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What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This nerve entrapment can result from injury, swelling, flat feet, or medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Symptoms include tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain in the ankle, heel, or sole of the foot. Risk factors include repetitive motion, improper footwear, and structural foot problems. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through physical examination and testing, then recommend treatments, such as orthotics or anti-inflammatory care. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert evaluation and a plan to restore foot comfort and function.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon of Advanced 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 one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Prevention and Podiatric Care for Runner’s Toenail

Runner's toenail, also known as black toenail, is  caused by repeated trauma to the toes during running. This often leads to discoloration, pain, or even loss of a toenail. It typically results from the nail repeatedly hitting the inside of the shoe during activity. To prevent it, keep toenails trimmed, tie shoes securely, wear cushioned socks, and increase mileage gradually. Properly fitting shoes are essential to avoid pressure on the toes. A podiatrist can help by evaluating your gait, recommending footwear, and treating damaged nails to prevent infection. If you notice pain or discoloration in your toenails after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert care and personalized prevention strategies.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

  • Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
  • Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
  • “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
  • Cross-Training is Crucial
  • Wear Proper Running Shoes
  • Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Preventing Running Injuries

Foot Complications From Diabetes

Diabetic foot ulcers and neuropathy are serious complications of diabetes that can lead to infection, hospitalization, or even loss of limbs if left untreated. Neuropathy, or nerve damage, reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel pain, heat, or injuries. This numbness increases the risk of unnoticed wounds, which can develop into open sores called ulcers that are slow to heal. These ulcers often occur on pressure points like the ball of the foot or heel. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, drainage, and, in severe cases, a foul odor. Some people may not feel any pain due to the loss of sensation, which can delay treatment. A podiatrist will examine your feet, assess circulation, and possibly use diagnostic tools like X-rays or vascular studies. Treatment may involve wound care, custom footwear, antibiotics, and offloading pressure from the affected area. 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 Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Conditions

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Common Causes of Arch Pain

Foot arch pain can stem from several medical conditions that affect the muscles, ligaments, bones, and tendons in the foot. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most frequent causes, involving inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction may also lead to arch pain due to gradual weakening of the tendon that supports the arch. The posterior tibial tendon runs along the inside of the ankle and attaches to bones in the arch, helping to maintain foot stability. Stress fractures in the long bones of the foot can develop from repetitive impact and are common among people who participate in high-impact activities. Other possible causes of arch pain include ligament sprains and structural abnormalities, such as high arches, which can place uneven pressure on the feet. Severe or prolonged arch pain may require medical imaging to confirm the diagnosis. A podiatrist can recommend effective treatment, including orthotics, medication, immobilization devices, or surgery, depending on the condition. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

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