8200 NW 27th St
Suite 108
Doral, FL 33122
If you are experiencing persistent foot pain or discomfort, you may have a condition called Morton's neuroma. Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot and can cause pain, tingling, and numbness. This article explains everything you need to know about Morton’s neuroma. Continue reading to check and confirm if you have Morton’s neuroma, and how to treat it.
The name "Morton neuroma" comes from Thomas Morton, a doctor who wrote about the compression of nerves between the metatarsal heads in 1876. Despite the name, it is not a true neuroma, but rather a condition in which chronic irritation of the interdigital nerve causes neuropathic pain.
Morton’s neuroma occurs when the tissue around a nerve, usually between the third and fourth toes, becomes thicker and presses on the nerve. This pressure irritates the nerve and causes the pain and other symptoms associated with Morton’s neuroma.
Image from National Library Medicine
Morton’s neuroma is most commonly seen in middle-aged women, although it can affect men and people of any age. It is most often caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels, excessive physical activity such as running, and having an abnormal foot structure such as bunions or hammertoes.
If you have Morton’s Neuroma, you may be experiencing some of the following symptoms:
The exact cause of Morton's neuroma is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors. Common causes of Morton's neuroma include:
Morton's neuroma is typically diagnosed based upon the patient's symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. During the physical examination, the doctor may press on the affected area of the foot to determine if pain is present. If pain is present, the doctor may order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI to rule out any other potential causes such as a stress fracture or arthritis.
The doctor may also perform a nerve conduction study to measure how quickly electrical signals travel through the affected nerve. If the nerve conduction study confirms the presence of Morton's neuroma, the doctor may recommend treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or an injection of local anesthetic and corticosteroid. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the neuroma.
There are several ways to ease the pain of Morton's neuroma yourself, and allow the nerve to heal. Here are some steps you can take:
Give your feet a break from activities that put pressure on the affected area. Limit the amount of time you spend on your feet and avoid activities such as running or wearing high heels.
In order to provide relief, it is recommended to use an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables on the affected area for 15 minutes. This will help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
Stretching your feet can be a great way to help reduce the pain. By stretching the muscles and tendons in the feet, tension in the area can be relieved and the discomfort of the condition can be minimized. Regular stretching can help to keep the muscles and tendons in the feet loose and relaxed, helping to reduce the pain.
To help reduce the discomfort, place a cushion or pad in your shoe. Make sure the cushion or pad you use is specifically designed for Morton's Neuroma and fits comfortably in your shoe. This can help to provide the necessary support and alleviate the pain associated with the condition.
Having extra space in the toe area of your shoe allows your toes to move more freely and reduces the amount of pressure put on the affected area. This can help to prevent pain and discomfort that can be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. If you're looking to make sure your feet are comfortable, then investing in shoes with a wide toe box is a great option.
To reduce inflammation and discomfort, one can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available without a prescription. Popular examples of these medications include ibuprofen and naproxen sodium.
If the pain does not improve, it is important to see a heel pain doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
Treatment options for Morton’s neuroma depend on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s needs, and may include:
No matter what treatment option is chosen, it is important to seek medical advice from a qualified heel pain doctor in order to determine the best course of action for your particular situation.
Florida Foot and Ankle Associates have been treating patients for decades, building trust and a reputation for providing the best care for foot and ankle conditions. Our caring and compassionate healthcare professionals will accompany you through every step of the way, and we are using the most modern practices and equipment in podiatry, from regular foot care to more complex treatments.
Some areas in which we specialize include:
We serve in South Florida, including the Greater Miami Area, all surrounding Miami-Dade communities as far north as Broward County and Palm Beach County. Do not hesitate to find the doctor's office closest to you. Find your doctor here!
If you require podiatry services, do not hesitate to contact us today or call 786 662 3893 to book an appointment.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
The foot and ankle are made up of more than 30 joints which enable a wide range of motion and flexibility. It is surrounded by tough bands of ligaments, tendons, and other structures that support mobility and other functions. Unfortunately, the foot and ankle are no exception when it comes to chronic conditions, such as arthritis.
