Items filtered by date: September 2022

Tuesday, 27 September 2022 00:00

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that lies inside the ankle, next to the ankle bones. The tunnel is covered by a thick ligament that protects the arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves in the tunnel. The posterior tibial nerve within the tunnel is the focus of tarsal tunnel syndrome because it is the compression or squeezing of this nerve that produces symptoms along the path of the nerve running from the inside of the ankle into the foot. This condition is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, which occurs in the wrist. Both arise from the compression of a nerve in a confined space. Those with flat feet, varicose veins, ankle sprains, or arthritis are more at risk for developing tarsal tunnel syndrome since these things can compress the nerve. When one has this syndrome, they might experience tingling or burning sensations, numbness, and/or pain on the inside of the ankle or on the bottom of the foot. These symptoms can also extend to the heel, arch, toes, and even calf. They are often brought on by overuse of the foot. It is important to seek treatment before permanent nerve damage results. If you think you may have tarsal tunnel syndrome or pain that resembles these symptoms, see a podiatrist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Eugene Little, DPM of Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tuesday, 20 September 2022 00:00

Plantar Fasciitis Risk Factors

Plantar fasciitis is an extremely common foot affliction that affects a wide variety of different individuals of different backgrounds. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs through the arch of the foot. The plantar fascia can become swollen or inflamed when it is strained and overused. There are several risk factors of plantar fasciitis to be aware of that could increase the probability of developing this condition. For example, consistently wearing ill-fitting shoes, or footwear that offers little or no arch support, can increase your risk of plantar fasciitis. Additionally, if you are overweight or have gained a significant amount of weight in a short amount of time, this extra weight that you are putting on your feet could make the development of plantar fasciitis more likely. Lastly, running substantially long distances, particularly on uneven surfaces, can make one more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. Contact a podiatrist today for an appointment if you think that you have plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Eugene Little, DPM  from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Wednesday, 14 September 2022 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 13 September 2022 00:00

Ankle Pain at Night

Foot pain, no matter when it occurs during the day, can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. While it is common for individuals suffering from conditions like plantar fasciitis to experience foot pain at the very beginning of the day, others experience foot pain at night. For example, it is possible to experience ankle pain during the night, and can happen for several reasons. First, tarsal tunnel syndrome can create pain that's worse at night. When nerves in your ankle become compressed and pinched, tarsal tunnel syndrome can develop. Individuals can experience pain not just in the ankles but also numbness and discomfort on the soles of the feet. Since the pressure on these nerves is most potent at night, the pain is typically more acute at this time. If you experience ankle pain at night, it may be caused by nighttime foot cramps. Comparable to the nocturnal leg cramps that usually affect the calves, foot cramps work similarly and can cause shooting pains in the feet. Sometimes, foot cramps can create pain that travels up to the ankle. If you have pain in your ankle that is more noticeable at night, contact a podiatrist to help address the problem.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor 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
  • Bursitis
  • 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain
Wednesday, 07 September 2022 00:00

The Feet Can Develop Various Forms of Arthritis

Arthritis is a painful condition that can affect the feet. There are several forms of arthritis and each one can develop in different parts of the foot. Osteoarthritis can cause bony spurs on the bottom of the big toe as a result of damaged cartilage. This can often lead to bunions developing and many patients have to purchase wider shoes. Inflammation of the joints in the ball of the foot may be indicative of rheumatoid arthritis. This may result in ligaments that become loose which may help the bone to push against the skin of the sole. Mild relief may be felt when a portion of leather is placed in the shoe, and this may be helpful in moving the pressure to the center of the foot. An extremely painful form of arthritis is known as gout and can develop from genetic reasons or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These types of foods may cause excess uric acid and can lodge in the joints of the big toe. If you have foot pain, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose arthritis in the feet as well as offer treatment methods.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot

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