Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of a nerve that runs along the inside of the ankle, leading to discomfort in the foot. Common causes include flat feet or fallen arches, swelling from an ankle sprain, and conditions like arthritis or diabetes that increase pressure in the area. Symptoms include tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain that can worsen with activity. Risk factors include poor foot structure, inflammation, and repetitive stress. Wearing compression socks may help reduce swelling and provide support, which can ease symptoms for some individuals. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend treatments, and address underlying causes. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore 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 contact our office located in Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken foot occurs when one or more of the bones in the foot develop a crack or complete fracture. This can happen from trauma, overuse, or sudden twisting injuries. A broken foot bone can cause sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty placing weight on the affected foot. The injured area may appear swollen or discolored, and some patients notice tenderness that worsens with walking or standing. In more severe fractures, the shape of the foot may look uneven or unstable. Broken foot injuries can result from falls, sports accidents, dropping heavy objects on the foot, or repetitive stress that weakens the bone. A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate movement and stability, and use X-rays to determine the location and severity of the fracture. Treatment may include immobilization with a boot or cast, wearing protective footwear, or surgery, if the bones are displaced. If you think you may have broken your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows or presses into the surrounding skin instead of resting above it, creating irritation, and, in some cases, a break in the skin. Mild cases may cause redness, tenderness, and slight swelling. As the condition worsens, moderate ingrown toenails can lead to increased pain, drainage, and discomfort in wearing closed-toe shoes. Severe or infected cases may include pus, warmth, and overgrown tissue along the nail border. Some people develop chronic ingrown toenails due to nail shape, repeated pressure, or injury. Treatment depends on severity. Early care includes warm soaks, keeping the area clean, and reducing pressure with proper footwear. A podiatrist may trim or lift the nail or place a small support. For persistent or severe cases, a simple in-office procedure can remove part of the nail and prevent regrowth. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Buying shoes online sounds easy, but getting the right fit can be surprisingly difficult. Each brand uses different sizing standards, and, even within the same brand, styles can vary based on design and materials. A stiff leather shoe may feel tighter than a flexible mesh one, even if they are labeled the same size. Without trying them on, it is hard to know how they will truly fit your foot shape. Many people also do not realize their feet change over time, making old size assumptions unreliable. Proper measurement of length, width, and arch type is key to finding comfortable footwear. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, identify problem areas, and recommend shoe types that match your needs. This guidance can prevent pain, blisters, and long-term issues. If you struggle with shoe fit, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.