Items filtered by date: November 2023

Morton’s neuroma is a painful and often underestimated condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically targeting the web space between the third and fourth toes. More prevalent in middle-aged women, this condition can be debilitating, impacting one's daily activities. The discomfort of Morton’s neuroma may start as a subtle ache after walking, standing, or engaging in impact activities, but eventually it becomes more consistent and intense. Morton’s neuroma primarily targets the interdigital nerve, leading to swelling and thickening of the fibrous tissue surrounding the nerve. This compression can result in numbness or a pins and needles sensation in the forefoot. As it progresses, the pain may extend beyond the web space and radiate into the metatarsals. Patients often describe feeling as if there is a pebble or stone in their shoe. This unique sensation is a result of increased swelling and fibrotic thickening around the neuroma, causing an enlargement of the affected area. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.

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.

One common question new parents often have is when to start putting shoes on their babies. The general consensus among pediatricians and experts is that babies do not need shoes until they are walking. Before that, it is best to let them explore the world barefoot or with soft, flexible booties. Babies' feet are still developing, and walking barefoot helps their muscles and bones grow naturally. It also allows them to better sense the ground, improving their balance and coordination. Soft-soled shoes or booties can be used for warmth or protection when necessary. When your baby starts taking those first steps, typically between nine and 18 months, it is time to consider their first pair of shoes. Ensure that the shoes fit well, are flexible, and provide good traction. If you are seeking more information about when to fit your child for their first pair of shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Diabetes is a complex condition that affects various parts of the body, and one often underestimated area is the feet. One of the most common diabetes-related foot problems is neuropathy, which can result in a loss of sensation. Additionally, it can cause tingling, pain, or weakness in the foot. This loss of sensation can lead to injuries that are unnoticed, such as stepping on a tack or developing a blister, which can worsen and become infected. In addition, nerve damage can also alter the shape of your feet and toes, making it essential to avoid wearing ill-fitting shoes. Having high blood sugar levels for an extended period of time can also cause blood vessels in the foot and leg to narrow and harden, inhibiting proper blood flow to the extremities. This poor circulation to the feet makes them less able to heal and fight off infections and can result in the development of ulcers. If left unattended, foot ulcers can turn into gangrene and possibly the loss of a limb. Wearing proper footwear, lifestyle changes, and working closely with your podiatrist are essential steps in managing diabetes and protecting your feet from complications. If you have foot problems that result from diabetes, it is suggested that you make regular appointments to see a podiatrist for checkups. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 and ankle needs.

Flatfoot is characterized by the loss of the foot's arch, leading to an abducted forefoot and a hindfoot deformity. The two types of flat feet are flexible and rigid flatfoot. In flexible flatfoot, the arch appears when not bearing weight, but disappears when weight is applied. Conversely, in rigid flatfoot, the arch is consistently absent. Flexible flatfoot often appears in young children and may self-resolve. Its frequency in adults is unclear, due to frequent misdiagnosis. The disorder can be either congenital or developed over time. Flexible flatfoot results from ligament laxity, while adult-acquired flatfoot is attributed to posterior tibial tendon insufficiency, potentially caused by factors like obesity, neuropathy, or trauma. Rigid flatfoot results from bone irregularities or arthritis. A missing foot arch and deformities are noticeable upon examination. If you have flatfoot and it is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine which type of flat foot you have, in addition to providing appropriate relief and treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor 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 office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.