Arthritis is a progressive and degenerative condition that can affect one or more joints in the body, including in the foot and ankle. Arthritis has over a hundred different forms, but the most common ones to cause ankle pain include osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
According to studies, approximately 90% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis experience pain and symptoms in the foot and ankle. Although symptomatic foot and ankle osteoarthritis is not as prevalent, it is still a burden for 15% of patients diagnosed with OA.
Learn everything you need about foot and ankle arthritis below一its types, causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.
Arthritis refers to a medical condition characterized by inflammation or swelling of the joints. It affects the joint itself, surrounding structures, and soft tissues, causing pain and mobility problems. There are several forms of arthritis, but the most prevalent ones affecting the foot and ankle are as follows:
—a type of arthritis that happens due to the natural aging and fraying of the joints. It occurs when the cartilage sustains wear and tear as a result of overuse or repetitive motion.
As the cartilage breaks down with every movement, the two bones that make up the joint begin to rub against each other, causing pain and bone spurs. Most cases of foot and ankle osteoarthritis affect seniors aged 50 and above. Other risk factors include obesity, family history, and underlying joint disorder.
—a type of autoimmune disease wherein the body makes its own antibodies that mistakenly target the joints’ synovium一a tissue that lines the joint and facilitates its smooth motion.
This damages the synovium, ligaments, and other soft tissues surrounding the joints. Over time, this can result in softening or weakening of the bones, thus causing deformity and stress fractures.
—a type of arthritis that occurs due to a prior traumatic injury to the foot and ankle joint. Injuries to the joint (e.g., fracture, dislocation) make it seven times more vulnerable to cartilage fraying, thus resulting in arthritis.
Arthritis in the foot and ankle can affect one or more of its 30 joints, causing pain and swelling. Symptoms may develop gradually and get worse over time without proper interventions. Patients with such a condition can also experience the following symptoms:
Some of the most common foot and ankle joints affected by arthritis include the ankle, big toe, midfoot, and hindfoot.
Your doctor or podiatrist typically diagnose an arthritic foot and ankle joint through the following techniques:
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your podiatrist will create a customized treatment for your specific medical needs.
There are a variety of treatment options for foot and ankle arthritis, depending on its severity. Doctors may either opt for a combination of conservative approaches or perform surgery if they deem fit.
Your podiatrist may go for non-surgical treatment options for mild cases of foot and ankle arthritis. Your treatment plan may include one or more of the following techniques:
Surgical treatment will only become an option for advanced arthritis that significantly affects the patient’s mobility and quality of life. Additionally, your doctor may opt for surgery if non-surgical approaches fail to improve your symptoms. Surgical treatment may include one or more of the following techniques:
Recovery may take at least four to nine months, depending on the severity of the condition. Fortunately, most procedures have a high success rate of eliminating pain, swelling, and other symptoms. You just have to be patient and committed to the whole recovery process to avoid reinjuring yourself further.
Florida Foot and Ankle provides one of the best podiatric care and treatment services to address various foot and ankle conditions. Our board-certified physicians specialize in providing superior care and services, such as the following:
And more.
We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton).
You can find the most convenient location near you by clicking here or contacting us at 786-662-3893 to get in touch with a podiatrist.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Every year, there are millions of people dealing with foot and ankle issues. Foot and ankle injuries are extremely common among athletes and physically active individuals. Injuries can be sudden and acute, or they can be the result of a build up of repetitive forces in the ankle or foot causing microscopic damage to the bones. These tiny cracks in the bone may develop over time which can lead to more chronic conditions.
In the early stage of the injury, there may be no pain and symptoms may not be noticeable. However, the pain may develop over time and symptoms may start to arise such as stiffness, pain, swelling, heel pain or deformities. Failure to recognise and properly address these symptoms may lead to serious injuries or other complications.
Below are some of the most common injuries that occur in the foot and ankle:
Foot and ankle injuries are pretty common and may occur due to different causes. Most ankle sprains happen when the ankle joint is twisted too far out of its normal form. The risk for injury is higher in sports than doing physical activities regularly.
Some of the common causes of foot and ankle injuries may include but not limited to:
If you’ve hurt or sprained your ankle, you can apply first aid using the R.I.C.E method. This is a simple self-care technique to help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and speed up healing.
