Items filtered by date: September 2024

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, also known as tibial nerve dysfunction or posterior tibial nerve neuralgia, is caused by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel on the inner side of the ankle. This nerve compression leads to pain, tingling, and numbness in the foot. Individuals with tarsal tunnel syndrome often experience symptoms on the sole and the toes, particularly the arch area. In severe cases, the discomfort may be aggravated by standing or walking. Tarsal tunnel syndrome may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately 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 Redwood Podiatry Group. 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 Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma, a painful condition affecting the foot, is caused by the thickening of nerve tissue usually between the third and fourth toes. This thickening leads to irritation and inflammation, which in turn causes discomfort and pain. The pain is typically felt in the ball of the foot and may radiate into the toes and is often described as a burning or sharp sensation. Risk factors include wearing tight, high-heeled shoes that compress the toes, engaging in high-impact sports, and having foot deformities like bunions or flat feet. Women are more frequently affected, due to footwear choices. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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 Redwood Podiatry Group. 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 Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot care is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing serious complications. Regular foot exams are critical as they help detect any issues early, such as sores, infections, or changes in foot structure, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with diabetes. Daily foot care is equally important, and this includes inspecting feet for any abnormalities, keeping them clean and moisturized, and trimming nails carefully to avoid cuts and infections. Adopting healthy foot habits, such as wearing well-fitting shoes and avoiding walking barefoot, significantly reduces the risk of injury and infection. By adhering to these practices, individuals with diabetes can manage their foot health effectively, preventing complications and promoting overall well-being. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this potentially dangerous condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions of the muscles in the foot, leading to intense pain and discomfort. Several factors can contribute to foot cramps. Inappropriate footwear, such as shoes that are too tight or lack proper support, can strain foot muscles and lead to cramps. Excessive physical activity, particularly without adequate warm-up or stretching, can also cause muscle fatigue and cramping. Dehydration is another common cause, as a lack of fluids impairs muscle function. An imbalance in electrolytes, such as potassium, calcium, or magnesium, can disrupt normal muscle contractions and trigger foot cramps. If you have frequent foot cramps that are causing difficulty in completing daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and guide you toward relief and treatment methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. 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 Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.