A black toenail can develop when blood, debris, or pigment collects beneath or within the nail. Repeated pressure from wearing tight shoes can injure the toe, especially while running or hiking. A dropped object can also break tiny blood vessels under the nail and cause sudden pain, swelling, and dark color. Fungal infections sometimes thicken the nail and create debris that makes it look black. Natural pigment changes can produce dark streaks, particularly in people with darker skin. Less frequently, a black nail can point to diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease. It can also be a sign of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.

A podiatrist should examine a black toenail when its cause is unclear. An exam is also needed if the nail changes shape or discoloration does not grow out naturally. The podiatrist can determine whether discoloration comes from trapped blood, infection, or pigment. Testing a small nail sample can help confirm fungus. A tissue sample may be examined when the dark area has features linked to melanoma. Prompt evaluation is especially important when discoloration spreads onto nearby skin, if pain becomes intense, or if drainage develops. 

A podiatrist can make a tiny opening in an injured nail to release trapped blood and ease pressure. The doctor can remove damaged nail material or treat an infection. Suspicious pigment changes can be tested, and care with a skin-cancer specialist can be arranged. To reduce injury risk, choose well-fitting shoes with enough toe room and proper support. Keep toenails trimmed straight across. Protective shoes can help when work creates a risk of heavy objects falling on the feet. Regular foot checks make new color changes easier to notice. If you have toenails that appear black or discolored, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions develop when the big toe shifts toward the other toes and a bony bump forms at its base. This change can make shoes fit differently and can cause discomfort while walking or standing. Symptoms include pain, redness, and swelling around the affected joint. Some patients also develop corns or calluses. Movement of the big toe can become limited, and the area can feel numb or have a burning sensation. A smaller bunion, called a bunionette, can form near the little toe in a similar way.

Several factors can increase the chance of developing bunions. Genetics can play an important role because people can inherit foot features linked to bunion development. These features include flat feet or loose ligaments, which connect bones and support joints. Rheumatoid arthritis and the shape of the foot bones can also contribute. A previous foot injury can be another factor. Tight shoes and high heels do not directly cause bunions, but they can encourage their development in people who are already at risk. They can also make existing bunion symptoms worse.

A podiatrist can evaluate a bunion by examining foot structure, toe position, and joint movement. The assessment can also identify pressure points and determine how the bunion affects walking. Treatment can include custom orthotics, shoe recommendations, and padding to reduce pressure on painful areas. A podiatrist can monitor changes in the bunion and address corns or calluses linked to abnormal pressure. Severe bunions can contribute to bursitis, which is inflammation of a fluid-filled cushion near a joint. They can also lead to crossover toes or other toe changes. Surgery can correct a bunion when appropriate. If you have symptoms of bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Toe injuries from tennis are often the result of repetitive stress and sudden movements that place strain on the front of the foot. The definition of tennis toe involves damage to the toenail or surrounding tissue from repeated impact inside the shoe. Turf toe, on the other hand, is a joint injury that occurs when the big toe bends upward too forcefully. Both conditions are common in tennis due to the demands of quick footwork and constant movement across the court.

Common symptoms of tennis toe include pain beneath the nail, discoloration, and sensitivity when pressure is applied. Turf toe symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and pain near the base of the big toe. Players may notice difficulty pushing off or reduced flexibility in the toe joint. These symptoms can worsen with continued activity and may limit performance if not addressed. Early recognition of these signs is important for effective management.

Risk factors include frequent participation in tennis, wearing shoes that are too tight or loose, and playing on hard surfaces. Improper footwear can increase friction and pressure on the toes, leading to injury. Turf toe is more likely to occur when the toe is forced into an extended position during sudden stops or directional changes. Weak foot support and lack of conditioning may also contribute to increased injury risk.

Reducing the risk of toe injuries requires wearing proper footwear, good foot hygiene, and attention to technique. Shoes should provide a secure fit and adequate cushioning to absorb impact. Regular rest and conditioning can help maintain strength and flexibility. Addressing pain early can prevent more serious complications. If you have toe pain from tennis activities, it is suggested that you seek evaluation from a podiatrist for effective relief, management and prevention techniques.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As people age, the Achilles tendon naturally changes. This strong band of tissue connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and helps make walking, climbing stairs, and standing on tiptoe possible. Research shows that aging reduces the tendon's ability to handle repeated stress. Its fibers become less organized, blood flow decreases, and the tendon becomes less flexible. These changes increase the risk of pain, small tears, and complete ruptures. Age-related changes can also slow the body's natural healing process after an injury. While active adults can develop Achilles tendon problems, the risk becomes greater with advancing age because the tendon does not repair itself as efficiently. Pain and stiffness near the back of the heel can make daily activities more difficult and limit mobility.

Patients with age-related Achilles tendon problems can notice pain while walking, swelling, and tenderness above the heel. Some people also feel stiffness after resting or have difficulty pushing off the ground when taking a step. A podiatrist begins with a thorough examination to determine the cause of the pain and evaluate how well the tendon is working. Imaging studies, like ultrasound or MRI scans, can provide a clearer view of tendon damage when necessary. Early diagnosis helps identify whether the problem involves inflammation, small tears, or more advanced wear within the tendon. Understanding the condition allows the podiatrist to develop a treatment plan that matches the patient's symptoms and activity level.

A podiatrist offers several treatment options that focus on reducing pain, improving movement, and supporting tendon function. Treatment includes custom orthotics, stretching programs supervised by the provider, and advanced therapies that encourage healing. Patients also receive guidance about wearing shoes that provide proper support to reduce unnecessary strain on the tendon while walking. When tendon damage is severe and other treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery can become the best option to restore function. Addressing Achilles tendon problems early helps protect mobility and supports long-term foot and ankle health. If you have symptoms of age-related Achilles tendon problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropractor for diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.