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An injury that has damaged the ligaments of the ankle is often referred to as an ankle sprain. If the ligaments completely tear, the sprain is said to be severe, and can produce extreme pain and discomfort. If the ligaments become irritated, you may have endured a mild ankle sprain, and this may happen as a result of overstretching. Once the injury has occurred, a proper diagnosis is typically performed, which can be helpful in ruling out a broken ankle. Many patients find it beneficial to wrap the affected ankle in an elastic bandage, as this aids in providing necessary support as the healing process occurs. If you feel you have sprained your ankle, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so they can effectively treat this condition.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

One common cause of Morton’s neuroma includes wearing footwear that is too tight for your feet. This condition may occur when a nerve between the toes becomes pinched and inflamed, often causing a numbing or tingling feeling in the affected foot. Some patients have also expressed it felt as if they were walking with a pebble in their shoe, as well as a burning felt in the forefoot. Along with ill fitting footwear, certain foot deformities may also be a factor in the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some conditions that increase your risk of developing a neuroma may include hammertoes and bunions. To help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with this condition, patients have found using insoles and custom orthotics to be quite helpful. If you believe you have developed Morton’s neuroma and would like more information on how to treat this condition, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle 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 Visalia, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you feel a tingling, burning, or numbing sensation in your feet, you may be experiencing symptoms related to a foot condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. With this condition, pain is typically felt in the sole, heel, and arch areas of the foot. Some patients who have had this condition also say they experienced a sensation that feels like pins and needles in the feet. Tarsal tunnel syndrome may develop when the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed or pinched. Other reasons for its development may include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. To help alleviate pain, it may be beneficial to perform light stretches that focus on strengthening the calf muscles. For more advice on how to treat this ailment, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and professional care.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Valley Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 office located in Visalia, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!