(727) 527-1249Blog
Why Do My Feet Hurt?
There are many reasons why your feet may be hurting, ranging from small injuries to systemic conditions that affect the feet. One of the most frequent causes of foot pain is wearing improperly fitted shoes. These include shoes that are too tight or narrow, shoes with excessively high heels, and shoes that do not adequately support and protect your foot. Fixing foot pain related to footwear is often as easy as changing your shoes. Sports and exercise-related injuries to the feet are also common and will often require activity modifications to reduce foot pain. Systemic conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis, can cause foot pain. Fortunately, the effects of these conditions on the feet can be managed with proper care. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Three Essential Features of a Good Walking Shoe
If you are planning on walki
ng regularly for more than a half hour at a time, be sure to pick out a pair of walking shoes that have these three essential structural features for optimal cushioning and support. 1) Flexibility: choose a walking shoe that is bendable, allowing for your foot to flex during the rolling heel-to-toe walking stride. 2) Lightweight: a lighter shoe will make it easy to stay spry and energetic on long walks. 3) An Undercut Heel: Avoid flared or big heels that may interfere with the heel-to-toe walking stride and opt for an undercut or straight heel instead. For more information and recommendations on walking shoes that are right for your individual foot and walking style, consult with a podiatrist.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Walking Shoes vs. Running ShoesWhat Are Different Causes of Ankle Pain?
Pain can be felt immediately when an ankle injury occurs. The ankle joint typically supports the majority of the body weight, and many people often realize this when an ankle injury is endured. Research has indicated there are three bones that connect in the ankle joint. These are connected by several tendons and ligaments that protect the ankle joint. Many patients experience ankle pain through sprains or fractures in addition to arthritis, possibly causing chronic ankle pain. Symptoms of a broken ankle can include immediate bruising and swelling, and it can often become difficult to walk. Rolling or twisting the ankle can result in a sprain, which can be treated by numerous methods. If you have ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so they can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- 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 our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Happens When You Sprain Your Ankle?
Ligaments are strong, stretchy tissues that connect bones and also stabilize joints. Ligaments on the inside and outside of the ankle joint support the ankle and help stabilize it during up-and-down and side-to-side foot movements. An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of these ligaments become overly stretched or torn from a sudden movement, fall, or twist that knocks the ankle out of its normal position. Ankle sprains can occur while participating in sports, walking on uneven surfaces, or twisting your ankle wearing the wrong shoes. People who have had previous ankle sprains or weakened ankles due to genetics may be more prone to experiencing ankle sprains. Walking may prove challenging to a person with an ankle sprain, and they may experience pain, swelling, bruising, or joint stiffness. It is important to seek the care of a podiatrist for an ankle sprain in order to diagnose and treat any additional, more serious injury that may have occurred, as well as to facilitate proper and prompt healing and rehabilitation to avoid chronic ankle instability.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ankle Sprains and High School Sports
One in six of all high school sports injuries are sprained ankles, making them the most common injury among this age group. The site of most of these sprains is the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), which is the band of connective tissue on the outside of the ankle. One of the ways the ATFL can become sprained is when an athlete’s center of gravity shifts over the outside of the weight-bearing leg, which can cause the ankle to roll inward quickly. Sporting activities with the highest occurrence of ankle sprains are girls’ gymnastics, girls’ basketball, and boys’ basketball. If a child experiences one ankle sprain, they may be more at risk of a future ankle sprain, particularly if they are involved in a sport where there is repeated jumping and landing. Even though some people may not view ankle sprains as a serious or significant injury, it is important to seek professional treatment from a podiatrist to help the ankle heal properly and regain strength, while lessening the risk of re-injury.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Reduce Pain Caused by Sever’s Disease
The painful foot condition known as Sever’s disease generally affects active children and adolescents between the ages of 8 and 14. The pain is said to increase during physical activity and can be felt in the bone at the back of the heel. This disease develops because of a growth spurt in which the bones grow faster than the muscles and tendons. That is why Sever's disease tends to occur in children and young teenagers, especially those who participate in running and jumping activities like basketball and soccer. One of the ways a podiatrist may relieve a portion of the pressure on the heel is by prescribing custom orthotics. Additionally, resting and icing the affected heel as well as performing gentle stretches may contribute to the pain subsiding. If your child is limping or complaining of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Read more about Sever's DiseaseFoot Conditions That Can Develop From Standing