R.I.C.E stands for:
As soon as you hurt your foot or ankle, stop your activity and rest the injured body part to prevent further damage. Avoid putting weight on the injured area to prevent bruising.
Put ice in the affected area to reduce swelling. The ice provides a numbing sensation that helps reduce the pain. Icing is mostly effective immediately following the injury. When icing, do not put it longer than 15 minutes to prevent frostbite.
Wrap the injured ankle with compression wrap to keep it immobile and supported. Ensure not to wrap your ankle too tightly, just enough to still feel sensations in your feet.
Once wrapped and compressed, elevate the injured body part at heart level or above to reduce the swelling and pain.
The RICE method can help treat minor injuries and get you back in shape as soon as possible but for severe cases that may require foot and ankle surgery, look for a foot and ankle specialist who can examine you, assess your condition, and discuss treatment options available based on your condition.
Remember that RICE is for first aid only. For ongoing treatments for ankle injuries and other conditions like routine foot care, injury & trauma, it is recommended to seek professional advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
It is not always possible to avoid ankle injuries, but there are preventive measures to help reduce the risk of getting an injury, and some of the helpful tips include:
For specialized foot and ankle care or if you are diabetic and you’re looking for diabetic foot ulcer care, you can put your trust in Florida Foot and Ankle to address your medical need and receive the best care.
Florida Foot and Ankle Associates is a leading group of doctors in South Florida providing the highest quality treatments and services for foot and ankle conditions. Some of the practices we specialize in include:
And more!
Call us now at 786-662-3893 to speak with our podiatrist about your condition.
We also have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Doral, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton).
Click here to find the nearest one near you!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Foot bursitis is a condition that makes an area around a joint or bone painful, red, and swollen. It can affect both children and adults. Along with the pain, it can also contribute to mobility issues.
It is caused by inflammation of fluid-filled sacs called bursae. Typically, these sacs are cushions to nearby joints between the bones, tendons, or muscles. There are 33 joints in the foot so bursitis can occur in many different places. Commonly, it affects the ball of the foot, the fifth metatarsal (little toe), and the back of the heel.
Foot bursitis can be caused by direct pressure or repetitive motion. It can be exacerbated if you have an underlying condition such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis. When caused by pressure, it is usually due to wearing tight shoes or high heels.
Foot bursitis can also be caused by repetitive motions such as running, jumping, or improper warm-up before exercise.
Symptoms of foot bursitis can include:
A heel pain doctor will examine the foot to determine if you have foot bursitis. As part of the exam, your doctor will ask questions about the type of exercise you perform, any sports you might participate in, and if your work requires you to stand or walk in a repetitive motion.
The doctor will evaluate signs of swelling, redness, or pain, along with a range of motion testing. Radiographs or X-rays can determine if an underlying foot deformity which may worsen symptoms.
Other tests might include blood work, MRI, ultrasound, or arthrocentesis (where fluid is removed from the bursae). This is often done if an infection or gout is suspected.
Treatment can include stopping activities causing the issue or stretching muscles and joints before workouts or sports.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, icing the foot, and wearing shoe inserts or orthotics can help manage symptoms.
In some cases, steroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and pain. They can be a very effective option but are short-term, so additional injections may be necessary.
If all conservative methods have failed, surgery can be an option to treat foot bursitis.
You can prevent foot bursitis by reducing or eliminating pressure on the feet. Wearing properly fitted shoes and padded socks can be helpful. It is also essential to stretch and complete proper warm-ups before activity, and in some cases, supporting the foot's motion with orthotics can be beneficial.
If you think you have bursitis, our podiatrists at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates can help you!
We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton)
We specialize in a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including:
Do not hesitate to contact us to get back on your feet in no time!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Corn, calluses, and blisters are common conditions that affect the skin. They often occur on the feet, though they may occur on other areas of the body, such as the hands.
This article will address these common conditions and how you can best treat them to heal the skin and get back on your feet!
Blisters occur when the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, is damaged. Fluid flows into the tissue to protect against further damage, causing a fluid sac. Blisters can be clear, bloody, and occasionally can become infected. Usually, blisters heal within three to seven days.
