If you experience a burning sensation or sharp pain on the bottom of the foot, just under the toes, you may have developed a Morton’s neuroma. This condition, which many believe is caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, is the result of an inflamed nerve. Morton’s neuroma is usually located between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones at the ball of the foot and has been described as having a stone or pebble in your shoe. Pain caused by compression of the nerves can get worse when you walk or if your toes are squeezed too tightly within the shoe. An MRI or ultrasound can be used to diagnose the condition. Several ways to ease the pain of Morton’s neuroma include resting the foot, wearing better fitting shoes with a wider toe box and lower heel, taking anti-inflammatory medicine, and icing the foot. If pain is persistent, despite these measures, you may wish to consult a podiatrist for a full examination and diagnosis. In more severe cases a podiatrist may recommend cortisone injections, and in even worse cases surgery to remove damaged nerve tissue may be an option.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
There are many diabetic patients who understand that keeping their glucose levels in a normal range is essential in preventing painful foot conditions. The inability to feel sensations in the feet is referred to as neuropathy, and it is important to check for cuts, bruises and scrapes every day. This can be done by using a mirror, or by having a family member inspect the feet. Additionally, the feet will feel better when they are kept clean and dry, and it may help to use talcum powder between the toes. The painful condition that is known as cracked heels may be avoided when a good moisturizer is used. Many diabetic patients see a podiatrist to have their nails trimmed correctly, and this may help to prevent ingrown toenails. It is advised against walking barefoot, and wearing shoes that fit properly will make the feet and overall body feel more comfortable. If you are diabetic, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with managing your diabetic foot care..
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 our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 our office located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
Many people begin to develop balance problems as they age, putting them at a higher risk of falling. A few simple exercises can be done at home to improve health and mobility. (If you haven’t done any exercise in a while, it is always a good idea to check in with a health professional before embarking on any new program.) Just to be safe during these simple exercises, be sure to stand near a wall or chair, or keep a walking aid nearby before starting. It’s a good idea to start cautiously, building up the number of repetitions gradually to avoid injury. Heel-to-toe walk: Place the heel of your right foot directly in front of your left, looking straight ahead, and step down. Repeat 5 times. You may need to lightly touch the wall for stability. One-leg stand: Stand facing the wall, arms straight out in front, and lightly touch the wall in front of you. Lift one foot off the floor and hold for 5 -10 seconds. Repeat with the other foot. Do this 3 times. Sideways walking: Stand up straight with both feet together. Step out to the side with one foot, transfer your weight, and bring the other foot next to it. Repeat 10 steps. Then reverse direction. If you continue to experience balance problems, it may be a good idea to check in with a podiatrist for a complete biomechanical evaluation.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The group of bones that are under the bottom of the big toe include the sesamoid bones. They protect specific tendons in the foot, and absorb most of the weight on the inside of the foot. The condition that is known as sesamoiditis occurs when the sesamoid bones become inflamed. They can become injured as a result of enduring a stress fracture, or from an injury that comes from repetitive motion consisting of dancing. Many patients need to have a proper diagnosis performed, which includes having an X-ray taken that can rule out a fracture. Correct treatment techniques can possibly reduce painful symptoms, in addition to protecting the foot from further injury. These can consist of wearing orthotic insoles, taking anti-inflammatory medication, or possible surgery. If you feel you have injured your sesamoid bones, it is strongly urged that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, in addition to offering you correct treatment solutions.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact our podiatrists of Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
Sudden increase in activity
Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Long Beach, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
