Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Nerve Pain in the Foot

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This nerve irritation can lead to pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the toes, sole, or heel. Symptoms may worsen with standing or walking and improve with rest. Common causes include flat feet, swelling, varicose veins, cysts, or injury. Diagnosis is based on a clinical exam and may be supported by imaging such as ultrasound or MRI scans to identify nerve compression. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms, determine the underlying cause, and develop a treatment plan that may include footwear changes, orthotics, or other interventions. If you have persistent foot pain or numbness, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for expert care and a personalized treatment plan.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. 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 Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

The Role of a Podiatrist in Foot and Ankle Health

A podiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet and ankles. This type of doctor plays an important role in promoting foot health, improving mobility, and supporting overall wellness. Podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including injuries, infections, deformities, and chronic pain. This type of doctor also plays a key role in diabetes care by monitoring circulation, nerve health, and skin integrity to help prevent ulcers and serious complications. Through regular exams, education, and preventive care, podiatrists help patients stay active and independent. If you are experiencing foot pain, changes in sensation, or difficulty walking, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist to improve comfort and protect your feet.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Easing Hammertoe Pain Through Professional Podiatric Care

Hammertoes occur when the small toes bend abnormally, creating pressure points that lead to irritation, inflammation, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. As the deformity progresses, corns and calluses often form over the raised joints, increasing discomfort and limiting mobility. A podiatrist can relieve pain by addressing both the symptoms and the underlying mechanics of the foot. Treatment may begin with trimming or reducing thickened skin, applying protective padding, or recommending custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure on the affected toes. In some cases, splinting or taping can help position the toe more comfortably and slow the progression of the deformity. If hammertoe pain becomes persistent or if the toe becomes rigid, minimally invasive or surgical correction may be the most effective option to restore function and relieve discomfort. If you are experiencing hammertoe pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to ensure targeted care that is designed to improve comfort and support long-term foot health.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?

Reasons for Cold Feet

Cold feet are a common concern and may occur when blood flow or nerve function is affected. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to narrow, reducing warmth in the feet. Stress may also trigger vascular changes that limit circulation and contribute to a cold sensation. Poor circulation from vascular conditions can prevent enough warm blood from reaching the feet, leading to persistent coldness and discomfort. Additionally, nerve disorders may interfere with normal temperature sensation, making feet feel cold even when they are warm to the touch. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, color changes, or an aching feeling in the feet and toes. A podiatrist can help by evaluating circulation, nerve health, and foot structure to identify the underlying cause. If your cold feet are accompanied by pain or numbness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief tips.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. 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 Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

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