Foot pain is far more common than most people realize. About 81 percent of American adults report experiencing it at some point, and nearly half describe it as debilitating. Foot pain not only limits physical health but also reduces how easily people move through their day and enjoy normal routines. Countless individuals cut back on walking, exercising, or even simple household chores because of persistent discomfort. There has been a growing focus on foot health trends aimed at combating these challenges. Run clubs are surging in popularity, encouraging community activity but also increasing risks of overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis. At the same time, custom orthotics and wearable tech designed with embedded sensors are making strides in monitoring gait, pressure, and early warning signs, especially valuable for athletes and those managing chronic conditions. If your feet are holding you back on a regular basis, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find personalized solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This nerve pressure can lead to tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot or ankle. Causes include injury, swelling, flat feet, or conditions such as arthritis. Risk factors involve repetitive motion, standing for long periods of time, and certain foot structures that increase nerve compression. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition through physical exams and imaging, then offer treatments such as orthotics, or, in some cases, surgical intervention. If you are experiencing unexplained foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Darron Barrus, DPM of Shelby Podiatry. 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 contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition involving thickening of the tissue around a nerve usually located between the third and fourth toes. It is caused by repeated pressure or irritation, often linked to wearing tight shoes, high heels, or engaging in high-impact activities. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the feeling of having a pebble under the foot. Risk factors include foot deformities, poor footwear, and certain sports. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical exam and imaging, then offer treatments such as footwear changes, padding, or custom orthotics. If you are feeling pain or discomfort in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the cause.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Darron Barrus, DPM of Shelby Podiatry. 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 Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a painful type of arthritis that often begins in the big toe but can also affect other joints in the foot or ankle. It results from a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, which may lead to intense pain, swelling, and redness. A podiatrist can help manage gout in the feet by first confirming the diagnosis through a physical exam, and, when needed, testing fluid from the affected joint. During gout flare-ups, a podiatrist can provide targeted treatment to relieve inflammation and reduce discomfort in the affected foot or ankle. If gout becomes chronic, this type of doctor can monitor long-term joint changes and may recommend custom footwear or orthotics to reduce pressure on sensitive joints. In rare cases, surgery may be considered to remove hardened uric acid deposits, called tophi, or to repair joint damage caused by repeated attacks. If you have recurrent foot pain attributed to gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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