Items filtered by date: April 2024

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the nerves in the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. This condition is characterized by a thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve, leading to compression and irritation. Morton's neuroma is often associated with stress or trauma to the foot, such as wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or participating in activities that involve repetitive impact on the forefoot. Additionally, foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or high arches can contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma by placing increased pressure on the nerves. Certain factors like foot structure, gait abnormalities, and genetic predisposition may also play a role. Individuals with Morton's neuroma typically experience symptoms such as sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness, and a sensation of having a pebble in the shoe. It is beneficial to recognize the early symptoms of Morton’s neuroma which may help to increase the possibility of prompt relief. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with expert medical advice.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM of Nashville Podiatry. 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 Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken ankle can be a painful and debilitating injury, impacting mobility and daily activities. Understanding its causes and symptoms is vital for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. An ankle fracture commonly occurs due to a sudden twisting or rolling motion of the ankle, often during activities like sports or falls. The severity of the fracture can vary, ranging from a hairline crack to a complete break of the bone. Symptoms typically include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. In some cases, there may be visible deformity or an audible snap or pop at the time of injury. Additionally, individuals may experience numbness or tingling in the foot or ankle area. Seeking medical attention promptly is vital to assess the extent of the injury and prevent complications. There are various treatment methods for a broken ankle. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the best relief and treatment plan is for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Selecting the right shoes for walking on concrete is essential to safeguard foot health and enhance comfort during the workday. Opt for shoes with ample cushioning to absorb the impact of each step and minimize stress on the feet, ankles, and knees. Look for designs with supportive features such as arch support and sturdy soles to maintain proper alignment and stability. Additionally, consider shoes with a roomy toe box to prevent cramping and allow for natural toe splay. A durable outsole with adequate grip is vital for traction on concrete surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Breathable materials like mesh or perforations promote airflow, preventing overheating and moisture buildup. Finally, ensure a proper fit by trying on shoes in the afternoon when feet tend to swell and allowing enough room for socks. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes during the workday, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat any foot condition, and guide you toward what type of shoes to purchase.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Custom-made foot orthotics are personalized shoe inserts crafted to address specific foot issues and biomechanical imbalances. They offer tailored support and comfort, making them highly effective in treating various conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, and types of arthritis. Compared to off-the-shelf shoe inserts, custom-made orthotics provide superior support and alignment correction because they are designed based on a detailed assessment of an individual's foot structure, gait pattern, and specific needs. This customization ensures optimal fit and functionality and results in better outcomes and increased comfort for the wearer. The process of making custom orthotics typically involves taking impressions or scans of the feet, followed by precise measurements and molding of materials to create inserts that fit the unique contours of your foot. This meticulous approach ensures that the orthotics provide the necessary support and alleviate symptoms associated with certain foot conditions, ultimately improving mobility and overall quality of life. If you have foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and discussion of whether custom orthotics can help you.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM at Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention. 

Medical Grade Shoe Inserts: 

A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In the intricate dance of running, the harmony between foot bones and muscles orchestrates efficient movement and propulsion. The foot's 26 bones form a dynamic framework, absorbing impact forces and providing stability. As the foot strikes the ground, the bones distribute weight evenly, while the arches act as natural shock absorbers, cushioning the impact. Meanwhile, a complex network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments orchestrates movement. The calf muscles, including the gastrocnemius and soleus, contract to propel the body forward, while the muscles of the foot and ankle, such as the tibialis anterior and posterior, stabilize the foot and control its motion. Additionally, intrinsic foot muscles fine-tune balance and control, ensuring precise movements with each stride. Through this intricate interplay, the bones and muscles of the foot synchronize seamlessly, enabling runners to achieve efficiency, speed, and endurance, while minimizing the risk of injury. If you have endured a foot injury while running, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can guide you toward appropriate treatment methods.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Foot blood blisters are small pockets of fluid that form between the layers of skin in response to friction or pressure. They typically occur when blood vessels near the skin's surface rupture, causing blood to pool within the blister. These blisters can vary in size and may appear red, purple, or even black due to the presence of blood. Common causes of foot blood blisters include wearing ill-fitting shoes that rub against the skin, excessive friction from activities such as running or hiking, and repetitive trauma to the feet. Additionally, certain foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes can predispose individuals to developing blood blisters. Athletes and individuals who spend prolonged periods on their feet are also at increased risk. Preventing foot blood blisters involves wearing properly fitted shoes, using protective padding or bandages on areas prone to friction, and gradually increasing activity levels to allow the skin to adapt. Proper foot care and attention to footwear can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of developing these painful blisters. If you have developed a blood blister on your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can inspect and treat this foot condition.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM of Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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