Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the tibial nerve, located near the ankle, becomes compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space inside the ankle. This can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the foot and ankle, often radiating into the toes. Symptoms may worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. A podiatrist diagnoses tarsal tunnel syndrome through a physical examination, reviewing the patient’s symptoms, and conducting tests, such as nerve conduction studies or imaging, to identify nerve compression. Treatment usually begins with conservative methods like rest and targeted stretching exercises to alleviate pressure on the tibial nerve. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and in severe cases surgery may be needed to release the compressed nerve. If you have symptoms as described, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer relief that will restore function to the affected foot.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Community Foot 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 contact our offices located in Beavercreek, Dayton, and Vandalia, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Maintaining Foot Health in Older Adults

As people age, changes in circulation, skin texture, and joint flexibility can make the feet more vulnerable to discomfort and injury. Common concerns for seniors include dry skin, thick toenails, corns, calluses, and swelling. Chronic conditions such as diabetes or arthritis can further increase the risk of infection, ulcers, or mobility issues. Regular foot inspections are important for spotting early signs of irritation or sores that may not heal easily. Wearing supportive, properly fitted shoes help maintain balance and reduce the risk of falls. Keeping the skin moisturized, trimming nails safely, and elevating the feet to reduce swelling all promote comfort and circulation. Healthy feet help older adults stay active, independent, and confident in their daily lives. If you are a senior, or taking care of a senior, it is suggested that you schedule routine visits with a podiatrist to ensure that any developing problems are treated promptly.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Community Foot Specialists. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

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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!

Heel Pain From Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes irritated or strained. This band, called the plantar fascia, helps support the arch of the foot. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause sharp pain that is often worse first thing in the morning, or after long periods of inactivity. Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, although it is more common in people who spend a lot of time on their feet, wear unsupportive shoes, or have flat feet or very high arches. While the condition can be stubborn, it often improves with proper treatment. Rest, targeted stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics may ease symptoms, and a podiatrist can recommend additional therapies, if needed. If heel pain is interfering with your daily life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

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 Community Foot Specialists. 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 our offices located in Beavercreek, Dayton, and Vandalia, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Can My Baby Develop an Ingrown Toenail?

A toenail that grows into the skin on the sides of the toe is known as an ingrown toenail. Research has shown that a baby's toenails are soft and pliable, and if it is accompanied by swelling and redness, it may be an ingrown toenail. Additional symptoms of this condition can include pain and difficulty keeping shoes on. Some of the reasons this ailment may occur can consist of trimming the toenails incorrectly, wearing shoes that are too tight, and it may run in families. Your child’s foot may feel better when it is soaked in warm water, and the swollen area is gently massaged. If your child has these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Community Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

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