Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when a nerve becomes compressed near the inside of the ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow passage called the tarsal tunnel. It then divides into branches that serve the bottom of the foot. Pressure in this area can cause pain behind the inner ankle or along the heel, arch, and sole. Symptoms also include burning, tingling, or numbness that reaches the toes. The discomfort usually worsens while standing or walking, but it can also disrupt sleep or other daily activities.

Several problems can place pressure on the nerve. Causes include a cyst, swelling, or scar tissue within the tunnel. An ankle injury or a foot deformity can narrow the space around the nerve. Flat feet can increase strain by changing the position of the ankle and foot. Arthritis, poor vein function, and swollen ankle tendons are other possible factors. A podiatrist begins the evaluation by asking about symptoms and examining the foot. Gentle pressure or tapping below the inner ankle may produce tingling, which can help locate the irritated nerve.

A podiatrist can also assess foot structure, joint motion, and areas of swelling. Nerve tests can measure how well electrical signals travel through the affected area. Imaging can reveal a cyst or another growth that is pressing on the nerve. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure and supporting better foot alignment. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics, apply supportive strapping, or recommend an appropriate brace. In certain cases, an injection can reduce inflammation around the nerve. When a growth causes compression or other care does not bring enough relief, surgery can create more room for the nerve. Early evaluation can help prevent continued nerve irritation and guide treatment toward the underlying cause. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.

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 tendonitis
• 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 offices located in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper shoe fit is essential both for maintaining foot health and preventing pain. Wearing the correct shoe size supports natural foot alignment and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. A proper fit means the shoe provides enough space for the toes, a secure heel, and adequate support for the arch. Many people wear shoes that are too tight or too loose, which can lead to discomfort and long-term issues. Understanding how to fit shoes correctly helps reduce the risk of foot problems and improves daily comfort.

Symptoms of poorly-fitted shoes often include foot pain, blisters, and pressure points. Wearing tight shoes can compress the toes and lead to conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. Loose shoes may cause the foot to slide, creating friction and instability. Some individuals experience arch pain or heel discomfort due to lack of support. These symptoms can worsen with continued use of improperly fitted shoes, and may affect walking and posture.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of wearing the wrong shoe size. Not having feet measured regularly is a common issue, as foot size can change over time. Shopping early in the day may result in selecting shoes that feel tight later, since feet tend to swell in the afternoon. Failing to try on both shoes or ignoring width can also lead to poor fit. The main cause of many foot problems is improper sizing, which places uneven pressure on the foot structure.

To ensure a proper fit, it is best to visit a store and have both feet measured in the store. Shopping in the afternoon allows for a more accurate fit when feet are slightly expanded. Walking in the shoes before purchasing helps confirm comfort and stability. If you have foot pain from wearing shoes that do not fit right, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief solutions, and additional guidance tips.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without 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.

A broken ankle is an injury that occurs when one or more bones in the ankle are cracked or fractured. The ankle is made up of several bones, ligaments, and tissues that work together to support movement and balance. A fracture can happen from a fall, sports injury, accident, or sudden twisting motion. Ankle fractures can affect a person’s ability to stand, walk, and complete daily activities comfortably. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Some patients may notice changes in the appearance of the ankle or a feeling of instability. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury and determine the severity of the fracture.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to understand the extent of an ankle fracture and how it affects foot and ankle function. The evaluation includes reviewing the injury, checking movement, and assessing the condition of the surrounding tissues. Imaging tests may be used to view the bones and identify the location of the fracture. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan based on the type of fracture, the patient’s health, and activity needs. Treatment includes methods to support proper healing, protect the injured area, and restore ankle function. 

Research shows that ankle fractures can affect mobility and long-term joint function, making proper diagnosis and treatment important. A podiatrist helps patients understand their injury and creates a plan focused on restoring strength, stability, and movement. Care may involve monitoring healing progress and addressing changes in foot mechanics after the injury. A podiatrist also evaluates how the ankle is functioning because changes in movement can affect other areas of the foot and lower body. Treatment plans are personalized according to each patient’s condition and recovery goals. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropractor for diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

Cuboid syndrome is a condition that affects the cuboid bone, which is located on the outer side of the foot. This small but important bone plays a key role in stabilizing the foot and supporting proper movement during walking and running. It acts as a connector between the midfoot and the outer column of the foot, helping to maintain balance and absorb force. When the cuboid becomes misaligned or irritated, it can lead to pain and reduced mobility.

Symptoms of cuboid syndrome often include sharp or aching pain along the outer edge of the foot. Individuals may notice discomfort when bearing weight, walking, or pushing off during activity. Swelling, tenderness, and weakness in the foot may also occur. Risk factors include repetitive strain, ankle sprains, wearing improper footwear, and activities that involve sudden directional changes. Athletes and individuals with flat feet or unstable gait patterns may be more prone to this condition.

The causes of cuboid syndrome are typically linked to mechanical stress or injury. A sudden inversion ankle injury can shift the cuboid out of its normal position. Overuse from high impact activities such as running or jumping can also contribute to irritation. Wearing unsupportive shoes may increase strain on the lateral foot and worsen symptoms. Understanding these contributing factors is important for both prevention and effective management.

The key takeaway is that cuboid syndrome can significantly impact daily movement if left untreated. Early recognition of symptoms and proper care can help restore function and relieve pain. Wearing supportive footwear and modifying activity play an important role in recovery. If you have pain in the outside of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.