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Tarsal tunnel release surgery is a procedure that can help relieve pain and numbness from a condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. The tarsal tunnel is located between the bump on the inner ankle and the ligaments that stretch across the foot. This surgery is done to take off pressure on a nerve in this area. This type of surgery can be done endoscopically or open – the former requires fewer and smaller incisions than the latter. One is given anesthesia to either numb the surgery area or induce sleep prior to the surgery being performed so as not to feel pain. The ligament in the ankle will be cut to relieve the pressure on the tibial nerve and any spurs or cysts contributing to discomfort will be removed. Since weight cannot be put on the ankle right after the surgery but movement is necessary to prevent blood clots, exercises will be suggested. If you have pain in this part of your foot, see a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and evaluate whether you are a candidate for tarsal tunnel release surgery.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing the right shoes can make a world of difference while running. There are various styles of running shoes that can confuse even the most seasoned athlete, and it is crucial to know which pair is correct for you. Running shoes are divided into several categories, and the pair that provides the most support are referred to as motion control shoes. This type of shoe has maximum arch support in addition to a high heel drop, which may help overpronation. Another type of shoe is called a stability shoe, and these may be appropriate for runners who have less overpronation. Runners who have no overpronation may feel more comfortable while wearing neutral shoes. These are considered to be lighter in weight, and the majority of the cushioning is found in the heel. People who enjoy running barefoot may choose to wear minimalist shoes, and these provide little or no support. Additionally, road running shoes are designed for those people who like to run on hard surfaces, while running on different types of terrain may call for trail running shoes. If you would like more information about what type of running shoes should be purchased, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you in the right direction.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Anyone who suffers from arthritis likely knows that their condition can significantly affect their feet in many different ways. If you are living with arthritis, it might be helpful to be aware of how this condition can impact your toes. For example, arthritis may affect the joints of the toes, particularly the big toe. Also, swelling around the toe joints can occur. Restricted motion of the big toe may also be a symptom of your arthritis. Perhaps the big toe is stuck in a position and moving it can be difficult. It is also important to note that many different kinds of arthritis can affect the toes. Notably, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, and other kinds of arthritis can impact the toes. If you suffer from arthritis, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today for guidance.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The majority of people often notice immediately if they have broken their ankle. There are many moving parts each ankle has, ranging from ligaments and tissues that are connected to the bones. The ankle is key to moving the foot forward, and extreme pain and discomfort may occur if it is broken. Most patients experience symptoms that include swelling, bruising, and redness, and it is often impossible to walk. A protruding bone may happen with a severely broken ankle, and it can look displaced. If this happens, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone back to its natural position. A broken ankle is typically diagnosed by having an X-ray taken. This is a successful method for determining the extent of the fracture. At this point, treatment often begins with placing the foot in a protective boot or cast, which can provide adequate stability as the healing process occurs. A broken ankle can be treated by a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition, and it is strongly suggested that you contact this type of doctor for an appointment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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