February 2026
Risk Factors and Causes of Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, repetitive pressure, and trauma to the toe. Risk factors include genetic nail shape, diabetes, poor circulation, and participation in sports that stress the toes. Signs of an ingrown toenail include redness, tenderness, swelling, and, in severe cases, pus or drainage. If left untreated, the condition can lead to more serious infection and discomfort. A podiatrist can provide safe removal, recommend proper nail care techniques, prescribe medications for infection or inflammation, and offer preventive strategies. If you have signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes and Symptoms of Ankle Instability

Ankle instability refers to a recurring sense of weakness that makes the ankle feel unreliable during walking or activity. One cause of ankle instability is previous ankle sprains that damaged ligaments on the outer or inner side of the ankle. High arches or flat feet can also alter weight distribution and place added strain on stabilizing tissues. Muscle weakness, poor coordination, or nerve-related conditions may interfere with the body’s ability to respond quickly to uneven surfaces. In some cases, arthritis, scar tissue, or loose joint structures contribute to ongoing instability. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle alignment, ligament integrity, and gait mechanics to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may involve bracing, targeted exercises, footwear guidance, or advanced care to restore stability and reduce the risk of further injury. If it feels like your ankle is "giving way," it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes and Symptoms of Nerve Damage in the Foot

Pain in the ball of the foot can develop when nerves between the toes become irritated from pressure, stretching, or repeated friction. These nerves run between the long bones in the front of the foot and can enlarge over time, creating a thickened area called a neuroma. Most people notice a mild ache near the third or fourth toe that progresses to burning or tingling. Wearing narrow shoes, high heels, and flip-flops can increase pressure on the front of the foot, and some people feel as if a pebble is stuck under the toes. As nerve irritation progresses, closed-toe shoes often become difficult to wear. A podiatrist can examine the foot, assess posture, and recommend proper footwear or pads. In some cases, injections or surgery are considered to relieve pain. If you are experiencing pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
An Overview of Corns and Foot Health

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction on the feet. They often appear as small hardened bumps and may cause pain or tenderness, especially when walking. Common symptoms include discomfort, redness, and sensitivity in the affected area. Corns are often caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, abnormal foot structure, or repetitive motion. Risk factors include high arches, toe deformities, and prolonged standing or walking. There are different types of corns, including hard corns that form on the tops or sides of toes and soft corns that develop between toes where moisture is present. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can safely remove corns, address underlying causes, and recommend proper footwear or custom orthotics.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.







