Items filtered by date: August 2025

When an ingrown toenail keeps coming back or causes significant pain, treatment often moves beyond simple soaks and shoe changes. Partial nail avulsion is a common procedure where a podiatrist removes the offending edge to relieve pressure and allow the skin to heal. In some cases, a small amount of the nail root is treated with a chemical or laser to prevent regrowth in that section. For nails distorted by trauma or fungal infection, reconstructive techniques can restore a smoother edge and reduce future irritation. Persistent inflammation may be addressed with targeted medication to calm tissue and prevent infection. These approaches aim to correct the problem at its source rather than just relieve symptoms. If ingrown toenail discomfort, swelling, or infection continues despite initial care, a podiatrist can recommend the most effective option for lasting relief.

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 Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino 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 offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Selecting the proper long-distance running shoes is essential for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. Look for shoes that offer ample cushioning to absorb impact and reduce strain on joints during repetitive motion. Proper support is also important, especially for those with flat feet or high arches, to maintain alignment and reduce fatigue. Road running shoes should provide a durable, lightweight design with breathable materials and a snug, stable fit. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait, and training habits to recommend the best shoe type or prescribe custom orthotics. If you have endured a foot injury from wearing the wrong type of running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot injuries. This type of doctor can also guide you on how to purchase shoes for your desired running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle, becomes compressed. This can cause burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot and ankle. The condition may be linked to injury, swelling, flat feet, or underlying health issues that create pressure on the nerve. Symptoms often worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. Wearing supportive footwear, orthotics, and activity modification can help reduce irritation. In some cases, anti-inflammatory treatments are recommended to relieve nerve compression. Ignoring early signs can lead to more persistent discomfort and nerve damage, over time. Protecting foot health through proper support and early intervention can make a significant difference in long-term comfort. If you experience ongoing foot or ankle pain, tingling, or numbness, it is suggested that you seek evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Caring for feet becomes even more important with age. Seniors often experience thinning skin, reduced circulation, and changes in foot shape that make them more vulnerable to discomfort, injury, and infection. Even simple tasks like trimming toenails or checking for calluses can become more difficult. Regular foot care helps prevent complications such as fungal infections, ulcers, and falls caused by poor balance. Wearing supportive footwear and clean, dry socks can also make a big difference in maintaining foot health. Daily checks for changes in skin color, swelling, or pain are especially important for seniors with diabetes or circulatory issues. If walking becomes uncomfortable, if nails appear thickened or discolored, or if wounds take longer to heal, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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