Tuesday, 18 February 2025 00:00

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a nerve on the inside of the ankle gets squeezed, causing pain and other symptoms. This nerve runs through a small space near the ankle bone, called the tarsal tunnel, which is covered by a thick band of tissue. When something takes up extra space in this area, like swelling from an ankle injury, a cyst, or a bone bump, it can put pressure on the nerve. Flat feet can also contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome by tilting the heel outward, adding strain to the nerve. People with this condition may feel tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain that starts near the ankle and spreads to the foot or toes. Symptoms often get worse with walking, standing for long periods, or exercising. It is important to get checked early to avoid long-term nerve damage. A podiatrist can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment, which may include special shoe inserts, braces, or, if necessary, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve. If you have pain on the inner side of the ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kristopher Jerry, DPM  from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor 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 tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • 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 offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Various Causes of Ankle Pain
Tuesday, 11 February 2025 00:00

For diabetics, proper foot care is essential to prevent complications such as infections, poor circulation, and nerve damage. One of the most important steps is wearing well-fitting shoes, as ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, sores, and ulcers that can lead to serious infections if not promptly treated. It is also beneficial to select shoes with good support and cushioning. Regularly elevating the feet helps improve circulation, which is vital for diabetic patients, as poor circulation can lead to slower healing. Wiggling the toes and stretching the feet can encourage blood flow and prevent stiffness. Regular exercise, such as walking or foot-specific stretches, can also promote circulation and strengthen the muscles in the feet. Checking the feet daily for cuts, blisters, or any signs of irritation is vital. 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 Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor 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 offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Tuesday, 04 February 2025 00:00

Shoe chafing and pain can ruin your day, but a few simple tricks can help. Start by keeping your feet dry as moisture increases friction. Use liner socks or cushioned heel socks for extra protection. Insoles can be a game-changer by adjusting heel height and improving fit. Care for your shoes by ensuring they are clean and well-maintained. Worn-out shoes often cause discomfort, and proper lacing is key to securing your feet without excessive tightness. To reduce pressure, gently soften tough areas in your shoes with tools like a shoe stretcher or a bit of heat. If you notice redness, irritation, or pain, stop wearing the offending shoes immediately to prevent foot wounds. Persistent issues could lead to blisters or infections. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort from shoe chafing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess your feet, and offer effective relief solutions.

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 Kristopher Jerry, DPM from Podiatry Health Services . Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Wound Care
Wednesday, 29 January 2025 00:00

Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.

Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.