Items filtered by date: January 2024

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, abbreviated TTS, is a relatively rare but painful condition involving the compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the inside of the ankle. The tarsal tunnel is enclosed by bone and ligaments, and when pressure is exerted on the tibial nerve within this space, it can lead to TTS. The exact causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome can vary, but common factors include injury or trauma to the ankle, such as sprains or fractures, which may lead to swelling and compression of the nerve. Overpronation, where the foot rolls excessively inward, can also place additional stress on the tibial nerve. Other factors contributing to TTS may include systemic conditions like diabetes, which can result in nerve inflammation and entrapment. Recognizing the potential causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome is essential in seeking appropriate medical care and taking preventive measures to alleviate this painful condition. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Care Specialists. 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 our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are small fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin, and are a common ailment with multifaceted origins. Foot blisters typically arise from friction, where repetitive rubbing between the shoe and the skin causes layers of the epidermis to separate. Wearing ill-fitting footwear, especially when new or improperly broken in, is a primary catalyst for developing foot blisters. Intense physical activity or prolonged periods of standing can exacerbate the issue, as the feet endure heightened levels of pressure and moisture. Additionally, moisture itself, whether from sweat or wet conditions, softens the skin, making it more susceptible to blister formation. If you have a foot blister or if an existing foot blister has become infected, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Care Specialists. 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 our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain, though common, should not be dismissed. Various factors contribute to foot pain, such as fractures and sprains resulting from the complex structure of the feet. Seeking prompt intervention from a podiatrist after a foot injury is essential for effective treatment. Achilles tendonitis, inflammation of the tendon behind the heel, often stems from overuse in activities like sports. Hammertoes, a painful consequence of toe stress, may be alleviated with special footwear and in severe cases, surgical intervention. Heel spurs, caused by tissue overuse, may respond to gentle daily stretching, wearing proper footwear, and, in extreme situations, medical procedures such as corticosteroid injections or surgery. Metatarsalgia, inflammation on the ball of the foot, is common in active individuals as are corns, which are painful bumps resulting from toe crowding or tight shoes. Bunions, bony bumps at the base of the big toe, may necessitate surgery, with varying results depending on the severity. Plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, may be prevented through wearing proper footwear and warm-up practices. If you need medical help with any of these common causes of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. 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 our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's neuroma, a nerve disorder affecting the feet, emerges as a reality for many individuals seeking to understand the source of their discomfort. This condition is characterized by the thickening of tissues surrounding the nerves leading to the toes. It is not an actual tumor, as the name might suggest, but a response to nerve irritation and compression. Often occurring between the third and fourth toes, Morton's neuroma triggers a variety of symptoms, including sharp pain, burning sensations, and the feeling of having a pebble in the shoe. The causes of Morton's neuroma are multifaceted. Anything that exert constant pressure on the forefoot, such as wearing high-heeled shoes or engaging in certain activities, such as running, may contribute to the development of this condition. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Broken toes, a common yet painful condition, can affect a range of individuals, each vulnerable in their unique ways. Those engaging in physically demanding activities, such as athletes or individuals with high-impact occupations, are at an elevated risk due to the increased likelihood of accidental trauma. Individuals with weakened bones, often associated with conditions like osteoporosis, also face higher susceptibility to fractures from minor injuries. Accidents at home, whether stubbing a toe against furniture or dropping a heavy object on it, pose a risk for anyone. Symptoms of a broken toe include immediate pain, swelling, and bruising, accompanied by difficulty moving the affected toe. Sometimes, a visible deformity or a cracking sound may accompany the injury. Recognizing these symptoms is vital for seeking prompt medical attention and ensuring proper care to facilitate optimal healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can appropriately treat this condition.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Care Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chester, and Broomall, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.