Professional Foot and Ankle Nerve Care
Nerve conditions in the foot and ankle can have symptoms ranging from tingling, burning, and numbness, to pain and the feeling of electric shock in the area. Symptoms can also be felt on the inside of the ankle, the bottom of the foot, or into the heel, arch, and toes, depending on the cause. If you are experiencing any symptoms of foot nerve pain, it's important to seek early treatment. Left untreated, nerve conditions in the foot and ankle can progress and may result in permanent nerve damage.
Common Causes of Neuropathy in Feet
Other than diabetic peripheral neuropathy, tarsal tunnel syndrome and Morton’s neuroma are the two most common nerve disorders affecting the foot and ankle. The posterior tibial nerve runs along the inside of the ankle, through bones and ligaments into the foot. When the nerve becomes compressed, usually after a prior injury, it can cause symptoms anywhere along the nerve. When this happens, it is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS). Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, symptoms include numbness, tingling, shooting pain in the foot, and sometimes a burning sensation.
Morton’s neuroma occurs at the base of the third and fourth toes and happens when the tissue around the nerve thickens. Though neuromas can occur in other places on your foot, this particular location is the most common. Morton’s neuroma can be caused by pressure or injury, most commonly from tight shoes, such as climbing shoes, running shoes, or high heels. As the shoes compress the nerve, it becomes irritated and thickens gradually. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling at the site, numbness, and the feeling of a rock or bump under your foot.
Our Treatment Approach to Foot and Ankle Nerve Conditions
When it comes to nerve damage, it is important to obtain early diagnosis and treatment to lessen the need for more invasive treatments and surgery. In some cases, we will order an MRI and/or EMG (Electromyography – a nerve conduction study) to evaluate the condition of the nerve. From there, treatment can include any combination of Physical Therapy, injections, medications, orthotic devices, bracing, or surgery.
After treatment, we will help you implement long-term measures to keep your symptoms from returning. We also focus on educational training and guidance on proper footwear, activity modifications, and small lifestyle changes that have a big impact. At Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle, you’ll benefit from our extensive experience treating nerve disorders in the foot and ankle.
Take the First Step Toward Wellness
An investment in your feet is an investment in your quality of life.