Blog

Plantar Wart Removal and What to Expect

Tuesday, 21 April 2026

Plantar warts are growths on the bottom of the foot caused by a virus that enters through small breaks in the skin. They can feel like stepping on a pebble and may become painful with pressure. Treatment depends on size, number, and how long they have been present. Over-the-counter options may help in early cases, but stubborn warts often need professional care. A podiatrist may use methods such as freezing, topical medications that break down the tissue, or gentle removal of thickened skin to reduce discomfort and improve treatment success. Sometimes more than one visit is needed, as these growths can be persistent. Keeping the area clean, dry, and protected can also support healing. If you notice a painful spot on the bottom of your foot that does not go away, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Painful Toenails

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

Various toenail conditions can lead to discomfort, often resulting from injury, infection, or underlying skin issues. One of the most common problems is an ingrown toenail, which can become increasingly painful if not addressed. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail border. The area may feel especially sore when pressure is applied, such as while wearing shoes, and infection may develop with drainage or warmth. Factors that contribute to this condition include trimming the nails too short, tight footwear, previous injury, or naturally curved nails. A podiatrist can assess the condition and recommend appropriate care. Treatment may involve removing the ingrown portion, providing guidance on proper nail trimming, or performing a minor procedure to help prevent recurrence. Prompt care can ease discomfort and reduce the risk of infection. If you have an ingrown toenail or other nail concerns, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Are Night Splints Helpful for Plantar Fasciitis?

Tuesday, 07 April 2026

Night splints are often used to help manage plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain. This condition develops when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch, becomes strained or irritated. Pain is usually worse in the morning because the tissue tightens overnight. Night splints hold the ankle in a gentle upward position so that the foot is kept slightly flexed toward the leg. This position helps maintain a stretch on the calf muscles and plantar fascia while sleeping. Traditional adjustable splints allow a wider range of stretch, while dorsal splints provide less stretch but may feel more comfortable. Research shows that both types can reduce pain and improve function with consistent use. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, assess foot structure and movement, and recommend the most appropriate splint and supportive treatment plan. If you are experiencing foot pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

Wednesday, 01 April 2026

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Pain Under the Big Toe Joint

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Pain under the big toe can be linked to irritation of the sesamoid bones, two small, round bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones sit inside a tendon, a strong band of tissue that helps bend the toe. They act like shock absorbers and help support body weight when walking and running. Repetitive pressure from high-impact sports, wearing tight shoes, foot injuries, or certain foot structures can lead to inflammation in this area, known as sesamoiditis. People may notice aching, swelling, tenderness, or difficulty pushing off while walking. Pain may develop gradually and worsen with activity or when wearing shoes that press on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can examine foot movement and order imaging tests to confirm the cause of pain. Treatment options include footwear guidance, protective padding, and custom orthotics to reduce pressure. If you have pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

Sudden increase in activity
Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Blog

Blog Archives