You should allow the skin to heal naturally to avoid any risk of infection. Some people are tempted to burst a blister to let out the serum under the skin, but that can increase the risk of infection. Within a few days, the blister should dry and eventually peel off the skin on its own.
If a blister comes off early, keep it clean by regularly washing it with soap and water. You can apply sterile dressings to the blister in an area where there may be consistent rubbing, such as where skin comes into contact with your shoe.
Corns occur in thickened areas of the body. They often develop as a circle on the bony side of toes and fingers. They can form on both feet and hands, where there is friction with the skin. Corns cause can be quite uncomfortable on the feet, making walking painful.
Corns can develop under dry and damp conditions (such as the space between the toes) and form hard or soft corns. Other foot conditions, such as bunions, can contribute to the development of corns due to increased friction between the toes.
There are three types of corns. Vascular corns are supplied by blood vessels and can bleed if cut. A seed corn develops in little clusters on the skin on the underside of the foot. Fibrous corns develop over time and can be painful to remove.
You can often treat corns with a sterile pad containing salicylic acid. The chemical helps to slowly peel away the layers of dead skin causing the corn.
In some cases, corns need to be removed by a podiatrist. This is especially important in diabetic patients.
Calluses are thick, hard areas of the skin that usually form on the heel or sole of the foot. They can also occur on hands. Commonly they develop as a reaction to ill-fitting footwear over dry skin. Certain deformities of the feet, such crookedness of the toes, can also contribute to the development of calluses. They are more common in younger people.
Calluses can be treated at home using a pumice stone, which uses soft friction to wear down the hardened skin. Oil-based lotion can also help prevent and treat calluses by softening the skin. If home treatments are unsuccessful, calluses can be removed by a heel pain doctor.
Florida Foot and Ankle Associates have been treating patients for decades, building trust and a reputation for providing the best care for foot and ankle conditions. Some areas in which we specialize include:
We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton). Find your doctor here!
If you require podiatry services, do not hesitate to contact us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
An ingrown toenail is a common condition accounting for 20% of all foot problems in primary care. It can develop in any nails but often affects the big toenails. If you have such a condition, then you’re probably experiencing discomfort, especially when you move around.
Fortunately, ingrown toenails can easily be avoided and, if caught early, managed at home to prevent further pain and discomfort. But if it has already become infected, it’s time to seek the help of your trusted podiatrist.
Seeking medical care for a seemingly harmless ingrown toenail may seem excessive. But if left untreated, an infection might develop in the affected nail, which can cause extreme pain and mobility problems. Additionally, an infection can cause serious complications, especially if you have an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or poor blood circulation.
An ingrown toenail is a foot condition that happens when the corner of the nail grows into the skin of the toenail. This condition primarily occurs when you trim your nails improperly (e.g., cutting them too short, cutting in a rounded shape, or ripping the nail).
Improper trimming can cause the nail to be irregularly shaped or have tapered edges, causing it to curve and grow into the skin. Other causes of ingrown in the toenail include the following:
In its early stages, an ingrown toenail can feel tender and slightly sore when touched. You can also observe some swelling around the edges of the nail. As the nail grows and curls down onto the skin, pain and discomfort become more evident, and you may also see some fluid build-up in the toe.
An infection will soon follow and cause more pain, especially when you move. Some symptoms of an infected ingrown include:
It’s important to act quickly and treat an ingrown in its early stages to prevent infection and further discomfort. Here are some safe and effective home care remedies to treat your foot condition:
Do these home remedies for at least a week until the ingrown toenail improves. However, you should be careful not to go beyond these home care procedures to avoid further damaging the injured nail. Here are some answers to questions you might have about your ingrown toenail:
Sometimes, minor ingrown toenails can heal on their own if the affected nail grows above the skin edge.
Podiatrists caution patients not to remove an ingrown toenail themselves as this will only increase their risk of getting infected. If you pull or “dig” out the ingrown nail, there’s a huge chance that you might accidentally nip the skin, creating an opening for bacteria and fungi to enter.
