Why does my heel hurt the most when I get out of bed in the morning?

Morning heel pain is often linked to plantar fasciitis, a common condition caused by inflammation in the foot’s arch. A podiatrist can help with long-term relief.

Do I need a podiatrist or an orthopedist for foot pain?

Podiatrists are foot and ankle specialists trained to treat everything from skin and nail issues to complex injuries and surgery. NES offers both podiatry and orthopedic care, depending on your needs.

Can a podiatrist help with broken toes or foot fractures?

Yes. NES podiatrists diagnose and treat foot and ankle fractures, offering imaging, bracing, casting, or surgery — all in-house.

How long should I wait before seeing a podiatrist for foot or ankle pain?

If your pain lasts more than a few days or keeps coming back, it’s time to see a podiatrist. NES offers same- and next-day appointments.

Who is the closest podiatrist who can see me today for ankle pain?

NES has multiple Portland-area podiatry locations and often offers same-day appointments. Use our booking tool to find the nearest available provider.

Nail & Skin Care in Portland for Healthier, Happier Feet

Your feet are your foundation, and their skin and nails are the barriers that protect you from bacteria and viruses. If the skin and nails of your feet aren’t healthy, everything from walking to wearing shoes can become progressively more uncomfortable or painful. At Northwest Extremity Specialists, we offer expert skin and nail care, whether you’re struggling with persistent discomfort, visible changes, or an issue that just doesn’t seem to heal.

Our comprehensive in-house services range from quick procedures to advanced treatment options, and our Portland-area podiatrists provide compassionate, accessible care to restore your feet’s appearance, function, and comfort.

Foot Skin & Nail Conditions We Treat

NES podiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of nail and skin concerns that affect the feet. Some of the most common include:

Cracked Heels (Heel Fissures)

Dry, thick skin on the heels can crack under pressure, leading to pain, bleeding, and an increased risk of infection, especially in patients with diabetes. Our podiatrists offer specialized care and guidance to treat, prevent, and maintain soft, healthy skin.

Skin Cancers (Including Melanoma)

If you notice a mole or dark spot on your foot that’s changing in size, shape, or color, it’s important to have it checked. Early evaluation could be lifesaving; our doctors are trained to recognize concerning lesions and guide you down the proper path to treatment, recovery, and peace of mind.

Athlete’s Foot & Dry, Irritated Skin

Fungal infections like athlete’s foot or conditions like eczema can cause itchiness, redness, and scaling. We can help you identify the cause of your athlete’s foot and clear it up with effective at-home treatments.

Ingrown Toenails

Painful, swollen, or infected nail edges can make it hard to wear shoes or walk comfortably. We provide in-office relief with minor procedures and medical-grade pedicures that offer near-instant pain relief and long-term prevention options.

Fungal Toenails

Dry, thick skin on the heels can crack under pressure, leading to pain, bleeding, and an increased risk of infectiThickened, yellow, or brittle toenails may be caused by a fungal infection that’s difficult to treat with over-the-counter products. NES offers advanced laser therapy—a fast, safe option that targets the infection at its source with no downtime.on, especially in patients with diabetes. Our podiatrists offer specialized care and guidance to treat, prevent, and maintain soft, healthy skin.

Corns, Calluses & Pressure Buildup

Hard skin caused by friction or poorly fitting shoes can make walking or running uncomfortable and difficult. We treat corns and calluses safely in-office and help you choose footwear or orthotics that reduce their recurrence.

Warts

Foot warts can be painful, unsightly, and stubborn to treat at home. We offer clinical removal options to eliminate them effectively and help prevent their spread.

Non-Healing Wounds & Diabetic Ulcers

Even small foot wounds can become dangerous if you have diabetes or circulation issues. NES provides urgent care for at-risk feet, helping prevent infections and complications.

Taking Care of Your Skin and Nails Year-Round

Your feet face a lot, especially during the warmer months. Sandals, sun exposure, and sweaty environments can leave your skin dry, cracked, and vulnerable to infection. Whether you’re walking barefoot at the beach or squeezing into snug summer shoes, small irritations can turn into bigger issues fast, especially for individuals with diabetes, circulation challenges, or active lifestyles.

But the need for foot care doesn’t end with summer. Year-round, your feet carry the weight of your day, and they deserve the same attention you give to your face, hands, or joints. Staying on top of your foot health will help prevent problems before they occur, which is one of the smartest ways to stay mobile, confident, and pain-free.

Smart Foot Care Tips for Healthy Feet

A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your feet healthy and protected all year:

Wear moisture-wicking socks and supportive footwear
This helps reduce friction, prevent fungal infections, and protect joints and arches.
Avoid walking barefoot in public places
Pools, locker rooms, and saunas are prime environments for athlete’s foot and toenail fungus.
Moisturize daily, especially after bathing
Keeping skin hydrated helps prevent painful cracking, calluses, and heel fissures.
Apply sunscreen to your feet
Don’t forget the tops—and even the soles—when you’re out in the sun.
Pay attention to changes
Redness, swelling, thickening nails, or skin texture changes can be early signs of trouble.

If something doesn’t feel or look right, don’t wait to seek care. At NES, we’re here to provide expert foot and ankle treatments that keep you one step ahead of discomfort all year.

Get the Expert Skin and Nail Care You Deserve

Whether you’re dealing with a recurring nail issue, painful cracked heels, or simply want to feel confident in your own skin, Northwest Extremity Specialists offers fast, effective nail and skin solutions that fit your feet like your favorite shoes.

We offer services like nail debridement, thick toenail trimming, custom orthotics, and more. Get the treatment you need from an outstanding team that cares about your comfort and mobility.

Call us or book online today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward healthier, happier feet.