Tarsal tunnel syndrome is an unusual form of peripheral neuropathy caused by pressure on the tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This compression can lead to numbness, burning, tingling, and pain in the ankle, bottom of the foot, and toes. A podiatrist can perform a detailed examination and order diagnostic tests, which record electrical activity in muscles and nerves, to confirm the condition. Treatment may include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory therapy, or surgical release of the nerve, in severe cases. If you have persistent foot or ankle pain with tingling or numbness, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Texarkana, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot corn is a thickened area of skin that develops as a protective response to pressure or friction, usually on the toes or soles. Corns form when repeated stress causes layers of skin to build up, leading to a dense, often painful core that presses into deeper tissues. They can cause discomfort while walking, tenderness, and visible hardened skin. Causes include wearing poorly fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or prolonged standing. Risk factors involve foot deformities, high activity levels, and certain occupations. A podiatrist can help by safely removing corns, addressing underlying causes with orthotics or footwear changes, and helping to prevent recurrence. Foot corns can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily tasks. If you have developed this uncomfortable condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Freiberg infraction is a condition that affects the long bones in the front of the foot, most often the second metatarsal. It happens when the bone under the toe joint loses its normal blood supply, leading to tiny fractures and collapse of the bone surface. This can cause pain in the ball of the foot, swelling, and stiffness in the toe. Walking or wearing tight shoes may make the discomfort worse, and over time, the joint may become stiff or uneven. The condition is more common in teenagers and young adults, especially those who are active in sports, although adults can develop it, as well. Treatment may involve rest, wearing cushioned shoes, orthotics, or targeted exercises  to relieve pressure and improve movement. Severe cases may require surgery. If you have persistent pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Philip Hahn, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Taking a few minutes each day to stretch your feet can improve flexibility, ease discomfort, and support overall mobility. One simple stretch is the toe pull, where you sit comfortably and gently pull your toes back toward your shin to release tension in the arch. Another helpful exercise is the towel stretch. This is done by placing a towel under the ball of your foot and slowly pulling it toward you while keeping your knee straight. A third option is the calf stretch, which involves leaning forward against a wall with one leg behind you, keeping your heel on the ground to lengthen the muscles that connect to the heel and foot. Regular stretching may reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and help prevent injury. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for professional care and guidance.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Philip Hahn, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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