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Pain Relief for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The tibial nerve is located behind the bump on the inside of the ankle. The tarsal tunnel consists of a thick band of tissue, which houses the tibial nerve, arteries, and veins. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur when inflammation happens gradually, or from a sudden injury. Common symptoms can include a dull pain on the bottom of the foot, or a burning or tingling sensation. Some patients find mild relief when the affected foot is gently massaged. Additionally, performing specific stretches that can help to improve flexibility may be beneficial by allowing the tibial nerve to move within the tarsal tunnel. If you are afflicted with tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Conditions That Can Develop as Children Run Barefoot
Summer is the season when children like to remove their shoes and run barefoot. Despite the freedom and enjoyment this can provide, there may be foot ailments that can develop. These can include insect bites, blisters, minor cuts and bruises. Sweaty feet may be prevented when a foot powder is applied at the beginning of the day. Splinters can also be a common condition among children, and there may be effective herbal remedies that can be applied for prompt removal. If you would like additional information about effective treatment techniques for minor wounds on children’s feet, please confer with a podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Complications of Excessive Sweating in the Feet
Everybody sweats from their feet, but sometimes, the amount of sweat can be too much. Excessive foot sweat is an indicator of plantar hyperhidrosis, which is a medical condition where the sweat glands produce too much sweat in conditions that would not normally cause much sweating. If you have plantar hyperhidrosis, seeking treatment is recommended. This is because sweating excessively from your feet can lead to various complications. These can include an increase in the risk of developing cuts and breaks in the skin, which can lead to foot infections, such as athlete’s foot. Infections can be especially dangerous if you have other health problems that affect the feet, like diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or peripheral artery disease. Excessive foot sweat can also be embarrassing, leading to psychological distress and avoidance of certain social situations. To learn more about plantar hyperhidrosis and the treatments available for this condition, please speak with a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Toenail Fungus Can Cause Embarrassment
Toenail fungus is a foot condition that can be unsightly. Patients who have this ailment are often embarrassed by the appearance of their feet. It is considered to be contagious, and the fungus that causes the infection is found in public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. The toenail that is most likely to be affected is on the big toe, and one of the first symptoms can be the toenail turning yellow or white. The nail may gradually crumble and lift, and in severe cases, may fall off. If you have toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment option for you.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Can Happen to the Feet as a Result of Being Obese?
Heel pain may be increased in overweight patients. This can be a result of the added weight that the heels must endure, and chronic foot conditions may develop. The additional weight may cause obese patients to lose interest in exercising, yet exercise is an essential key to losing unwanted pounds. Some patients notice that their foot size has increased, or that their feet have become wider. Additionally, specific forms of arthritis may develop, which can include gout or osteoarthritis. Swelling, pain, and overall foot discomfort may be felt from the strain of the extra weight, in addition to plantar fasciitis and arthritis in the back of the foot. If you are overweight and are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is strongly recommended that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and effectively treat this type of pain.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia refers to pain that is in the ball of the foot. This term refers to the metatarsal bones that are in this area, and the pain is often a result of repetitive bursts that occur in this part of the foot and eventually overload the metatarsals. Pain over the top and sole of the foot between the 2nd and 4th toes is the most common sign of metatarsalgia. Often, this pain is worsened by pushing off while walking or running. If you are experiencing pain in the forefoot that may be metatarsalgia, it is important to consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist will check to make sure there is no other damage in the area and prescribe a treatment method. Treatment usually starts with rest and icing the foot, and may include medicine or orthotics.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Foot Stretches That May Benefit the Feet
There are many people worldwide who suffer from general foot pain. This may be partially or fully alleviated when frequent foot stretches are performed. A common and painful foot condition known as plantar fasciitis typically targets the heel and arch area. It may be beneficial to roll the bottom of the foot on a tennis ball, as this can help to stretch the plantar fascia. Swelling and redness are often symptoms that accompany a bunion, and it may feel better to stretch the toes. People who have jobs that require standing for the majority of the day and experience sore feet may benefit from elevating the feet as often as possible, in addition to massaging areas of the foot that are painful. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, please consult with a podiatrist
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
- Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
- Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
- Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
- Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Defining and Treating Plantar Fasciitis
One common source of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting the heel to the bottom of the foot, is inflamed. Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp heel pain, pain after resting, heel tenderness, pain while flexing, and tingling or burning in the bottom of the foot. Upon experiencing symptoms, it is important to visit a podiatrist. During the exam, a podiatrist will examine any swelling, tenderness and pain points. After the examination, your podiatrist will suggest a variety of treatment options that can include rest, orthotics, stretching, icing, and massages. Medicine may also be prescribed. If you think that you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
More...
What are the Benefits of Foot Massages?
There are many people who are aware of and enjoy the benefits of foot massages. Research has indicated they may help to promote a more restful sleep, in addition to improved blood circulation, and general aches and pains may be relieved. Pregnant women find it can help to reduce swelling in the feet and ankles, and menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, may be decreased. Patients enjoy the relaxing sensation when warm oil is used during the massage, while pressing underneath each toe. If you would like to know more about the benefits of getting regular foot massages, please confer with a podiatrist who can advise you on what type of foot therapy is right for you.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Types of Running Shoes
Understanding the type of running shoe that is best for you is key in helping prevent future injuries. There are three primary types of running shoes. Neutral running shoes offer extra midsole padding for those with high arches. Stability running shoes are designed to distribute impact for those with low or flat arches. Motion control running shoes have extra support for those with flat feet as well. There are a variety of methods to assess what kind of shoes are needed. Placing your foot in water and stepping to analyze the foot print can help to determine whether or not you have low, normal or high arches. Checking your gait type to see what part of the foot touches the ground as well as checking the treadwear on your running shoes can help in indicating what type of shoes you need. If you have further questions about picking the right running shoe, consult with a podiatrist for help.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
To Pop or Not to Pop (Your Blister)
If you have a blister on your foot, you may feel tempted to pop the fluid-filled pocket under your skin. Should you? The general consensus is that you probably shouldn’t. A blister is filled with serum, the liquid part of your blood that contains protective substances like antibodies. Popping or draining your blister removes the serum and makes a hole in your skin, opening the area up to infection. Popping the blister can also cause more pain than simply having an intact blister on your foot. Additionally, it is very important to avoid popping your foot blister if you have diabetes, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, swollen legs, venous ulcers, or a condition that affects your immune system, as these things can increase your chances of getting an infection. If you have a painful foot blister, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Possible Reasons Gout Can Occur
The medical condition that is known as gout can cause severe pain and difficulty walking. It generally affects the joints in the big toe, and may cause swelling and redness. It can develop as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream, which can occur for various reasons. These can include genetic factors, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. Elevated levels of purines can be found in specific foods such as red meat, shellfish, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. To determine the severity of gout, fluid is removed from the affected joints and observed for uric acid crystals. It is strongly recommended that a podiatrist be consulted if you are afflicted with gout.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
