A child may begin limping for many reasons, and it is important to identify the underlying cause. Common issues include a sprain from play, a splinter lodged in the foot, or painful blisters caused by friction from shoes. In some cases, a severe viral infection can lead to joint inflammation and discomfort that makes walking difficult. Risk factors include high activity levels, wearing poorly fitting footwear, minor unnoticed injuries, and recent illness. Limping may be accompanied by swelling, redness, tenderness, or reluctance to bear weight. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, diagnose the problem, and provide appropriate treatment to relieve pain and restore movement. If your child is limping, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM of Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and inflammation. This condition often affects the big toe and can become painful if left untreated. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth, and sometimes infection with drainage. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, injury, and genetic nail shape. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, excessive sweating, and activities that place repeated pressure on the toes. A podiatrist can safely remove the ingrown portion, treat infection, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include minor surgery.

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 Larry J. Kipp, DPM of Coastal Podiatry Center. 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 Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed or irritated. It is often caused by overuse, high-impact activity, or wearing improper footwear that places strain on the plantar fascia. Symptoms include sharp or aching pain in the heel, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. The foot may look normal, though mild swelling or tenderness can appear along the arch, and it can feel stiff, sore, or sensitive while walking or standing. A podiatrist can help by starting with a thorough examination and sometimes imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Treatment may include footwear adjustments, custom orthotics, targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the fascia, and anti-inflammatory care. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM  from Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body uses blood sugar and can develop due to genetic factors, lifestyle influences, or insulin resistance. Common symptoms include increased thirst, fatigue, slow healing, and changes in sensation. Diabetes can significantly affect the feet by reducing circulation and nerve function, which increases the risk of injury, infection, and ulcers. Proper foot care is essential, and includes checking feet daily, washing and drying them carefully, in addition to trimming the toenails straight across, and wearing shoes and socks while outdoors for protection. Early attention helps prevent complications. A podiatrist can monitor foot health, treat problems early, and provide guidance on proper footwear and care. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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