What Is Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that involves thickening and irritation of a nerve that runs between the metatarsal bones at the base of the toes. It is commonly caused by compression of the nerve, which disrupts normal sensation between the ends of the metatarsals.  Wearing tight shoes that squeeze the forefoot can increase pressure in this area and worsen symptoms over time. Common signs include pain in the ball of the foot, a burning sensation, tingling, or the feeling of standing on a small pebble. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton's neuroma through a physical examination and imaging, when needed. Treatment may include footwear modifications, orthotics, targeted therapies, and pain relief strategies. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

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How a Podiatrist Tests for Peripheral Artery Disease

Testing for peripheral artery disease focuses on blood flow to the feet, toes, and ankles. Changes in circulation can affect skin temperature, nail health, healing, and walking comfort. During an exam, a podiatrist checks how well blood is reaching the feet and toes, skin color, and temperature to look for reduced flow. In-office tools allow listening to blood movement and comparing pressure between the ankle and toe, which helps identify peripheral artery disease later in the visit. Findings guide decisions about monitoring, further testing, or surgery when circulation is severely limited. Assessment is important for people with slow-healing sores, numbness, or color changes in the feet. A podiatrist explains results, tracks changes over time, and helps lower the risk of wounds, infection, and loss of limb affecting the feet. For help with foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

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Children’s Intoeing Care

Children’s foot deformities are common and often noticed as a child begins to walk or becomes more active. Intoeing is a condition where the feet turn inward while walking, which may come from the hips, legs, or feet. Causes can include developmental changes, muscle imbalance, or inherited foot structure. Symptoms may involve frequent tripping, awkward walking patterns, uneven shoe wear, or leg fatigue during play. While many children outgrow intoeing, some cases may benefit from professional evaluation. A podiatrist can help by assessing gait, foot alignment, and growth patterns to determine the cause and severity. Treatment may include monitoring, stretching exercises, wearing supportive footwear, or custom orthotics to guide proper foot position. If you notice your child walking with their feet turned inward or having difficulty keeping up with activities, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatry consultation to ensure proper foot development and confident movement.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

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Understanding Gout and How a Podiatrist Can Help

Gout is a painful inflammatory condition that often strikes the big toe and can appear suddenly with intense redness, swelling, and warmth that makes even light contact uncomfortable. The attacks may feel like burning pressure or sharp throbbing, and the joint may look shiny or purple as uric acid crystals irritate the tissue. Gout is commonly caused by elevated uric acid levels linked to genetics, diet, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions. A podiatrist can assist from the very beginning by performing a careful examination, ordering appropriate tests, and distinguishing gout from other foot disorders. Early diagnosis allows timely treatments that may include medication to reduce inflammation, guidance on footwear, custom orthotics to ease joint stress, in addition to long-term strategies to prevent future flare ups through lifestyle adjustments. Because prompt care can significantly reduce pain and protect joint health, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition,

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

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Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

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