Additionally, your nail grooming tools are not clean and sterile; they may harbor dust, dirt, or microorganisms that can cause infection to your injured toenail.
If you want to avoid a nasty infection, then NO. You should NOT cut an ingrown toenail yourself.
If your ingrown does not respond to home treatments or if it shows signs of infection, you should immediately seek professional help. Your podiatrist will evaluate your condition and decide what kind of surgical treatment to perform.
A partial nail avulsion involves removing only the ingrown part of the toenail一the portion that’s digging into the skin of the nail bed. Your doctor will administer a local anesthetic to the toe and then use a scissor or other surgical instrument to trim the ingrown.
For infected toenails, your podiatrist may need to drain the pus and remove overgrown tissues that have developed. They may also need to cauterize or perform a chemical matrixectomy on the exposed nail base to neutralize the area and destroy the remaining nail-growing cells.
If your ingrown has been a recurrent problem or affects both sides of the nails, then your doctor may recommend a complete nail avulsion. This involves removing the entire toenail to facilitate the normal growth of a new nail for approximately 12 months.
A complete nail avulsion may also be performed with chemical matrixectomy to hinder the growth of a new nail, thus preventing an ingrown toenail forever. This will all depend on what your doctor will recommend based on your condition.
An ingrown toenail may seem like a harmless little problem, but it can actually grow into a complicated medical condition if left untreated. So if you have been suffering from such, then it’s time to call in the cavalry.
Florida Foot and Ankle Associates is a leading medical facility in Miami that provides the highest quality treatments and services for foot and ankle conditions. Some of the practices we specialize in include:
And more!
Call us now at 786-662-3893 to speak with our podiatrist about your condition.
We also have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Doral, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton).
Click here to find the nearest one near you!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Have you experienced significant heel pain in your foot? If so, you may have plantar fasciitis.
The cause of plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the band that runs along the bottom of the foot. Patients often experience a stabbing sensation in the heel, usually in the morning. As you get up and walk around, the pain usually decreases. Sometimes it may also be noticeable when you stand for long periods or move from sitting to standing.
Plantar fasciitis is more common in overweight patients, as well as athletes who participate in activities such as running. It is also seen more frequently in people with flatfoot. However, it can happen to anyone even for no reason.
Tension and stress on the fascia (the band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes) cause small tears, which leads to plantar fasciitis.
Typically, the fascia can support the foot and shock when walking. This is not always the case when you have plantar fasciitis, as the fascia is irritate$d or inflamed.
Other risk factors may trigger plantar fasciitis, including:
If you believe you have plantar fasciitis, it is essential you get the proper diagnosis. Florida Foot & Ankle Associates specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the foot and ankle. We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area. Check out our office locations to find the best foot and ankle doctor near you!
Most often, patients can heal plantar fasciitis by using conservative treatment options. Treatments include icing the areas where the pain is experienced and stretching the fascia tissue.
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or Advil can also be effective in helping with both swelling and pain.
Participation in physical therapy can also be very effective in treating plantar fasciitis. You will learn exercises stretching the fascia and strengthening the muscles supporting the area.
Athletic taping can also be helpful for some athletes. Your physical therapist will teach you how to use athletic taping to protect the fascia adequately so it is effective for you.
Other interventions can be effective if you are still experiencing pain while participating in physical therapy. These include:
Night splints hold the fascia and Achilles tendon in a lengthened positive overnight, stretching the foot while you sleep.
Orthotic foot supports can be beneficial. They are available over the counter but can also be custom-fitted, providing better support and alleviating pressure on the foot.
Before surgery, your foot and ankle doctor may recommend trying steroid injections to help with inflammation and support healing.
Shock Wave Therapy is a non- surgical option available at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. This involves using acoustic shock waves to break up scarring and increase blood supply to the area in an effort to allow the body to heal itself.
Finally, surgery is an option. The surgeon detaches the fascia from the heel bone. It is only considered after conservative options have failed. Your foot and ankle doctor will discuss surgery if appropriate.
Plantar fasciitis can go away on its own by using the conservative treatment options mentioned in this article. You may not experience relief overnight, but with patience, conservative treatments, and following the suggestions of your foot and ankle doctor, you can find relief from your plantar fasciitis.
