Understanding Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It is caused by a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes, often due to repetitive stress, tight footwear, high heels, or abnormal foot structure. Symptoms include a sharp, burning pain in the forefoot, tingling or numbness in the toes, and the sensation of having a pebble or fold in the sock. The pain may worsen with walking or wearing shoes and may ease when the foot is at rest. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma through a physical examination, review of symptoms, and imaging tests if necessary. Treatment options include footwear changes, custom orthotics, corticosteroid injections, or in severe cases, surgical removal of the affected nerve. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and begin effective treatment for lasting relief.

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 Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Causes of Heel Pain in Soccer Players

Heel pain is a common problem among soccer players due to the constant stress placed on the feet during running, kicking, and sudden changes in direction. The repetitive impact of striking the ball, jumping, and landing can strain the heel structures. This often leads to plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the fat pad, or irritation surrounding the heel bone. Stress fractures of the heel bone and the development of heel spurs are also linked to overuse during play. In some cases, nerve compression in the foot or irritation of the small muscles near the heel can contribute to persistent pain. Worn-out cleats, hard playing surfaces, and limited recovery time can worsen the condition. A podiatrist can perform a full exam to identify the exact cause of heel pain. Treatment may include custom orthotics, medical management, or surgery, if needed. If you experience heel pain after playing sports, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Why Foot Exercises Are Important

Strong and flexible feet play a vital role in balance, mobility, and reducing the risk of injury. Exercises designed for the feet, toes, and ankles can improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, which may help reduce stiffness and discomfort. When the muscles in the feet are strong, they provide better support for the arches and joints. This lowers the chance of experiencing strain during daily activities or exercise. Stretching movements can also keep tendons and ligaments flexible, easing pressure on the heels and arches. Without proper conditioning, your feet may be more vulnerable to heel pain, toe cramps, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can assess foot function, recommend targeted exercises, and guide patients in strengthening weak areas to support overall foot health. Exercises are especially valuable for anyone who spends long hours standing, wears shoes such as flip-flops, or participates in high-impact activities. If you have frequent foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment, which may include specific exercises

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 one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Our doctors 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 Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Get Proper Treatment for Ankle Injuries

If you're experiencing ankle pain, you may be suffering from an ankle injury. Sprains, fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and Achilles tendon ruptures are just some examples of potential ankle injuries. Don't wait for care for an ankle injury, as it may worsen over time. We can help!

What Eases the Pain of Bunions and Bunionettes?

Bunions and bunionettes are deformities of the toes. A bunion occurs as a bony lump on the outside of the big toe. It causes the tip of the toe to excessively angle towards the other toes. A bunionette occurs on the pinky toe. Symptoms of a bunion or bunionette are a bulging bump on the side of the affected toe, swelling or redness around the toe, restricted movement, physical discomfort or pain, numbness, and difficulty walking. Both bunions and bunionettes can be caused or made worse by wearing poorly-fitted, tight, or uncomfortable shoes. Orthotics can help ease the pain associated with bunions and bunionettes by distributing the weight of the body evenly along the surface of the foot and relieving pressure on the affected toes. To find out if orthotics may help you with your bunion pain, please consult with a podiatrist. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes

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