Items filtered by date: October 2023

Nighttime foot cramps are a common and disruptive issue, affecting up to 60 percent of adults. They can be caused by inactivity, poor posture, and sleeping positions that restrict blood flow and compress nerves. Overexerting foot muscles through excessive activity or fatigue can lead to muscle cramping, as can wearing improper footwear or working on hard surfaces. Dehydration, often from inadequate water intake or illness, can result in foot muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B-12, thiamin, folate, magnesium, and potassium, can lead to nerve damage and cause cramps. Excessive alcohol use may cause nerve damage and alcoholic neuropathy that may contribute to foot cramps. Pregnancy, especially in the later stages, can bring on leg and foot cramps, possibly due to increased weight and nutritional deficiencies. Certain health conditions like peripheral arterial disease, kidney disease, anemia, and diabetes can also be associated with nighttime foot cramps. If your foot cramps occur frequently and do not improve even after making adjustments to your routine, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This specialist in foot and ankle care can perform a thorough evaluation, provide you with a proper diagnosis, and recommend treatment options to alleviate your discomfort. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, is a condition affecting the cuboid bone in the middle of the foot. It typically arises from foot injuries or dislocation that result in the tearing of the joints and ligaments around the cuboid bone. It is often associated with sports that stress the feet or individuals with significant overpronation. The primary symptom is foot pain and weakness, particularly when bearing weight. Swelling, tenderness, and redness may accompany these symptoms, hindering daily activities and sometimes causing a limp. Diagnosis can be challenging, as imaging tests may not consistently reveal the condition. If you have pain on the outside of the foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and tailored treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, or CMT, is a group of genetic disorders that affect the peripheral nerves responsible for transmitting signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. It can also impact the nerves controlling muscle function. Symptoms typically manifest in adolescence or early adulthood, often beginning in the feet and lower legs before spreading to the hands and arms. Common signs include muscle weakness, reduced muscle bulk, diminished reflexes, sensory loss, and foot deformities. CMT is a genetic condition, with various types resulting from mutations in different genes. The two primary categories are CMT1, characterized by issues with the myelin sheath surrounding nerves, and CMT2, involving abnormalities in the nerve axons themselves. CMT3, or Dejerine-Sottas disease, is a severe form that begins in infancy. There is no cure for CMT, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining mobility. If you know you have Charcot-Marie Tooth disease or have symptoms characterizing this disease, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Runners know the importance of a good pair of shoes that help to clock in the miles comfortably and safely. But like any other piece of equipment, running shoes have a lifespan. If you are wondering whether it is time to bid farewell to your old shoes, here are some signs to look out for. First, pay attention to the wear and tear on the soles. If the treads are worn down, especially in specific areas, this can lead to reduced traction and increased risk of slipping or injury. Second, listen to your body. If you are experiencing unexplained pain in your feet, ankles, or knees, worn-out shoes could be the cause. They may no longer provide the necessary support and cushioning, which causes stress on your joints. Running shoes typically have a life span of 300 to 500 miles, depending on various factors. If you have surpassed this range, it is time to shop for a new pair. If you need guidance in the life span and safety of your running shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation.  

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists of Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

For individuals living with diabetes, foot care is an important aspect of managing their overall health. Diabetes can lead to nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the extremities, making the feet particularly vulnerable to injuries and complications. To ensure optimal foot health, regular monitoring is key. This can begin with inspecting your feet daily for signs of blisters, cuts, redness, or swelling. Wash the feet with mild soap, gently pat them dry, and pay attention to the spaces between the toes. Having properly trimmed nails, avoiding walking barefoot, and wearing well-fitting, comfortable shoes are also essential. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can perform thorough routine inspections, helping you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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