Items filtered by date: March 2024

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition affecting the feet and ankles, arises from compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, which is a narrow space on the inside of the ankle. Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, this ailment can lead to pain, tingling, and numbness in the affected area. The tibial nerve, responsible for sensory and motor functions of the foot and ankle, becomes compressed due to various factors such as injury, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Individuals with flat feet or those engaging in repetitive activities that stress the foot may also be at higher risk. Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include burning sensations, electric shock-like pain, and weakness in the foot. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, which often involves rest, can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. If you have pain on the inside of your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Jordan S. Steinberg, DPM of Florham Park Podiatry . Our doctor 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 office located in Florham Park, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot stress fractures, though difficult to recognize, can have a significant impact on daily life. Stress fractures, often caused by repetitive impact and overuse, cause localized pain in the affected foot. This pain typically worsens during weight-bearing activities but subsides with rest. Swelling and tenderness surrounding the injury site are common, sometimes accompanied by bruising. It is important to note that symptoms can be gradual, with pain developing over time as opposed to a sudden onset. As stress fractures can occur in various foot bones, the specific location of pain can offer insights into the affected area. Seeking professional medical evaluation from a podiatrist for persistent or worsening symptoms is important to prevent long-term complications. If feel you may have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can conduct an exam and prescribe treatment methods that are correct for you.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Jordan S. Steinberg, DPM from Florham Park Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Florham Park, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries, debilitating and often painful, stem from a variety of causes and risk factors. One primary cause is overuse or repetitive strain, particularly common among athletes engaged in high-impact sports like running or basketball. Sudden increases in training intensity or frequency can also strain the tendon, leading to microtears or inflammation. Additionally, inadequate stretching or warming up before physical activity can increase susceptibility to injury. Foot problems such as flat feet or high arches can further exacerbate the risk of Achilles tendon issues by altering biomechanics and placing uneven stress on the tendon. Tight calf muscles and poor footwear choices, lacking proper support or cushioning, can also contribute to strain on the Achilles tendon. Recognizing these underlying causes and addressing risk factors through proper conditioning, stretching, and footwear selection are essential steps in preventing Achilles tendon injuries and maintaining overall foot health. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can successfully treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jordan S. Steinberg, DPM of Florham Park Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Florham Park, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, pose several risks to foot health and overall well-being. This condition occurs when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. Flat feet can lead to a variety of issues, including foot pain, swelling, and fatigue, particularly after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Individuals with flat feet are more susceptible to overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and shin splints due to the altered biomechanics of the feet. Additionally, flat feet can contribute to misalignment of the ankles, knees, and hips, leading to discomfort and increasing the risk of developing osteoarthritis in these joints over time. Without proper support and management, flat feet can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer custom orthotics or other relief methods that are right for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jordan S. Steinberg, DPM from Florham Park Podiatry . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Florham Park, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.