Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when the tibial nerve becomes compressed near the inside of the ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel before continuing into the foot. Pressure in this area can cause pain, burning, or tingling along the sole of the foot. Some patients also experience numbness. Symptoms can become more noticeable with standing or activity. An ankle injury, a cyst, or changes in foot structure can increase pressure around the nerve. Identifying where symptoms occur can help determine whether nerve compression is involved.

A podiatrist can evaluate tarsal tunnel syndrome by examining the foot and ankle and asking about the pattern of symptoms. One examination method involves gently tapping over the tibial nerve near the inner ankle. Tingling or an electric sensation that travels into the foot can suggest irritation of the nerve. The podiatrist can assess ankle movement, foot structure, and the way a patient walks. This evaluation is important because other problems can also cause pain or numbness in the foot. Understanding the source of the symptoms helps guide an appropriate treatment plan.

Podiatric care can focus on mechanical factors that place added stress around the ankle and foot. A podiatrist can address restricted joint movement and evaluate how the lower leg affects foot mechanics. Treatment can include gentle joint mobilization, guided stretching, and strengthening exercises based on examination findings. A podiatrist can also assess movement patterns that could increase pressure around the tarsal tunnel. Persistent numbness or worsening weakness deserves careful evaluation because ongoing nerve compression can affect foot function. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. 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 Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Healthy blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Poor circulation develops when blood does not move effectively through the blood vessels. One major cause is narrowing of the arteries from fatty deposits called plaques. When arteries in the legs become narrow, less blood reaches the feet. This problem is called peripheral arterial disease, or PAD. Reduced circulation can make the feet more vulnerable to injury, infection, and ulcers. Cuts and other skin injuries can also heal more slowly when the tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients.

Warning signs can appear in the feet and legs. Painful cramps in the calves can develop with activity and improve with rest. Some patients notice numbness, weakness, or swelling, especially in the feet. The feet and toes can also feel colder than usual. Changes can affect the skin, hair, and toenails because these tissues depend on a steady blood supply. Poor circulation can contribute to brittle nails and slower healing of cuts. Varicose veins can also appear near the feet and ankles when weakened vein valves allow blood and pressure to build up.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for changes linked to poor circulation and assess how well blood is reaching the lower limbs. This evaluation can include checking skin condition, temperature, and pulses in the feet. A podiatrist can also identify wounds or ulcers that are healing slowly and provide appropriate foot care. Regular podiatry visits can help protect vulnerable feet by detecting changes early and reducing the risk of complications. Patients should report persistent cramping, numbness, or unusual temperature changes in their feet. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment and management solutions.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Brian Doerr, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thickened, and less flexible. As pressure is placed on the heel while standing or walking, the skin may split and form small cracks. These openings are also known as heel fissures. Cracked heels can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the risk. Spending long periods standing, wearing footwear that does not support the heel, and having very dry skin can contribute to the problem. At first, heel cracks may be mainly a cosmetic concern. As they deepen, however, they can become painful and interfere with comfortable walking.

The skin around a cracked heel may appear hard, rough, or thick. Some people develop deeper fissures that cause pain when weight is placed on the foot. More serious cracks may bleed or create an opening where bacteria can enter the skin. This can increase the risk of infection. Certain medical conditions may also make cracked heels more likely or increase the chance of complications. People with diabetes or poor circulation should have foot changes professionally evaluated, because wounds may require specialized attention. Persistent heel pain, bleeding, or signs of infection should be examined to determine the severity of the problem and identify contributing factors.

A podiatrist can evaluate cracked heels and determine why the skin continues to split. During an examination, the podiatrist can assess the damaged skin and check for signs of infection or other foot problems. Professional treatment may include carefully reducing areas of thickened skin and providing care for deeper heel fissures. A podiatrist can also assess foot structure and pressure patterns that may contribute to recurring cracks. Treatment is based on the condition of the skin and the patient’s overall foot health. If painful, deep, or recurring cracked heels are affecting your comfort or ability to walk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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 Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can develop when fungi grow in warm, moist environments, including inside damp shoes and socks. The infection commonly begins between the toes but can spread to other areas of the foot. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another through contact with contaminated surfaces, shoes, and floors. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection. They can include an itchy rash, scaling skin, or blisters. Some people develop dry skin across the soles and sides of the feet. The infection can affect one foot or both feet.

A podiatrist can examine the skin of the feet and determine whether the symptoms are consistent with athlete’s foot. Other skin conditions can cause similar signs, so an accurate diagnosis is important. The location and appearance of the rash can provide useful information during the examination. A podiatrist can also determine whether the infection has caused additional skin problems. In some cases, athlete’s foot can become more painful, swollen, or red. Open sores, blisters, or drainage can also develop when another infection affects the area. Professional evaluation can help identify these changes and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment for athlete’s foot focuses on clearing the fungal infection and preventing it from causing further skin problems. A podiatrist can recommend an appropriate antifungal treatment based on the severity and location of the infection. Prescription medication can be considered when a stronger treatment is appropriate. A podiatrist can also monitor the skin and determine whether the infection is responding to treatment. Prompt evaluation is especially important when symptoms are painful, spreading, or interfering with daily activities. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions,  which may include prescribed medication. 

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 Brian Doerr, DPM from Florida.  Our doctor 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 Fort Meyers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.