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The tibial nerve is located behind the bump on the inside of the ankle. The tarsal tunnel consists of a thick band of tissue, which houses the tibial nerve, arteries, and veins. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur when inflammation happens gradually, or from a sudden injury. Common symptoms can include a dull pain on the bottom of the foot, or a burning or tingling sensation. Some patients find mild relief when the affected foot is gently massaged. Additionally, performing specific stretches that can help to improve flexibility may be beneficial by allowing the tibial nerve to move within the tarsal tunnel. If you are afflicted with tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition. 

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. 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 one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people who enjoy ballroom dancing realize the importance of wearing shoes that fit correctly. It is beneficial to have dance shoes fit snugly, and it is suggested to try on shoes that are a half size smaller than your street shoes. Specific foot action is required in many dance steps, and dance shoes are constructed differently than ordinary shoes. Dancers understand that wearing shoes which have a tighter fit may be able to provide more control, and they can feel like they are part of the feet. A perfect fit consists of the toes reaching the top of the shoe with little or no wiggle room. This may help in providing the ability to correctly perform dance steps in which the feet are pointed. If  you would like additional information about how to purchase dance shoes that are good for your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When you shop for new shoes, it can be difficult to find the right size. Manufacturers often don’t follow a standard sizing system for their shoes, so your shoe size might differ between brands or even between different styles of shoes within the same brand! To find the right shoe, use the size as a guideline rather than a strict rule. What you might really want to pay attention to are the width of the shoe, the materials that the shoes are made of, how you are planning to use the shoes, and any foot health issues that you may have. Shopping for shoes in person may be more effective than shopping online, as a salesperson will be able to assist you when you are in the store. For more information about how to find the right shoes for you, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

The condition that is known as athlete’s foot can cause mild to severe irritation on the bottom of the feet or between the toes. It is caused by a fungus and is considered to be contagious. The type of fungi that can lead to athlete’s foot lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, such as public swimming pools. Additionally, the fungus may be found on shower room floors, in locker rooms, and in surrounding areas. An effective prevention technique can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in these types of areas, and it can help to avoid sharing towels, socks, and shoes. Some of the symptoms that are associated with athlete’s foot include itchiness on various parts of the foot, and the skin may become dry and flaky. In severe cases, blisters may develop, and the foot may emit an odor. Athlete's foot is best treated by a podiatrist.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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