Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, located on the inside of the ankle. This compression can lead to various symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and sharp pain in the foot and ankle area. These symptoms often worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or activity. The causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include trauma, repetitive stress, or conditions like diabetes that lead to nerve damage. Other contributing factors include swelling, cysts, or flat feet, which can narrow the tunnel and put pressure on the nerve. To diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome, podiatrists rely on a thorough physical examination and may use imaging tests like MRI scans or ultrasounds to assess the area. Nerve conduction studies may also be performed to measure the electrical activity of the nerves and confirm the diagnosis. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by long-term strain on the foot’s ligaments and muscles. This condition usually develops as a result of repetitive stress, such as excessive walking or running, which can lead to inflammation and the formation of calcium deposits. The primary symptom of a heel spur is sharp pain, especially when standing or walking after long periods of rest. The pain may decrease as the foot warms up, but it can return with prolonged activity. Risk factors for developing a heel spur include having flat feet, being overweight, wearing poorly fitting shoes, or engaging in activities that put excessive pressure on the feet, like running on hard surfaces. Additionally, people with conditions like arthritis or diabetes may also be at a higher risk. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Chronic ankle instability occurs when the ankle repeatedly gives out, often due to weakened ligaments from prior injuries like sprains. Over time, the ligaments fail to provide sufficient support, leading to instability and persistent pain. This condition is common in athletes and individuals who engage in activities involving quick turns or uneven surfaces. The pain typically feels like a dull ache or sharp twinge on the outer side of the ankle, often worsening with activity. Swelling, tenderness, and a sense of wobbliness may accompany the discomfort. Repeated instability can cause further injuries, cartilage damage, or arthritis. If you have chronic ankle stability, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can recommend treatments such as targeted exercises to strengthen the ankle, bracing for support, or, in severe cases, surgery.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, leading to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. This condition is often triggered by a high intake of purine-rich foods, alcohol consumption, dehydration, or certain medications. Gout most commonly affects the feet, particularly the big toe, causing sudden and intense pain, redness, and swelling. The affected joint may become hot to the touch, and movement may be severely limited. The pain from gout attacks can be debilitating, often occurring at night and lasting for several days. While the big toe is most commonly affected, other joints such as the ankles and knees can also be involved. Managing gout typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as lifestyle changes like diet modifications and staying hydrated to prevent future flare-ups. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment tips.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Running can be an excellent way to stay active, but it places repetitive stress on the feet, ankles, and toes, often leading to injuries. Common foot-related injuries in runners include plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and ankle sprains. Plantar fasciitis involves irritation of the broad ligament on the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain, especially during morning steps. Stress fractures, hairline cracks in bones like those in the foot or heel, can develop from overuse and require proper care to prevent worsening. Ankle sprains, caused by overstretching ligaments, result in swelling, pain, and reduced mobility. Ingrown toenails are also prevalent among runners, often from wearing improperly fitted footwear, causing discomfort and possible infection if untreated. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis of your foot condition and recommend tailored treatment, based on the type and severity of the injury. Early intervention helps prevent minor injuries from progressing to chronic issues. If you have sustained a foot injury related to running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite 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 Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.