Tarsal tunnel syndrome, often likened to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, is a condition that affects the feet and ankles. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the inner side of the ankle, encased by bone and tissue, through which nerves and blood vessels pass. When this tunnel becomes compressed or squeezed, it can lead to tarsal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms can include a burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the inner ankle, heel, or sole of the foot. If left untreated, the condition can worsen, leading to weakness and muscle deterioration in the affected area. Several factors can contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome, including injury, inflammation, or structural abnormalities in the foot. Diagnosing the condition involves a thorough examination by a podiatrist, often including imaging tests to rule out other potential causes. If you have pain as described above, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. 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 Port Jefferson Station, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Experiencing heel pain can significantly impact your daily life, making even simple tasks like walking or standing uncomfortable. Podiatrists, medical professionals specializing in foot and ankle health, can diagnose and treat heel pain. These types of doctors understand the complex structure of the foot and can identify the underlying causes of heel pain. Included are overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, or Achilles tendonitis. Targeting the underlying cause of heel pain is important for appropriate care. It is especially important to seek the advice of a podiatrist if you have persistent pain, and if the pain comes suddenly or after an injury. A podiatrist can offer a personalized treatment plan that may include specialized exercises, custom orthotics, medication, or advanced therapies designed to alleviate pain and promote healing. Podiatrists can also provide valuable guidance on footwear choices and lifestyle modifications to prevent future pain. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested you seek the help of a podiatrist for diagnosis and care. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Flat feet, or fallen arches, pose several risks to foot health and overall well-being. This condition occurs when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. Flat feet can lead to a variety of issues, including foot pain, swelling, and fatigue, particularly after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Individuals with flat feet are more susceptible to overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and shin splints due to the altered biomechanics of the feet. Additionally, flat feet can contribute to misalignment of the ankles, knees, and hips, leading to discomfort and increasing the risk of developing osteoarthritis in these joints over time. Without proper support and management, flat feet can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer custom orthotics or other relief methods that are right for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. 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 Port Jefferson Station, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle injuries in basketball often occur due to the dynamic movements and high-impact nature of the sport. One common injury is the ankle sprain, which happens when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, usually as a result of sudden twists, turns, or awkward landings. These sprains can range from mild to severe, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Another significant concern is ankle fractures, which occur when one or more of the bones surrounding the ankle joint break, often due to forceful impacts or collisions. Both sprains and fractures require timely attention to prevent further damage and promote proper healing. Proper warm-up routines, wearing supportive footwear, and practicing correct landing techniques can help reduce the risk of ankle injuries in basketball players. Additionally, implementing strength and balance exercises to improve ankle stability and flexibility can aid in injury prevention. If you have sustained an ankle injury from playing basketball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as RA, is a prevalent inflammatory condition, affecting up to one percent of the global population. It can develop at any age but is most common in individuals that are between 30 and 50 years old, with significant disability implications. Genetic factors play a substantial role, with approximately half the risk attributable to genetic predisposition, including specific human leukocyte antigen associations. Smoking is a major environmental trigger. RA primarily affects joints, leading to synovial inflammation, cartilage damage, and bone erosion. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often affecting the toes of the feet. Morning stiffness lasting over an hour is a hallmark sign. If you have discomfort in your feet from RA, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist, as prompt diagnosis is essential for early intervention and management to mitigate joint damage and preserve joint function.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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