Them for a Yearly Podiatry Appointment

Check with their podiatrist if your child is still healing from an ankle sprain from a summer sport. Ankle sprains are common injuries that can lead to prolonged symptoms, including weak ankles or arthritis. From blisters and bunions to ingrown toenails, now is the time to address foot issues. Schedule an appointment with your podiatrist today.

Discuss Healthy Foot Care Habits and Hygiene Tips

Does your child know that sharing shoes is not a good idea? Are they wearing shoes in the locker room if they play sports? There are key hygiene habits to share with your child before returning to school. From athlete’s foot to fungal toenails, sharing germs is an unfortunate part of sharing common spaces in school. But these can easily be prevented with some simple switches and reminders.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari is committed to helping her clients in Carrollton, TX. She offers a wide variety of treatments, from ingrown toenails to advanced surgical solutions. Contact Carrollton Foot Center’s office at 469-998-3668 to schedule an appointment today!

Foot Pain and Your Golf Game

August 8, 2022/0 Comments/in Foot Care, Foot Pain, Sports /by Dr. Khavari

August is National Golf Month, so we are making sure you are all set for your next swing. Whether you enjoy golfing as a hobby or competing with other professionals, we know you are dependent on your feet. As you travel from one hole to the next, foot pain is not a part of the plans. There are common foot conditions that can affect your game, but we’re here to make sure you stay steps ahead.

Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari of the Carrollton Foot Center works with a variety of athletes, from basketball players to golfers. Regardless of the sport, support, and shoe style matter. She helps athletes make the best decisions for their feet. The results can help them with the game, too.

Here are three things to do before your next golf game:

Trim your toenails

Long toenails in your golf shoes can cause discomfort and an ingrown toenail. Trim your toenails properly to limit how much they rub against the inside of your shoes. An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail begins to grow into the side of your skin. If it pierces the skin, there is a risk of infection.

Address foot pain

If you have foot pain, it will seem like the longest walk from one hole to the next. Addressing foot pain now will allow you to perform your best. Simple solutions include getting evaluated for custom orthotics, increasing your shoe size, or allowing your feet to rest. Common foot problems include plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, and Achilles tendonitis.

Check your shoes

Your shoe style can make a significant difference with your support. While shopping for golf shoes, take your time. Shop at the end of the day, which is when your feet are at their largest. Ask the sales representative to use a Brannock Device to measure your feet. The device is the best tool for getting an accurate shoe size.

Giving your best on the golf course starts with feeling great from head to toe. We can help with the foot-and-ankle part of your swing. If you have concerns about foot pain and how it can affect your game, contact us today.

Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, is here to help. She treats a variety of conditions such as bunions, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and more. We also offer advanced surgical solutions. Our team provides excellent service to patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins counties. Contact our office at (469) 998-3668 for your foot and ankle solutions. Our office is at 4221 Medical Parkway, STE 450, in Carrollton, TX.

Making Changes During Men’s Health Month

June 6, 2022/0 Comments/in Podiatric Care /by Dr. Khavari

June is Men’s Health Month, and we’re zeroing in on common foot problems that affect the men and boys in our lives. We want to help them prioritize their foot health and learn how to act fast at the first indication of trouble. Today we’re going to talk about three common foot problems.

Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari of the Carrollton Foot Center hopes to help increase awareness about podiatric problems and how to treat them efficiently. We hope you will use this post to guide you in conversation. If someone has never been to a podiatrist, it may take a while to understand the value of a foot and ankle specialist.

Take note of these three common foot problems for the men and boys in your life:

Fungal toenails

Not everyone is a fan of an at-home pedicure, but it doesn’t take away from the value of basic foot hygiene. Men and boys can often forget about toenail care. Their toenails can discolor, become brittle, or even be ingrown. Each of these issues is a warning sign of a problem.

Don’t walk barefoot in the gym or near the pool
Don’t ignore changes to your feet
Don’t share shoes with teammates or family members

To the boys and men who are reading this post, do you rip, pull, or tear your toenails? We hope you are being more careful and using a pair of clean clippers instead.

Trim straight across during regular foot care sessions
Wear shoes with a roomy toe box
If the ingrown toenail cuts into the skin to create an open wound, visit a podiatrist

Foot pain

Are you ignoring the foot pain that has caused you to stop while walking, playing, or running? We’re here to remind you that foot pain is not normal. It’s OK to contact a doctor to seek treatment.

Explore options for custom orthotics
Take a closer look at your shoes
Learn about your family history and inherited foot structure

It should be all about men’s health year-round, but we hope this month is a start. We’re here to help.

Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, is here to help. She treats various conditions such as bunions, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and more. We also offer advanced surgical solutions. Our team provides excellent service to patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collins counties. Contact our office at (469) 998-3668 for your foot and ankle solutions. Our office is at 4221 Medical Parkway, STE 450, in Carrollton, TX.

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