Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when a nerve on the inside of the ankle becomes squeezed or irritated as it passes through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel. This is similar to wrist pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. The tunnel is formed by bone and strong bands of tissue that protect the nerve. When pressure builds inside this area, pain and other symptoms occur. Patients frequently notice burning, tingling, or numbness that starts near the inside of the ankle and travels into the heel or the bottom of the foot. Some people also feel sharp pain while walking or standing for long periods of time. Eventually, discomfort can continue even while resting. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can result from swelling, a cyst, arthritis, or changes in foot structure that place extra pressure on the nerve. 

A podiatrist begins by asking about symptoms and examining the foot and ankle. Gentle pressure over the affected nerve can reproduce tingling or pain that travels into the foot. The podiatrist also checks strength, feeling, and movement to look for signs of nerve irritation. Imaging tests, like an MRI scan, can reveal swelling, cysts, or other problems pressing on the nerve. Nerve tests can measure how well signals travel through the affected area. An accurate diagnosis is important because tarsal tunnel syndrome can resemble other conditions, including plantar fasciitis, and each problem requires a different treatment plan.

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure on the affected nerve and correcting the cause whenever possible. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics that improve foot alignment or prescribe a brace that reduces stress on the nerve. Treatment also includes injections when inflammation is present. Early care can help prevent lasting nerve damage and improve comfort while walking and standing. If you have inner ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

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 ABC Podiatry. 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 office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot affects individuals with diabetes and involves damage to the feet due to poor circulation and nerve impairment. Diabetes is often called Iceberg disease or Silent disease because many complications develop gradually without clear early warning signs. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, especially in the lower extremities. This can reduce sensation and limit blood flow, making it harder for the body to heal even minor injuries. Understanding diabetic foot is essential for preventing complications and maintaining overall foot health.

Symptoms of diabetic foot may include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or a loss of feeling in the feet. Some individuals may notice slow healing wounds, or swelling. Because nerve damage can reduce pain sensation, injuries may go unnoticed and worsen over time. Causes of diabetic foot are linked to prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the vascular and nervous systems. Reduced circulation limits oxygen delivery to tissues, while nerve damage affects the ability to detect injury or pressure. This combination creates a higher risk of infection and tissue damage.

Risk factors for diabetic foot include poor blood sugar control, and wearing poorly-fitting shoes that create pressure points or friction. Additional risks involve smoking, limited mobility, and a history of foot ulcers or infections. High risk of infections is a major concern because even small cuts or blisters can become serious, if not treated promptly. The weakened immune response associated with diabetes can make it harder to fight infections, increasing the chance of complications like ulcers or more severe tissue damage.

Preventive care is essential for managing diabetic foot and reducing the risk of complications. Regular foot inspections, proper hygiene, and wearing well-fitted shoes can help protect the feet. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Cracked heels develop when dry, thick skin surrounding the heel loses flexibility and splits under pressure. The cracks can look like thin lines, but deeper openings can cause pain, bleeding, or tenderness while walking. Standing for long periods can place added stress on the heel. Shoes that fit poorly and open-back sandals can also let the heel spread outward. Age can raise the risk because skin becomes less flexible and produces less oil. Health problems like diabetes, psoriasis, and athlete’s foot can also contribute to cracked heels.

A podiatrist can examine the heels to determine how deep the cracks are and whether infection is present. The examination also looks for thick calluses, redness, and drainage. A podiatrist can check circulation and sensation in the feet, especially when a patient has diabetes or another condition that affects healing. Treatment includes the careful removal of hard, thickened skin with sterile instruments. This process reduces pressure near the cracks and helps the heel regain a smoother surface. The podiatrist can also apply protective dressings or recommend heel cups that support the heel’s padding. Deep cracks and termed fissures can require specialized wound care.

A podiatrist also addresses the forces that caused the skin to split. They can assess a patient’s gait, foot shape, and shoe fit. Custom orthotics can improve weight distribution when poor foot alignment places extra pressure on the heels. Advice about properly fitted, supportive shoes can help protect the skin and limit outward spreading of the heel. Regular podiatric evaluations are important for patients with poor circulation, reduced feeling, or a history of slow-healing wounds. Cracked heels should not be ignored when they bleed, become increasingly painful, or show redness and warmth. Early professional care can keep small splits from becoming deeper wounds and can lower the risk of infection. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Cuboid syndrome can cause pain along the outside of the foot, near the little toe. The cuboid is a small bone in the middle of the foot that helps support movement and stability. Cuboid syndrome develops when this bone shifts partly out of its normal position. Pain can begin after a sudden injury or repeated stress on the foot. Symptoms include aching or sharp pain, difficulty walking, and swelling. Some patients also have reduced foot or ankle movement. Pain can become stronger when putting weight on the foot or pushing off the toes.

Overuse and ankle sprains are leading causes of cuboid syndrome. Running and other intense activities can place repeated stress on the joints of the foot. An inward-twisting ankle sprain can also disturb the position of the cuboid. People whose feet turn inward while walking can face a higher risk. Tight calf muscles can add stress to the cuboid area. Other risk factors include high-impact sports, uneven training surfaces, and wearing shoes that lack proper support. Because cuboid syndrome can resemble a stress fracture or other foot problem, an accurate evaluation is important.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, review how the pain started, and assess foot movement. The evaluation can also identify an ankle injury or abnormal foot mechanics that could be contributing to symptoms. Treatment can include manipulation to restore the cuboid's position, supportive taping, or padding to stabilize the middle of the foot. Orthotics can provide added support and improve foot alignment. A podiatrist can also recommend changes to activities and shoes to reduce repeated strain. Recovery depends on the severity and cause of the problem. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 ABC Podiatry. 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 office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.