Morton’s neuroma develops when tissue surrounding a nerve between the toes becomes thicker because of repeated pressure or irritation. The problem usually affects the space between the third and fourth toes. As the tissue thickens, it squeezes the nerve and creates pain. Many people describe the feeling as though they are standing on a small pebble or have a fold in their sock. Burning pain, tingling, and numbness are also common. Symptoms usually become worse while walking or wearing tight, narrow shoes. Removing the shoes can bring temporary relief, but discomfort frequently returns when pressure on the nerve continues. Some people notice pain even while resting after a busy day.

Several factors increase the risk of Morton’s neuroma. Shoes that squeeze the toes place extra pressure on the nerve. High-heeled shoes can also increase stress on the front of the foot. Certain foot shapes, like flat feet or high arches, can change the way pressure is spread across the foot. A podiatrist diagnoses the condition by discussing symptoms and carefully examining the foot. Gentle pressure between the toes can help locate the irritated nerve. An ultrasound or MRI scan can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions when a clearer view of the affected area is needed.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan that reduces pressure on the affected nerve and improves comfort. Treatment includes shoes with a wide toe area, custom orthotics, and steroid injections. These options can reduce irritation and make walking more comfortable. When symptoms continue despite treatment, surgery to remove the affected nerve can provide lasting relief. Early diagnosis helps prevent symptoms from becoming more disruptive and allows treatment to begin before pain limits daily activities. Prompt care also helps patients stay active with greater comfort and confidence. If you have symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway 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 Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that can affect children as well as adults. The infection develops when fungi grow in warm, moist areas, especially between the toes or on the soles of the feet. Children who spend time in locker rooms, swimming pools, or shared changing areas have a greater chance of coming into contact with the fungus. Wearing shoes for long periods can also create a damp environment that allows the infection to spread. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin. Some children develop cracked skin or small blisters that become uncomfortable while walking. Although athlete's foot usually stays on the skin, the infection can spread to the toenails or other parts of the foot when it is not treated promptly.

A podiatrist can determine whether a child's foot problem is athlete's foot or another condition with similar symptoms. Skin problems like eczema or dermatitis can look alike, making a professional diagnosis important. In some cases, the podiatrist gently collects a small skin sample to confirm that a fungus is causing the infection. This simple test helps guide treatment and avoids unnecessary medications. The podiatrist also checks for signs that the infection has spread to the toenails or caused deeper skin damage. Early evaluation helps reduce discomfort and lowers the chance of the infection returning.

Treatment focuses on eliminating the fungal infection and restoring healthy skin. A podiatrist selects prescription creams, topical medications, or oral medication when the infection is more severe. The treatment plan depends on the child's age, symptoms, and the extent of the infection. The podiatrist also identifies factors that contribute to repeated infections, including wearing shoes that do not allow enough airflow or spending time in damp environments. Follow-up visits help confirm that the infection has cleared completely and that healthy skin has returned. Prompt care can prevent complications and allow children to stay active with greater comfort and confidence. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropractor for diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Foot pain can affect people of all ages and make everyday activities more difficult. Because each foot contains many bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments, discomfort can develop from a wide range of problems. Pain may appear suddenly after an injury or develop gradually because of repeated stress on the feet. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and tendon injuries. Bunions, nerve problems, and stress fractures may also contribute to ongoing discomfort. Foot pain can interfere with walking, standing, and exercise, which may reduce overall mobility and quality of life. Since many conditions produce similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is important to determine the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Early podiatry care may also help prevent minor problems from becoming more serious.

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition and the part of the foot involved. Many people experience aching, swelling, or stiffness that limits normal movement. Others notice burning pain or tenderness that becomes worse during daily activities. Some conditions cause pain in the heel, while others affect the arch or the ball of the foot. Changes in foot structure or walking patterns may place additional stress on surrounding tissues, leading to discomfort in other areas of the foot and ankle. Persistent foot pain should not be ignored because untreated problems may affect balance, mobility, and overall foot function. Identifying the source of pain early allows treatment to begin before symptoms continue to progress.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot pain by identifying the underlying cause of discomfort and creating an individualized treatment plan. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates foot structure, joint function, and walking mechanics to determine what is contributing to the symptoms. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and restoring healthy foot function. Early podiatry care may also help patients remain active and reduce the risk of long-term complications. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed near the inner ankle. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist.  The affected nerve plays a key role in sensation and movement within the foot. When pressure builds inside the tarsal tunnel, it disrupts normal nerve function and leads to discomfort. The condition may develop gradually, making it easy to overlook in its early stages. Understanding how it feels and what contributes to it can help individuals seek care at the right time.

Many people with this condition report a burning or tingling sensation that travels along the inside of the ankle into the arch of the foot. Some describe sharp pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Others may feel numbness or a pins-and-needles sensation that becomes more noticeable at night. The discomfort can vary in intensity, but it often interferes with walking, standing, or exercise. Over time, the symptoms may become more persistent and difficult to ignore.

The causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome are often related to pressure or structural changes in the foot. Flat feet are a common factor because they alter foot mechanics and increase strain on the nerve. Swelling from injuries, tendon inflammation, or joint conditions can also narrow the tunnel space. Risk factors include obesity, repetitive stress, prolonged standing, and wearing poorly fitting shoes. Certain medical conditions, including diabetes and arthritis, may further increase the likelihood of nerve compression.

Managing this condition requires a clear understanding of its cause and severity. Early treatment may include rest, wearing supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to reduce pressure. In more advanced cases, medical intervention may be necessary to prevent long-term nerve damage. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway 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 contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.