Morton's neuroma affects the foot, specifically involving a thickening of the tissue that surrounds a nerve leading to the toes. It is often found between the third and fourth metatarsals. This condition typically causes significant discomfort, resulting in a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. Individuals may also experience tingling or numbness in the toes, which can feel like there is a pebble in the shoe. Symptoms often worsen during activities that put pressure on the forefoot, such as wearing tight shoes or high heels. Swelling may also occur, further complicating the discomfort. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for effective management and relief. If you suspect you have Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you seek medical advice from a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and help you explore treatment options.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy, a condition affecting the peripheral nerves, often causes symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in the feet. It is commonly caused by diabetes, where prolonged high blood sugar levels damage nerve fibers. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Individuals with peripheral neuropathy may experience difficulty walking, balance issues, and a higher risk of foot injuries due to reduced sensation. To prevent peripheral neuropathy, managing underlying conditions like diabetes is important. This includes maintaining stable blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication. Regular foot inspections from a podiatrist for injuries or abnormalities are essential for those affected. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment plans.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A common Achilles tendon injury known as Achilles tendinopathy is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon, the thick band connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition often manifests as a dull ache or stiffness in the back of the heel, particularly noticeable during or after physical activity. Common symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and a decrease in flexibility. The primary causes of Achilles tendinopathy include repetitive strain from overuse, sudden increases in activity, and wearing poor footwear. Factors like tight calf muscles or improper running technique can also contribute to the development of this condition. An Achilles tendon injury can lead to severe pain, and most likely will cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have sustained this type of injury, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can begin the treatment process.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Unfortunately heel pain happens to many people. It is often caused by inflammation or injury to the tissues in the heel. The most frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes becomes irritated. Early symptoms include sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting. Risks include obesity, excessive physical activity, and wearing unsupportive shoes. Complications from untreated heel pain include chronic discomfort and altered gait, which may strain other joints and muscles. Those most at risk are athletes, individuals with flat feet or high arches, and people who stand for long periods of time. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam and, if necessary, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to assess the extent of damage. For persistent heel pain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide an effective treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.