Research has indicated a significant portion of the population stands for the majority of their work day. This can have an impact on the feet, and it can be beneficial to sit for short periods of time throughout the day. It may help to refrain from standing on hard surfaces, in addition to wearing shoes that fit correctly. It is important for shoes to have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and it may be wise to consider wearing custom made orthotics. There are several foot conditions that can develop from standing on your feet for hours including bunions, joint fatigue, and swelling. Speaking with a podiatrist may provide you with information on how to avoid painful foot conditions while standing, and it is suggested that you schedule a consultation.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Fungus Can Cause Plantar Warts
A lesion on the bottom of the foot may be referred to as a plantar wart. This is defined as a wart that grows inward, and can happen as a result of the pressure the feet endure on a daily basis. It is caused by a viral infection, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The fungus that often precedes this infection lives in warm environments, including public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. A plantar wart appears as a small, hardened area of skin that has black dots in the center. Patients have felt mild relief when a cushioned pad is used in the shoe, which may help to alleviate a portion of the pressure. If you have a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer the right treatments for you.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Dancers
If you are a dancer, you may be familiar with some of the foot and ankle injuries that dancers can incur. Some of the most common injuries among dancers include Achilles tendinitis, posterior impingement syndrome, FHL tenosynovitis, anterior impingement syndrome, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, lateral ankle pain, bunions, fractures, and metatarsalgia. All of these conditions can cause pain or instability in the feet and ankles, making it more difficult, and sometimes even impossible, to continue dancing. If you are a dancer and experiencing any sort of foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as possible.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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
- Plantar Fasciosis
- 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 feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Managing Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common overuse injury of the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. When this ligament becomes inflamed, it causes heel and arch pain and may impact your ability to perform daily activities and exercise. There are many potential treatments available for plantar fasciitis. Some effective treatments include taping the affected area and doing exercises to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia. For more information about plantar fasciitis and to find out which treatment option is right for you, please consult with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Plantar FasciitisMore...
Orthotics for Diabetics
Orthotic inserts are shoe inserts which can be worn to help manage a variety of foot and ankle conditions. People with diabetes are often prone to foot problems, especially diabetic foot ulcers and other slow healing wounds. These wounds usually form due to pressure and friction from the shoes. Both over-the-counter and custom orthotics may help prevent foot problems in people who have diabetes. Orthotic inserts can make walking more comfortable, reducing pressure and friction on the feet by correcting for overpronation and evenly distributing body weight across the foot. To learn more about orthotics for diabetics, please consult with a podiatrist.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for AthletesHow Is the Ankle-Brachial Index Measured?
The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a screening tool used to identify peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation in the lower limbs. The ABI is a simple measure that involves taking the blood pressure at the arm and at the ankle and comparing the two numbers to determine the patient’s risk of having peripheral artery disease. This is most frequently done using a blood pressure cuff and a Doppler ultrasound instrument. Some doctors may do the ABI using an automated device instead. Regardless of the method used to obtain this reading, the ABI is quick, noninvasive, and virtually painless. If you suspect that you may have poor circulation in your feet and ankles, please consult with a podiatrist who can screen you for peripheral artery disease.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Can Anything Stop This Pain in the Ball of My Foot?
Morton’s neuroma occurs when tissues in the foot become thickened due to an injury, irritation, or excessive pressure on the nerves of the toes of the foot. Improperly-fitted shoes, high heels, high-impact activities, or even having a foot that is malformed can contribute to these nerves becoming damaged. Individuals with Morton’s neuroma can feel pain concentrated in the ball of the foot or between the 3rd and 4th toes, and may even experience a burning, tingling, or numbness. Podiatrists often treat Morton’s neuroma and reduce a patient’s pain with MLS Laser Therapy, which sends out multiple healing energy waves deep beneath the skin to repair nerves and tissues.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tendons, blood vessels, and nerves—such as the tibial nerve which provides feeling and mobility in the foot—travel through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. When the tibial nerve gets constricted or damaged, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can occur. This condition produces tingling or numbness, pain, and a weakening in muscles and various parts of the foot. It can be triggered by swelling, abnormal growths in bones and joints, varicose veins, abnormal arches, and various systemic diseases. A complete recovery is possible if the condition is diagnosed and treated in its early stages. To avoid permanent complications such as pain, numbness, and immobility, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can provide a variety of treatments and therapies.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
- Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
- The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
- If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.