Some afflictions of the foot occur when a local nerve is damaged or strained, which can result in complications in the feet. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is one such foot affliction. This condition occurs in an individual when the tissue surrounding the tarsal tunnel aggravates the posterior tibial nerve. This nerve is located in the lower calf and runs to the heel of the foot. When this nerve aggravation occurs, the patient can feel pain when walking. By working with a podiatrist, a patient can receive a diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome. There are different ways in which a podiatrist might go about making a diagnosis. In some cases, a podiatrist might conduct a simple examination of the affected foot. In other cases, the podiatrist might use nerve conduction studies. These studies essentially use electrical currents to measure the speed with which a nerve can produce impulses. If the posterior tibial nerve being studied produces impulses at a very slow rate, this can indicate the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Regardless of how a diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome is performed, it can be very helpful to reach out to a podiatrist who will be able to best help you identify and treat this condition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact our podiatrists of CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. 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 office located in East Syracuse, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people do not realize that dancers are athletes, too. Their feet, which are involved in nearly every movement, take a great deal of pounding from jumps, leaps, and running – sometimes while wearing toe shoes. In addition, because of the nature of dancing, the ankles as well as the feet and toes are always at risk of injury. One of the common injuries is known as a dancer’s fracture, which affects the 5th metatarsal, and is caused by landing on the side of the foot or twisting an ankle. Landing awkwardly from a jump or leap also can cause a sprained ankle. Bunions and other toe deformities are common to dancers, exacerbated by wearing shoes that can be up to two sizes smaller than their feet. Wearing toe shoes also may aggravate the big toe joint and aid in bunion formation. Stress fractures of the feet are often the result of repetitive movements that can cause the bones to weaken. Anyone who spends a lot of time dancing may wish to have an ongoing relationship with a podiatrist who can examine, diagnose, and treat injuries related to their activity.   

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

Blisters are fluid-filled sacs usually caused by friction or heat. They are a common complaint of walkers and runners alike and can develop due to poorly fitting shoes, a change in footwear, or an increase in the duration of a workout. Blisters most often occur on the toes, heels, balls of the feet, or soles. Eliminating the source that originally caused the blister may aid in their prevention. The feet should be kept cool and dry, as well as thoroughly examined for spots that rub against socks or shoes. Shoes that are too loose or too tight can pinch and irritate the skin of the feet. It is important to give yourself time to break in a new pair of shoes before wearing them for long periods of time. Wear synthetic socks to prevent moisture build-up and watch for seams in socks that can rub against shoes. If a blister does develop do not pop it and cover it with a bandage. If a blister does not drain on its own or becomes infected, contact a podiatrist for treatment and additional ways to prevent them from recurring.

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 our podiatrists of CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. 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 office located in East Syracuse, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common and contagious fungal infection of the skin. Common symptoms are dry, red, and cracked skin that generally develops on the bottom of the foot and in between the toes. It can spread to the toes and other areas of the foot if it is not promptly treated. This fungus can be uncomfortable and cause irritability and embarrassment. There are effective methods that can help to prevent athlete’s foot. These include wearing appropriate shoes while in public shower rooms or locker rooms and keeping your feet washed and thoroughly dried regularly. Additionally, it is advised to refrain from sharing shoes and socks. It is beneficial to wear shoes that are made of natural materials as this may help the feet to feel more comfortable. There are several treatment methods that respond well to athlete’s foot and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine which treatment options are best for you.

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 our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care.  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 office located in East Syracuse, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Our feet are body parts that are often taken for granted but they are so important to get us through life. Most people have probably suffered from foot and/or ankle discomfort at some point. The majority of ankle and foot problems are chronic and are generally caused by repetitive movement leading to overuse and strain. Overloaded tendons or joints can lead to tendonitis or cartilage breakdown and continual stretching of ligaments can lead to joint instability. Important things to consider in trying to prevent foot problems include force (compression, tension, torsion/twisting) on feet and ankles, foot type, body weight, activity, and frequency of activity. Developing a relationship with a podiatrist early and seeing such a specialist throughout one’s life can help with the prevention of foot and ankle problems and treatment of such problems if they do arise.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Flat feet are also referred to as “fallen arches.” As the name suggests, this condition results from collapsed arches or when the feet lay flat against the floor while walking. Babies and toddlers do not have arches at first, but they develop them as they grow. Flat feet can develop if arches do not mature normally. This may happen because of shoes that do not provide adequate arch support, wearing high heels, or overpronation (rolling inward) of the feet. While flat feet should not interfere with the usability of a person’s feet, the pain might be felt in the feet or calves since the feet must work harder to compensate for the lack of arches. If you suspect you have flat feet it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper evaluation, customized creation of arch supports, and any other treatment that may be required.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

A specific type of growth on the bottom of the foot is known as a plantar wart. It grows inward as a result of the constant pressure the feet endure from walking and standing for the majority of the day. It is known to be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and is contagious. The virus can enter the body through a small break in the skin and can cause an infection. These warts can form in a variety of shapes and sizes and cause severe pain and discomfort. They appear to be thickened portions of skin with small blood vessels in the center, which appear as tiny black dots. If you think you may have plantar warts, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

One of the main targets of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is your feet and ankles. It can cause swelling, inflammation, stiffness, and difficulty walking, as well as other symptoms. It can also result in a condition known as sausage toes (where the entire toe swells up), heel pain due to the Achilles tendon becoming inflamed, flattening of the arch, and painful calluses or sores over the joints. Because these ailments can be very painful, the tendency is for the sufferer to cease activity, which can actually make the condition worse. Fortunately, you can help to manage these symptoms by changing the type of shoes you wear, doing exercises to strengthen and stretch the feet, and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Anyone with psoriatic arthritis that has severely affected their feet, ankles, and/or toes, would be wise to begin regular visits with a podiatrist who can determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in East Syracuse, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A hammertoe is when a toe joint (usually the second or middle toe joint) points up instead of lying flat and causes the toe to look like a hammer. This condition can be painful and can lead to difficulty walking. The affected joint often gets rigid, the joint stiffens, sometimes to non-movement. Sometimes a corn or callus may develop on the joint and can cause pain and swelling on the top of the bent toe. This affliction can be caused by weak foot or leg muscles which lead to the tendon pulling up the toe in an abnormal position. Hammertoes are more apt to happen to those who wear high heels or shoes that do not properly support the feet. However, foot type at birth, those with neuromuscular disease, and trauma may predispose one to develop this joint deformity as well. If you think you have symptoms of a hammertoe, it is recommended that you see a qualified podiatrist as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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