Items filtered by date: July 2023

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a foot condition that can be painful. The tibial nerve is found inside the tarsal tunnel, and an injury can cause this nerve to become compressed. It may also occur from having an abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or a bone spur. The tibial nerve is located in the ankle and allows movement and feeling in various parts of the foot. The tarsal tunnel lies in the back of the inside of the ankle, and when this nerve is irritated in this narrow tunnel, tarsal tunnel syndrome can develop. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this foot condition can consist of a tingling or numbing sensation on the sole of the foot, and the toes may be difficult to move. Treatment generally begins with resting the foot and eliminating any activities that can cause discomfort. Some patients choose to wear orthotics, which may help reduce some of the symptoms. If the pain is severe and daily activities are difficult to accomplish, surgery may be an option to enlarge the tarsal tunnel. If you have this syndrome, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is best for you.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. 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 Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people will develop athlete’s foot at some point in their lives. It is a common foot condition that can cause the skin on the soles of the feet to itch, crack, and appear generally unattractive. It may also affect the skin between the toes and can cause discomfort. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that lives in warm and moist areas. These can include locker rooms, public swimming pools and surrounding areas. The fungus can enter the body through small cracks in the skin, and it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of environments. Many people choose to seek relief from a podiatrist when their feet are unsightly and uncomfortable. A sample is often taken from the affected skin which can confirm athlete’s foot, and medication can be prescribed. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can help you with correct treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants.  our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Hiking can be a fun and challenging activity for nature lovers. It can be great exercise and provide one with the experience of stunning views and a huge sense of accomplishment. Most hikers have experienced some foot pain during a hike at some point in time. While blisters, plantar fasciitis, or hot spots can commonly befall hikers, other things like tendonitis can occur as well. Painful blisters are a common hiking problem. These are fluid-filled pockets that develop under the skin and are caused by friction. Blisters can easily come on from overuse and wearing boots that do not fit well. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the connective tissue that runs from the heels to the toes on the underside of the foot. It can make every step a hiker takes painful, particularly in the heel and arch of the foot. A hot spot is a signal that a blister is about to form. Foot pain prevention measures to take before a hike include training for the hike by doing aerobic exercise, and resistance training.  Also, practicing shorter hikes on similar terrain, wearing well-fitting hiking boots, using orthotic insoles, and wearing lightweight, breathable, and cushioned socks. When discomfort surfaces during a hike, stop to deal with it before it worsens. A foot care kit can be prepared beforehand and taken on hikes for this purpose. Simple things to include in such a kit are an extra pair of socks, athletic or duct tape, powder, and blister patches. If your foot pain from a hike persists or worsens, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem and provide treatment options.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

When your big toe feels numb, it is a cause of concern. This phenomenon usually signals a loss of blood delivery to the extremities, largely the result of a problem with the peripheral nerves. Numbness in the big toe can be an indicator that the circulatory system, which delivers oxygenated blood to the extremities, or the peripheral nervous system, has been compromised. The sensory nerves carry signals regarding touch, temperature, and pain to the spinal cord, which then carries the message to the brain. If this signal is blocked in some way, the toe fails to receive it and numbness occurs. Causes of numbness in the big toe include nerve compression, constricted blood circulation, vitamin B12 deficiency, and gout. Other causes are diabetes and bunions. In addition, advancing age, smoking, and obesity may be factors. Treatment for numbness in the big toe varies according to the cause. For guidance, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough exam and treatment options. 

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.