Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by a thickening of tissue around a nerve between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It often affects people who wear tight or high-heeled shoes, perform repetitive foot movements, or have foot issues like flat feet or bunions. Symptoms include a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot, tingling, or a sensation like there is a pebble in your shoe. The discomfort typically worsens with activity or pressure on the area. Relief options include wearing wider shoes, using cushioned insoles or pads, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. If you have severe pain from Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who may recommend corticosteroid injections, targeted exercises, or possibly surgery.

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 Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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 Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition is most commonly seen in the big toe and is often the result of wearing improper footwear, poor nail trimming, or injury. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include redness, tenderness surrounding the nail, and in some cases, the presence of pus if an infection develops. Conservative treatment for an ingrown toenail typically includes soaking the foot in warm water and wearing comfortable shoes. If the condition does not improve or the nail becomes infected, more advanced treatments may be necessary. Surgical management may involve partial or complete removal of the affected toenail to prevent recurrence. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common symptom of ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. This condition causes pain and stiffness in the back, but it can also lead to inflammation in other areas, including the heels. The pain is often the result of enthesitis, which is the inflammation of the tendons and ligaments where they attach to the bones. In ankylosing spondylitis, the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia, both of which are connected to the heel, are frequently affected. The heel pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis can be persistent and may worsen with activity or after long periods of rest. The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not fully understood, but it is believed to have a genetic component, with certain genes increasing the likelihood of developing the condition. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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 Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The human foot is a complex structure made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These components work together to provide stability, flexibility, and mobility. The foot is divided into three main sections, which are the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. The toes, or phalanges, and the metatarsals form the forefoot, while the midfoot contains the arches and bones that absorb shock. The hindfoot consists of the heel, or calcaneus, and ankle bones, providing support and balance. Muscles and tendons in the foot enable movement, from walking to running, while ligaments help to stabilize the joints. The arches of the foot, formed by the bones and supported by muscles and tendons, play a key role in shock absorption and weight distribution. Proper foot function is essential for overall mobility and posture. A podiatrist can help identify and treat conditions affecting the foot's bones, muscles, or joints. If you have a foot condition or foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors 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 offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly affecting those between the ages of eight and 14. It occurs due to inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, known as the calcaneal apophysis. This condition is often triggered by repetitive physical activities such as running, jumping, or sports that put stress on the feet. The primary risk factors include being involved in high-impact sports, having tight Achilles tendons, and being overweight. Children who have flat feet or high arches may also be at higher risk. Symptoms typically include pain and tenderness at the heel, especially during or after physical activity. The pain may improve with rest but can worsen with continued activity. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and relief methods.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.