Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, the narrow space on the inside of the ankle. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot and ankle, often radiating into the toes. People most at risk for tarsal tunnel syndrome include those with flat feet, as the collapse of the arch can increase pressure on the nerve. It can also affect individuals with arthritis, diabetes, or a history of ankle injuries. Symptoms often include a burning sensation, sharp pain, or a feeling of pins and needles in the affected area. Diagnosis generally involves a physical examination, nerve conduction studies, and imaging tests to assess the severity. Treatment options range from rest and anti-inflammatory medications to orthotics and targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerve and prevent further damage. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of the podiatrists of Ark La Tex Foot & Ankle 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 Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot neuropathy, a condition affecting the nerves in the feet, presents several noticeable signs. Tingling or a pins and needles sensation is a common early indicator, often accompanied by numbness. Weakness in the feet may lead to difficulty with tasks like walking or standing. Some individuals with neuropathy may also experience loss of balance, making them prone to falls and accidents. Muscle cramping can occur, causing discomfort and interfering with normal movement. These symptoms often signal nerve damage or poor circulation, which may require medical attention. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you talk with a podiatrist who can help manage this condition.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of the podiatrists from Ark La Tex Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Numbness
Sensation loss
Prickling and tingling sensations
Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Morton's toe is a hereditary foot condition where the second toe appears longer than the first due to a shorter first metatarsal, which is the bone behind the big toe. This anatomical difference shifts pressure to areas of the foot not designed to bear it, leading to discomfort and various foot issues. Common symptoms of Morton's toe can include pain in the ball of the foot, calluses, and joint instability, which may extend to other areas like the hips or lower back. Relief typically involves non-surgical approaches, such as custom orthotics to redistribute pressure, targeted exercising to strengthen the foot, and footwear adjustments like choosing shoes with a wider toe box. These strategies aim to alleviate pain and improve foot function. In cases where conservative treatments are insufficient, surgery may be considered to correct the bone structure. If you have a painful toe abnormality, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