At Florida Foot and Ankle Associates, we have extensive experience treating plantar fasciitis.
We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton)
At Florida Foot and Ankle Associates we treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including:
If you need a heel pain doctor, then contact us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
An Achilles tendon injury is a rupture that occurs on the back of your lower leg. It is most common in athletes, but others may also be susceptible to the injury.
What is an Achilles tendon? The achilles tendon connects the muscles of the back of your calf to the heel bone. A rupture can occur if the tendon is overstretched. Both partial and complete tears can happen when there is an injury.
If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury, it is essential to see a doctor. At Florida Foot & Ankle, we have several locations for your convenience.
This article will explain what is important for you to know about Achilles Tendon injuries, including some common questions regarding the injury.
There are two types of Achilles tendonitis; non insertional Achilles tendinitis and insertional Achilles tendonitis.
Noninsertional Achilles tendinitis occurs when the fibers in the middle of the tendon start to break down, swell and thicken, causing pain. It is common in younger and active patients in sports or recreational activities.
Source: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/achilles-tendinitis/
Insertional Achilles tendinitis affects the lower part of the heel. This is where the tendon connects to the heel bone.
This injury is seen in patients who are both active and non-active but is more common in those who may place consistent stress on the tendon, such as runners.
When you have Achilles Tendonitis, you commonly experience pain, sometimes severe, that may feel as though you have been kicked in the calf.
The pain is usually accompanied by swelling near the heel. You may also hear a “popping sound” if the tendon tears.
You may also notice leg weakness or discomfort when performing daily activities. You might have difficulty bending the foot downward or pushing off the affected leg when walking.
If you suspect you have torn or injured your Achilles tendon, Florida Foot & Ankle Associates are here to diagnose and evaluate your injury at one of our nearby locations in Florida.
In many cases, you can treat a sore Achilles tendon non-surgically. Non-surgical treatment options include:
A walking boot may be recommended to keep the foot flexed down properly. It may need to be worn for a few weeks.
Though it may take longer to heal, non-surgical methods usually result in a full recovery so long as directions from your doctor are followed.
In some cases, surgery is a recommended treatment option to repair the torn tendon. The surgeon makes an incision in the back of the lower leg and stitches the torn tendon together to repair the injury.
Surgery comes with risks, including infection or nerve damage. However, if the procedure is minimally invasive, there are fewer risks and complications.
Whether you have surgery or not, physical therapy is recommended. You will learn exercises to strengthen the lower leg muscles and the Achilles tendon.
It can take up to six months before you can resume normal activities, but symptoms and pain may continue for far longer without proper rehabilitation.
You may be able to walk with a torn Achilles, but it is not recommended.
Your ability to walk often is dependent on the severity of the injury. For minor tears, you may notice aching when walking, but a severe tear will be very painful.
Walking also carries the risk of making the injury worse, so it is important to see a provider if you suspect a torn Achilles.
When it comes to podiatrists in Florida and throughout southern Florida, Florida Foot & Ankle Associates is considered one of the leading providers.
We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton).
Our practice treats a variety of ankle and foot injuries, including:
Schedule an appointment by contacting us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
A hammertoe (also known as a mallet toe) is a toe deformity that occurs when there is an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that usually hold the toe straight. It presents as an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe, nearest to the toenail. It most often occurs in the second, third, or fourth toe.
Many factors can contribute to the condition, including the type of shoe you wear, trauma, and even certain disease processes.
If you believe you have a hammertoe, our doctors can help by correctly diagnosing and treating the condition. We have locations throughout Southern Florida, including serving the greater Miami area. Find the office closest to you!
Doctors recommend roomier, comfortable footwear if the toe is still flexible. It may also help to wear shoe inserts or orthotic pads—these help by repositioning the toe to relieve pressure and pain.
Some simple exercises such as picking up small objects with your toes or crumpling a towel with your toes can help stretch and strengthen the muscles.
If you have tried conservative treatment without success, surgery is an option. A foot and ankle surgeon may release the tendon and possibly remove a piece of bone to help straighten the toe.
