Items filtered by date: July 2023

Plantar fasciitis is not only the most common cause of heel pain but also inhibits the ability to perform daily activities. This condition is caused by the tearing and subsequent inflammation of a thick band of tissue under the foot called the plantar fascia. It results in a deep, stabbing pain in the heel and is common among runners as well as people who are overweight. Specific stretching exercises can help to relieve the effects of plantar fasciitis. To loosen tight calf muscles, lean against a wall with one foot back and the other in front. Bend the front knee while keeping the back leg straight. Hold for about 10 seconds and repeat a few times. To loosen the foot muscles, sit in a chair barefoot and roll a tennis ball back and forth along the sole of the foot. Towel curls can also stretch the toe and foot muscles. Sit in a chair with bare feet flat on the floor and a small towel beneath the foot. Grab the towel with the toes curling the towel toward the heel. Relax the foot and repeat five times. For more help with the effects of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Dr. Zirna to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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 that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by repetitive pressure. The tibial nerve is affected by this ailment and is located inside the tarsal tunnel. There are various reasons why this nerve can become irritated. People who have severely flat feet may have ankle pain, possibly indicating tarsal tunnel syndrome has developed. Additionally, inflammation from medical conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, may lead to getting tarsal tunnel syndrome. People who are born with certain foot deformities may experience this condition as well and are generally under the care of a podiatrist. Additional symptoms that are associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome can consist of pain in the Achilles tendon area, swollen ankles, or a feeling of warmth when touched. If you have this condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment options.

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.

People who have bunions report it can be one of the most painful foot conditions to have. It is defined as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe, and will gradually become larger if treatment is not received. A bunion can be caused by genetic reasons, or from wearing shoes that have a tapered toe area. High heels can fit into this category, and it is beneficial to choose shoes that have a lower heel if these types of shoes need to be worn. Corns and calluses may form on top of the toes, as they touch the top of the shoe. This can be uncomfortable, and mild relief may be felt when the shoes that are worn can accommodate the bunion. If the bunion becomes severe and causes the inability to complete daily activities, surgery may be an option to consider for removal and permanent relief. If you see a bunion that is starting to form, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who offers you treatment options that are right for you. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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 care needs.

Anyone who has encountered a blister on their foot is aware of the discomfort and inconvenience it can cause. A blister is defined as a small area of fluid that forms over skin that has become damaged for various reasons. A blister is the body’s natural response to healing raw skin, and it is successful in protecting the affected area until new skin has formed. A blister on the foot can be caused by excess friction, which may happen from the shoes and socks that are worn. They may be too tight and not fit well, causing the skin to endure unwanted pressure. A blister will gradually drain when the new skin has grown, and it is beneficial to refrain from popping it. If this happens, an infection may occur, and the condition may worsen. Many people choose to wear a bandage over the blister that can protect it while completing daily activities. If you develop blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you effective preventive techniques.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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 care needs.