Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space in the ankle known as the tarsal tunnel. This compression leads to numbness, tingling, and pain in the foot and ankle. The primary cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome is excessive pressure or swelling within the tunnel. This can result from conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or fluid retention. Other factors contributing to the syndrome include flat feet, which can cause structural changes that press on the nerve, and injuries or trauma to the ankle that lead to inflammation. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fibromatosis, also known as Ledderhose disease, is a condition characterized by the growth of fibrous nodules, or fibromas, in the plantar fascia, the tissue on the sole of the foot. Its cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors, trauma, or repetitive stress on the feet. It is more common in individuals with other fibromatoses, such as Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition where the tissue under the skin of the palm thickens, causing the fingers, usually the ring and pinky, to curl inward over time. Diagnosis involves a physical exam where firm nodules can be felt under the skin. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI scans, may be used to assess the extent of the condition and rule out other issues like plantar fasciitis. Management typically begins conservatively with treatments like orthotics to relieve discomfort. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be needed to remove the nodules, though recurrence rates can be high post-surgery. If you have a nodule on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an inflammatory condition that commonly affects the joints, including those in the feet. People with RA often experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness in the smaller joints of the toes and forefoot. Over time, if not properly managed, this can lead to joint deformities, nodules, and even altered foot shape. Foot issues from rheumatoid arthritis can affect mobility and quality of life, making it harder to perform daily activities. A podiatrist can help alleviate discomfort by prescribing custom orthotics, addressing inflammation, and offering treatments to slow joint damage. They can also address associated skin problems, like corns and calluses, which often develop from pressure points on the feet. Early intervention and continuous care are essential to prevent further complications. If you have foot pain related to rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.