Hammertoes should be treated and corrected. At first, you may maintain flexibility in your toe, but eventually, the tendons can tighten, causing the toe to become bent permanently.
Leaving the toe untreated also puts you at risk for painful corns or calluses as shoes rub against the raised portion of the toe.
With conservative treatment options, you may not be able to reverse a hammertoe, but you can take steps to prevent it from getting worse. First, find shoes that fit correctly. Ensure the shoes you wear offer adequate toe room with low heels and are roomy and adjustable.
Aside from proper footwear, physical therapy exercises can be helpful. Exercises to help stretch and strengthen the tendons around the toe can enable hammertoe from progressing further. You can also try splints or taping the affected toe, which may help to prevent further bending.
For severe cases where conservative methods have failed to stretch out the toe, surgery is an option to flatten a hammertoe.
Foot and ankle surgeons can use different techniques depending upon the severity of the hammertoe. Options include fusion of the toe, a tendon transfer, or joint resection.
Your physician will discuss the best foot surgery option for your specific case.
If you suspect you have a hammertoe, then reach out to us at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates.
Our caring and compassionate staff will be there to support you every step of the way. From routine care to more specialized treatment, our foot specialists are trained in new methods and advanced equipment in podiatry.
We have locations throughout South Florida, including the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton)
We specialize in a variety of foot and ankle conditions including:
Do not hesitate! Connect with us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
If you have noticed a change in the joint of your big toe, you may have a bunion. Bunions most often affect the big toe and cause the toe to incline towards the second toe instead of staying straight ahead. Because it pushes the big toe towards the second toe, it causes the joint to push out.
Bunions can be painful and keep you from walking and exercising. The good news is bunions are treatable.
The condition is usually seen in adults. The condition may be due to a problem with the bones of the foot. The type of shoe you wear can increase the risk but not directly cause bunions.
Though usually seen in the big toe, it can also occur in the little toe. This is known as a “tailor’s bunion.”
This article will look at what happens if you leave a bunion untreated, the fastest way to get rid of a bunion and if a bunion can correct itself.
Several issues can occur if you leave a bunion untreated. Some of the complications include:
To prevent these complications, you must see a podiatrist in Florida to treat the bunion before it gets worse. We have several locations to help treat the condition. Find the doctor’s office that is closest to you.
Bunions are usually treated conservatively. The podiatrist will most likely recommend wearing a supportive shoe. The best shoe has a wide and flexible sole with enough room in the part surrounding the front of the foot. Sandals, the right athletic shoe, and shoes made from soft leather are good choices.
A shoe with a hard heel is suggested to keep the heel of the foot in place. Narrow shoes can be reshaped with shoe stretchers making room for the bunion in the front of the shoe.
Podiatrists may recommend semi-soft shoe inserts that can position the foot correctly when striking the ground. Splints are also available to wear at night to hold the toe straight and to help to ease discomfort.
You can protect bunions with moleskin or gel-filled pads. These are available at most drugstores.
If your bunion is painful, short-term treatment options include: warm soaks, ice packs, and over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. If that is not helpful, the podiatrist may consider cortisone injections to help temporarily reduce inflammation and pain. Bear in mind this is usually only a temporary solution.
Bunions are permanent without surgery but can usually be managed using the suggestions listed above. Conservative treatments help to ease the pain and make managing bunions tolerable. These methods can also slow the progression of the bunion.
If your bunion is very painful, then a podiatrist may recommend surgery. It is usually not recommended until conservative treatments have been tried for at least a year.
If the bunion contributes to other foot conditions, then surgery may indeed be recommended. Having a consultation with your podiatrist is the best way to know if you are a surgical candidate.
If you are concerned you have a bunion, Florida Foot and Ankle Associates has several locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton). Find your doctor here!
At Florida Foot and Ankle Associates, YOU matter. Our caring and compassionate staff will be there to support you every step of the way. From routine care to more specialized treatment, our foot specialists are trained in new methods and advanced equipment in podiatry.
We treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including:
And more!
If you have any questions, contact us or call us at 786-662-3893.
Find the doctor’s office closest to you. We look forward to working with you to start to heal and get back on your feet!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
