Morton's neuroma develops when tissue thickens around a nerve in the forefoot, commonly between the third and fourth toes. This condition often causes a burning sensation, tingling, or the feeling of stepping on a small object. Wearing tight shoes and high heels can increase pressure on the nerve and worsen the pain.  A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma by assessing symptoms and using digital imaging as needed. Treatment may involve changing footwear, using orthotics to relieve pressure, or receiving injections to reduce inflammation. If non-surgical methods do not provide relief, surgery may be considered to either remove the affected nerve or release surrounding tissue to reduce compression. Surgical recovery typically allows walking in a protective shoe soon after the procedure, with most people returning to regular footwear within a few weeks. If you are experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options, which may include surgery.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM of Florida. 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 Longwood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures are tiny hairline cracks in bones caused by repeated stress, especially common in the metatarsal bones of the feet. They are caused by activities involving frequent running, jumping, or dancing. Stress fractures, which are considered to be an overuse injury, lead to pain during physical activity, swelling, bruising, and tenderness when touched. Because stress fractures in the metatarsal bones are not easily detected through standard X-rays, a podiatrist may order advanced imaging, like a bone scan, for an accurate diagnosis. Treatment generally involves resting the affected area, using supportive devices like casts or protective footwear, or possibly surgery to ensure proper bone healing. Preventing metatarsal stress fractures includes gradually increasing activity levels and avoiding pushing through pain, which can result in further injury or prolonged recovery. If you suspect you have sustained a metatarsal foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Arthroscopic ankle surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a podiatrist to diagnose and repair damaged tissues in the ankle joint. Using a small camera called an arthroscope, the podiatrist can assess the condition of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons through small incisions. This method is commonly used to treat ligament tears, loose bone or cartilage fragments, and scar tissue that may be causing pain or limiting movement. Ankle arthroscopy can also help reduce discomfort caused by arthritis or impingement, where swollen tissues restrict joint motion. The procedure involves inserting surgical instruments through additional small incisions to repair or remove damaged structures. Compared to open surgery, arthroscopy generally results in less pain and a shorter recovery time. However, healing can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the extent of the repair. A podiatrist can evaluate whether arthroscopic ankle surgery is appropriate and provide guidance on the recovery process. If you would like more information about arthroscopic ankle repair, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Fibromyalgia can cause persistent foot pain, often affecting the heels, arches, toes, and ankles. This chronic disorder heightens sensitivity in the nervous system, making weight-bearing activities uncomfortable. Many patients experience aching, burning, or stabbing sensations in their feet, which can fluctuate in intensity. Stiffness, swelling, and tenderness are also common, particularly in the morning or after prolonged standing. Poor circulation, common in fibromyalgia, may contribute to cold feet or a tingling sensation. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or prolonged pressure on the feet can worsen symptoms, making everyday movement difficult. While fibromyalgia does not directly damage the foot’s structure, ongoing pain and discomfort can alter walking patterns, leading to strain in the ankles and an increased risk of imbalance. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics, recommend supportive footwear, and provide custom orthotics to ease discomfort. They may also suggest additional treatments to improve mobility and alleviate pain. If you have foot pain connected to fibromyalgia, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

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 Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. 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 Longwood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.