May 2020

Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition caused by an enlarged nerve or thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Those who have experienced this condition often relay feeling pain in the ball of their foot. Common symptoms that can accompany Morton’s neuroma include burning in the ball of your foot that can also be reached in the toes, a numbing or tingling sensation felt in the toes, and feeling as if a pebble is stuck inside your shoe. To help relieve the discomfort of Morton’s neuroma, patients have found custom orthotics and acupuncture to be beneficial. In order to properly diagnose this condition and to receive prompt treatment, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for professional care and attention.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are several physical changes that accompany pregnancy which can possibly lead to foot pain. This may be a result of the increased weight the growing fetus puts on the body, hormonal changes, or from eating foods that have high levels of sodium. Many pregnant women notice it may become difficult to complete daily activities when their feet are swollen. Research has indicated it is beneficial to elevate the feet as often as possible, in addition to performing gentle foot stretches. Comfort can be found when shoes fit properly, and the correct shoe size can be determined when the feet are measured during the day. If you would like additional information about the effects pregnancy can have on the feet, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Toenail fungus is an unsightly foot condition that develops as a result of a fungal infection. This is considered to be contagious, and can be found in warm and moist environments. These often include public swimming pools, communal shower room floors, and locker rooms. Additionally, patients may develop this condition from having pedicures with tools that may not be properly disinfected. Existing medical conditions may lead to developing toenail fungus, which may consist of having diabetes, or a compromised immune system. If a toenail injury has occurred, it may weaken the nail, which may make it prone to contracting a fungus. Common symptoms that are associated with this ailment can include the toenail becoming thick and yellowed,  and in severe cases, it may become brittle and fall off. It is suggested that if you see symptoms of a toenail fungus developing, that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Heel spurs are small calcium deposits that develop on the heel of the foot. They can develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and can generally cause severe pain and discomfort. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of difficulty in walking upon arising in the morning, and there may be an obvious protrusion on the heel. Abnormal foot structures may cause heel spurs to gradually develop, or they may come from consistently participating in running and jumping activities. Relief may be found when shoes are worn that can accommodate the heel spur, and it may help to support your foot while resting at night. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.