There is a nerve in the foot that is known as the posterior tibial nerve. This is responsible for movement and feeling to different areas of the foot, and is located inside the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle. The condition that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur if this nerve gets compressed, and it may cause a lack of sensation in the foot. There are common reasons why this condition can develop. These can include a sprained ankle, high arches, or flat feet. Additionally, it may occur as a result of specific medical conditions such as diabetes or a thyroid disorder. Many patients can experience weakened foot muscles, and pain on the bottom of the foot. It may be beneficial to perform certain stretches which help in strengthening the overall foot. If you are experiencing any symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID 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 contact our office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to protrude outward and the toe to angle toward the others. Bunions develop due to pressure on the joint over time, often from wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or foot structure. Genetics play a significant role, as inherited foot shapes, such as flat feet or low arches, can increase susceptibility. Risk factors include high activity levels, wearing narrow footwear, and age. A podiatrist can help by assessing the severity of the bunion, recommending custom orthotics, providing footwear guidance, and discussing treatment options, including conservative care or surgical correction. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a major nerve in the ankle becomes compressed, leading to discomfort in the foot and toes. The tarsal tunnel, which is similar to the carpal tunnel of the wrist, is a narrow passage along the inside of the ankle that contains tendons, blood vessels, and the posterior tibial nerve. When pressure builds in the tarsal tunnel, the nerve may become irritated, producing tingling, burning, or sharp pain that radiates into the sole of the foot or toward the toes. Causes can include ankle sprains, flat feet that strain the tunnel, systemic conditions like diabetes or arthritis, or growths that occupy space in the tunnel. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, nerve function, and gait, and may recommend custom support, medication, or surgery to relieve nerve compression. If you have pain on the inner side of the ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A metatarsal fracture is a break in one of the long bones of the foot that connect the midfoot to the toes. Acute fractures often occur suddenly from trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the foot, twisting an ankle, or experiencing a direct impact during sports. Symptoms may include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Proper diagnosis through imaging is essential to determine the severity and whether the fracture is displaced. Treatment may involve rest, immobilization with a cast or boot, and, in some cases, surgical fixation, where metal pins, screws, or plates are used to stabilize the bone. Aftercare is vital to ensure proper healing. This stage may include gradual weight bearing, targeted exercises, and supportive footwear to restore strength and mobility while preventing future injury. If you suspect a metatarsal fracture, it is suggested that you seek prompt evaluation and follow up care with a podiatrist for optimal recovery.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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