Items filtered by date: December 2022

The nerve that is located inside the tarsal tunnel is called the posterior tibial nerve. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway that is found inside the ankle. It is held in place by soft tissue and bone, and this nerve can become compressed and irritated due to consistent pressure. It can also happen from medical conditions such as flat feet, diabetes, or arthritis which may cause this nerve to become irritated and inflamed. This is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome. Patients may experience a numbing or burning sensation and there may be shooting pain on the inside of the ankle. In severe cases, the pain may radiate to the heel, arch, and toes. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is frequently rested and specific stretches are performed. These can include standing on the toes while using a chair for support and lifting the heels off of the floor. This is most effective when several sets are completed with a short rest period in between. If you think you may have tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna of Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna 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 offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Arthritis can affect many parts of the body, including the joints of your feet. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the feet, the most common being osteoarthritis. The joints are covered with articular cartilage, connective tissue that covers the surface of bones in joints. This cartilage reduces friction with joint movement. Arthritis will cause the joints to wear down and lose this cartilage, resulting in the bones rubbing against each other. Soft tissues in joints might also become worn, and this can cause stiff joints that will not function properly. Early signs of foot arthritis include pain, swelling, and stiffness. This ailment can cause acute, or sudden, symptoms or chronic, or long-lasting, symptoms. When osteoarthritis affects the feet, it is usually the joint in the big toe that is first impacted. However, this kind of arthritis can also affect the midfoot. If you have pain in your feet for any reason, or think you might have arthritis, see a podiatrist who can properly evaluate your condition and offer treatment options to provide relief.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna 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 offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

People who have flat feet are often aware of how it can affect their running routine. The absence of an arch often does not absorb the shock of each step, and it may ultimately increase the risk of incurring an injury. One of the hazards of running with flat feet is overpronation, which is defined as the foot and arch rolling inward while landing. Patients who like to run often have their gait, or walking style analyzed, in addition to possibly wearing custom-made orthotics. It helps to know if you have flexible or rigid flat feet, and this can determine how the foot strikes the ground. Choosing stability or motion control running shoes may help to control overpronation by providing adequate support to the middle of the foot. If you have flat feet and enjoy running, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can give you successful tips on how to possibly reduce the risk of injury while running.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

The foot condition known as athlete’s foot was originally named as a result of athletes getting this type of fungal infection. Despite this fact, it is common among the general population and can be quite uncomfortable. The fungus that causes this condition lives in warm environments and enters the body through small cracks in the skin. Public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms are common areas where this fungus is found. The symptoms that many people experience with this ailment include dry skin that becomes red and inflamed, and in severe cases, blisters may develop between the toes. Proper preventive methods consist of washing the feet, followed by drying them completely. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes, such as flip-flops or water shoes, while in these types of areas. Many people seek expert medical attention that can provide relief, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can prescribe the correct medications for athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC.  Dr. Zirna will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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