Tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition affecting the inner ankle and foot, arises from compression of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. This tunnel, enclosed by bone and soft tissues, houses nerves, arteries, and tendons. When pressure on the tibial nerve increases, it can result in tarsal tunnel syndrome. Causes vary, with one primary factor being overuse, leading to inflammation and swelling within the tunnel. Flat feet or conditions altering foot biomechanics may contribute by narrowing the tunnel and compressing the nerve. Ankle injuries, cysts, or tumors within the tunnel can exacerbate the compression, as can systemic conditions like diabetes or arthritis. Symptoms encompass tingling, burning sensations, and pain radiating to the arch, heel, or toes. Recognizing these indicators and understanding the diverse causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome is vital for timely intervention. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Darren Day, DPM of Hawaii. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Honolulu and Kahuku, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, can lead to several complications if not properly managed. Chronic gout can cause persistent pain and swelling in the joints, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life. Over time, the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints can lead to tophi, which are lumpy deposits that can be felt under the skin. These tophi can become inflamed or infected, causing further discomfort and complications. Repeated gout attacks can also lead to joint damage and deformity, particularly in the big toe, feet, ankles, and knees. This damage can be debilitating, leading to reduced joint function and chronic pain. Moreover, gout is often associated with other serious health conditions, including kidney stones as a result of excess uric acid. It can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease. These complications underscore the importance of making an appointment with a podiatrist. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can offer you relief and preventive options. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Darren Day, DPM from Hawaii. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Fungal nail infections, medically known as onychomycosis, can be stubborn and challenging to treat. Traditional methods consisting of topical antifungal creams or oral medications may not always provide the desired results. In such cases, laser treatment for fungal nails has emerged as an alternative solution. Laser treatment, often referred to as laser therapy or laser fungal nail treatment, is a non-invasive procedure designed to target and eradicate the fungal infection in toenails or fingernails. During the procedure, a specialized laser emits a focused beam of light, which generates heat that penetrates the infected nail and the underlying fungal structures. This controlled heat effectively kills the fungus without causing damage to surrounding tissues. Laser treatment for fungal nails is considered a safe and efficient option, particularly for individuals who are reluctant to use or cannot tolerate traditional medications. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if laser treatment is right for you.  

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with Darren Day, DPM from Hawaii. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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