Do you have a foot problem that you’ve had for years that’s getting worse, or just simply won’t go away? Unfortunately, there are many common foot problems we at Syracuse Podiatry see that are recurring, which means that without proper treatment, there’s a good chance they’ll come back. In today’s blog, we’ll talk about 6 of them, from ingrown toenails to Achilles tendonitis.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are notorious for recurring. The problem is, if you push the corner out or improperly trim it, the nail’s growth pattern isn’t corrected. As the nail grows back, it often continues to dig into the skin in the same spot, which only furthers the pain and irritation.

Without addressing the underlying cause, which could be improper trimming technique, consistently tight shoes, or even a genetically curved nail, the cycle will continue.

Chronic Ankle Instability

Following a significant ankle sprain, some people develop chronic ankle instability. This means the ligaments that stabilize the ankle joint have been stretched or torn and haven’t healed properly, so every time the ankle rolls or twists, it sets you up for another sprain.

This constant cycle of re-injury prevents full healing and can even accelerate the development of osteoarthritis in the ankle joint over time.

Athlete’s Foot and Nail Fungus

Fungal infections are incredibly common and frustratingly recurrent. If your socks aren’t changed regularly, shoes aren’t allowed to dry out, or you don’t practice hygiene in communal areas, these infections can easily return.

Corns and Calluses

Those hardened, thickened patches of skin, known as corns and calluses, are your body’s way of protecting itself from repeated friction and pressure. While it’s tempting to shave them down or use over-the-counter remedies, they’ll almost always return if the underlying cause isn’t addressed.

This is because they stem from ill-fitting shoes that rub or squeeze or from foot deformities like bunions that create abnormal pressure points. Without removing the source of friction – whether it’s changing your footwear, using padding, or correcting a deformity – your skin will simply continue to thicken as a defensive mechanism.

Morton’s Neuroma

High heels, tight-fitting shoes that squeeze the forefoot, or repetitive high-impact activities can continually compress the sensitive nerve. Without changing these factors or exploring targeted treatments like custom orthotics to relieve pressure, the nerve irritation tends to flare up again and again.

Achilles Tendonitis

This condition frequently recurs because runners or active people might push through the pain often doesn’t allow sufficient healing time. If tight calf muscles, sudden increases in training intensity, or inappropriate footwear aren’t corrected, the tendon remains under constant strain.

For advice concerning any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, the expert team at Syracuse Podiatry is here to help guide you. Contact us today so Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and Dr. Nicholas Cronin can elevate your foot health and help your feet feel their best.