Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Its Causes

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. Causes can include injury, flat feet, swelling, or growths that put pressure on the nerve. Symptoms often involve tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot and ankle. Risk factors include repetitive stress, certain foot shapes, and medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, relieve nerve pressure, and recommend treatments such as orthotics, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you have persistent ankle or foot nerve pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. 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 Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Risks and Complications of Broken Ankles

A broken ankle is more than just a simple fracture. Without proper treatment, it can lead to long-term problems that affect mobility and quality of life. One possible complication is poor bone healing, which can result in chronic pain or joint instability. Damage to surrounding ligaments, tendons, or blood vessels may also occur, increasing recovery time and impacting function. Infections can develop after surgery or when the skin around the injury is damaged. Arthritis in the ankle joint is another potential long-term outcome, especially if the break involves the joint surface. Early and accurate treatment is essential to reduce these risks and promote full recovery. If you have suffered an ankle fracture or continue to experience pain and swelling after an injury, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. 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 Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Causes and Podiatric Care for Blisters on the Feet

Foot blisters are small fluid-filled sacs that develop on the skin, often due to friction from shoes, excessive moisture, or heat. Common causes include wearing new or ill-fitting footwear, prolonged walking or running, and burns. Athletes often get blisters from repetitive friction on their skin from shoes rubbing against the feet. Blisters can feel painful, tender, or irritated, especially when pressure is applied. Blisters may appear as clear, raised bumps, but if they become red, cloudy, or filled with pus, infection may be present. Symptoms like multiple blisters, spreading redness, warmth, or fever can signal a more serious condition that needs professional care. A podiatrist can safely drain large or painful blisters, treat any infection with antibiotics, and provide advice on blister prevention. They may also recommend protective padding or custom orthotics to reduce pressure and friction. If you have a bothersome foot blister, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Finding Relief for a Broken Pinky Toe

A broken pinky toe often results from direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping something heavy on it. This leads to pain, swelling, bruising, or a crooked appearance. Most fractures happen at the base of the pinky toe, though other foot injuries like sprains, dislocations, or stress fractures can produce similar symptoms. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check for signs of a fracture, and order X-rays if necessary. Treatment for may involve taping the pinky toe to a neighboring toe, using a stiff-soled shoe, or recommending limited weight-bearing with crutches. In some cases, a cast may be required to immobilize the area. Surgery might be considered when the bone fragments do not align properly or when multiple breaks occur. It is important not to ignore a suspected fracture, as doing so may increase the risk of long-term foot problems. If you have injured your pinky toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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