January 2024

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition affecting the posterior tibial nerve in the ankle, unveils a spectrum of symptoms that can significantly impact one's daily activities. Individuals with this syndrome often experience tingling or burning sensations along the inner ankle and sole of the foot. Numbness may extend to the toes, creating a sense of weakness or instability. Pain, resembling an electric shock or shooting sensation, may radiate from the ankle to the arch of the foot. Swelling in the affected area and a noticeable increase in discomfort during extended periods of standing or walking are common indicators. As the symptoms progress, individuals may find relief through rest but experience a resurgence of discomfort upon resuming activities. Recognizing these various signs is critical for a timely diagnosis and intervention. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. 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 our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sesamoiditis, a condition affecting the tiny sesamoid bones beneath the big toe, can be challenging to identify but understanding its symptoms is essential for timely intervention. One telltale sign is a gradual onset of pain in the ball of the foot, particularly beneath the big toe. This discomfort may intensify with weight-bearing activities, such as walking or running. Swelling and tenderness around the affected area can also accompany the pain. Accurate diagnosis plays a pivotal role, involving a thorough examination by a podiatrist. This foot doctor may utilize imaging studies such as X-rays to study the sesamoid bones and assess any abnormalities. Additionally, the podiatrist may perform physical tests, evaluating range of motion and pinpointing tender areas. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat sesamoiditis.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Our feet, resilient and reliable, are subjected to the rigors of daily life, often bearing the brunt of our activities. Amid this constant support, certain common foot problems can emerge, warranting attention to maintain optimal foot health. Bunions, characterized by a bony bump at the base of the big toe, and plantar fasciitis, involving inflammation of the tissue connecting heel bone to toes, are frequent culprits. Ingrown toenails, a painful condition where the nail grows into the surrounding skin, can disrupt daily comfort. Athlete's foot, a fungal infection causing itching and peeling, is another prevalent woe. Additionally, corns and calluses, thickened skin resulting from friction or pressure, often develop on weight-bearing areas. Recognizing these common foot predicaments is the first step toward proactive foot care. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose the cause and offer appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments are damaged due to a sudden incident, often when the foot rolls or twists beyond its usual range. This can result in the overstretching or tearing of ligaments. An inversion sprain causes strain on the outer ligaments and an eversion sprain affects the inner ligaments. Treatment for the majority of uncomplicated ankle sprains involves rest, avoiding weight on the ankle for the first 48 hours, compression using an elastic bandage, and elevating the foot to reduce swelling. If the ankle swells severely right after the injury and bearing weight is impossible, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist. Other signs for urgent attention include a loud crack or pop during the incident or an ankle deformity unrelated to swelling. Complete rehabilitation of the ankle joint is essential to avoid developing chronic weakness that can lead to further sprains. Among measures that can help are performing a range of motion, balance, and strengthening exercises with guidance from a podiatrist on length of time and intensity. To ensure a tailored treatment plan for a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Plantar warts, small growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus, abbreviated HPV, are not only a common ailment but also a source of discomfort for many people. These warts often appear as rough, grainy lesions with tiny black dots, known as seed warts, indicative of tiny blood vessels within. The pressure exerted on the soles of the feet, particularly during walking or standing, can cause plantar warts to embed themselves deeper into the skin, contributing to the characteristic pain associated with these growths. Causes of plantar warts include direct contact with the HPV virus, which thrives in warm and moist environments such as locker rooms or public showers. Understanding the symptoms, such as tenderness or the presence of small, fleshy lesions on the soles, and the potential causes of plantar warts is essential for timely identification and appropriate treatment. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment methods.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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