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Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by repeated pressure on the posterior tibial nerve near the ankle. It can lead to debilitating symptoms such as pain, numbness, or tingling sensations, often radiating into the sole of the foot or inside the ankle. This compression occurs within the tarsal tunnel, which is a narrow passageway bound by bone and soft tissue. Tarsal tunnel syndrome's origins include severely flat feet, benign bony growths, and varicose veins. Inflammation from arthritis, lesions or masses near the tibial nerve, and trauma from ankle sprains or fractures also may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. Patients with conditions like diabetes are at further risk. Left untreated, tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause permanent and irreversible nerve damage that may affect mobility and hinder completing daily activities. If you suspect you may be experiencing symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan. 

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. 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 Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often targets the big toe and causes immediate and excruciating pain. Symptoms of gout include sudden swelling, pain, and redness, called flare-ups, and often occur during the night. It is caused by high levels of uric acid that form crystals in the joint. A podiatrist can conduct tests to measure uric acid levels and identify crystals in joint fluid. Treatment aims to alleviate acute flares, prevent further occurrences, and manage the condition long-term to avoid uric acid deposits in tissues. Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids help manage pain and inflammation during flares, while preventive daily treatments may be necessary for severe cases. Lowering uric acid levels is essential for long-term management, achieved through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes. A podiatrist can offer specialized foot-related care and comprehensive assessments, custom treatment plans, and progress monitoring for effective gout management. If you are experiencing gout symptoms in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you seek assistance from a podiatrist who can provide tailored care to alleviate discomfort and optimize management strategies.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

After a long walk or a vigorous run, it is not uncommon to notice a toenail that has turned black, blue, or gray, often accompanied by swelling underneath the nail. This phenomenon, known as a black toenail, is typically caused by bleeding beneath the nail, medically termed a subungual hematoma. The most common cause of black toenail is trauma, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it. It is also common among runners as the result of repetitive pressure as the toe hits the front of the shoe. A podiatrist can offer treatment options to alleviate discomfort from black toenail and aid in the healing process. For cases where the nail is significantly raised and painful, a procedure called trephination may be recommended, which involves creating a small hole in the nail to relieve pressure and facilitate drainage. Preventing black toenails involves ensuring proper footwear and sock fit, especially during physical activity. Shoes should allow for sufficient toe room to accommodate swelling, while proper lacing techniques can minimize toe trauma. If you have developed a black toenail that is causing pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an exam and the appropriate treatment measures.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

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 contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain affects many people due to the daily strain placed on their feet. While often attributed to heel spurs, the primary culprit is usually plantar fasciitis. Neglecting the intricate network of muscles in the feet can negatively affect any existing issues or cause new ones. Engaging in foot exercises to restore muscle length and enhance overall body balance can significantly alleviate heel pain. Also, the choice of footwear plays a pivotal role in foot health. Wearing worn out or unsupportive shoes can disrupt natural foot mechanics, leading to discomfort and potential injury. Regularly inspecting footwear, especially those used for physical activity, may help to decrease the risk of heel pain. Opt for shoes that provide adequate cushioning, support, and stability that helps maintain proper foot alignment. When heel pain persists despite these measures, seeking professional guidance from a podiatrist is imperative. This type of doctor can conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause of the discomfort and develop a personalized treatment plan. Custom orthotics may be prescribed as a way to regain comfort and mobility. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to manage heel pain.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gangrene, the consequence of compromised blood supply to the lower limbs and feet, occurs in three primary forms, which consist of dry, wet, and gas gangrene. Dry gangrene, stemming from arterial blockage, progresses slowly and necessitates vascular intervention for blood flow restoration. This type of gangrene is often seen in patients with arteriosclerosis or diabetes. Wet gangrene is caused by an infected wound that is left untreated. Wound care for gangrene involves surgical debridement to remove dead tissue and antibiotics to combat bacterial proliferation. Gas gangrene, caused by clostridia bacteria, requires aggressive debridement and targeted antibiotics to prevent systemic spread. A podiatrist plays an important role in managing gangrenous wounds in the lower limbs and feet to keep the condition from worsening. If you have ulcerated wounds that have turned gangrenous, it is strongly suggested that you seek prompt assessment by a podiatrist and get immediate treatment to avoid loss of limb. 

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our doctors from Advanced Foot & Ankle Medical Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Agoura Hills, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks Marin St., and Thousand Oaks Haaland Drive, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.