Items filtered by date: December 2020

A plantar fibroma is a benign nodule that develops in the arch of the foot, specifically within the plantar fascia, the tissue band extending from the heel to the toes. Those with a plantar fibroma often notice a firm lump in the arch of their foot, which can either stay consistent in size or grow slowly over time. This lump often leads to discomfort or pain, particularly when walking, standing, or applying pressure to the foot, such as when wearing shoes. The pain is usually due to the fibroma pressing against the footwear or ground. As a result, individuals might experience changes in their walking pattern and such changes can further affect overall foot function and comfort. If you think you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM of Georgia. 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 office located in Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries, though often underestimated, can be a formidable adversary in the realm of physical well-being. When the Achilles tendon, the largest one in the human body, succumbs to strain or trauma, a cascade of challenges unfolds. Expect a journey of patience and resilience as healing time can vary, requiring a delicate balance of rest and rehabilitation. The onset may start as a sudden sharp pain or a gradual ache, demanding attention to avoid making it worse. Mobility may be compromised, necessitating a change in daily activities. As the healing process unfolds, anticipate the gradual return to normalcy, guided by a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. Embrace the process, as understanding and managing expectations become vital companions on the path to recovery from Achilles tendon injuries. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can customize an appropriate treatment plan for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM of Georgia. Our doctor 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 office located in Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Running is a fantastic way to stay fit and relieve stress, but it can also take a toll on your feet and shoes. This is where the practice of running shoe rotation comes into play. It involves switching between different pairs of running shoes to distribute the impact and wear more evenly. The importance of running shoe rotation lies in several key benefits. First, it prolongs the lifespan of your shoes. Continuous use of the same pair can lead to faster wear and tear, reducing their support and cushioning. Rotating between multiple pairs allows each shoe to recover between runs. Additionally, it helps prevent overuse injuries. Each pair of running shoes has a unique cushioning and support system. By alternating between them, you may reduce the risk of overloading specific muscle groups and joints. This can help to lower the risk of injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. Different shoes can provide variations in comfort and performance, giving your feet a break from repetitive motion and potentially improving your performance. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, incorporating a rotation schedule into your running routine can help keep your feet healthy and your runs enjoyable. For more information about running shoes and the importance of rotating them or if you have endured a foot or ankle injury from running, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain, often described as a stabbing sensation. One leading factor is excessive or repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. This stress can result from activities such as running, standing for extended periods, or wearing inadequate footwear. Obesity can also contribute to plantar fasciitis, as the extra weight increases pressure on the feet. Tight calf muscles and inadequate stretching can lead to an abnormal gait, putting strain on the fascia. Furthermore, age and certain foot arch types may play a role in developing this condition. Recognizing these causes can guide individuals in making lifestyle adjustments and seeking timely treatment to alleviate plantar fasciitis and regain comfort in their daily lives. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment methods.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM  from Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Changes to your toes and toenails can serve as silent indicators of your overall health. They may reveal underlying health issues, such as arthritis, heart disease, anemia, and diabetes. Painful, inflamed toe joints could be a sign of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or gout. Clubbed toes, characterized by toe enlargement and curving toenails, may suggest lung or heart problems. Toenails that appear scooped out might be linked to anemia or autoimmune disorders. Tingling, burning, or numbness in your toes are common signs of peripheral neuropathy, often associated with diabetes. Be vigilant about changes in your toenails or the appearance of any suspicious moles, as melanoma can also affect your toes. Also, nail bed changes, like half-and-half nails, where half of the nail bed appears white while the other half is a shade of red, pink, or brown, may indicate kidney disease. Washed-out toenails, with white or pale nails and a pink or brown band, can point to liver conditions. These subtle indicators can provide valuable insights into your well-being and for that reason should not be ignored. If you have noticed distinct changes to your toes or toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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