Ask The Experts - Experts

Podiatry - Drs Perrone and Goggin

Dr. Perrone is a native of Miami, FL and graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Arts in Marine Affairs with minors in Business and Chemistry. He attended Barry University School of Graduate Medical Sciences, graduating in 2000 with a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine and Master of Science degrees. His honors and Accomplishments include graduating Cum Laude, Member Pi Delta Honor Society, and Merit Scholarship recipient 1997-2000.

Dr. Goggin is a native of California. He graduated from California Lutheran University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. He attended Barry University School of Graduate Medical Sciences, graduating in 1996 with a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine and Master of Science degrees. His honors and Accomplishments include class of 1996 Valedictorian, class of 1996 Dean's Award recipient, 1996 Biomedical Science Award, 1996 Timothy Holbrook Memorial Award of Excellence, Member Pi Delta Honor Society, and Merit Scholarship recipient 1992-1996.

Atlantic Podiatry serves the Treasure Coast area with offices in Fort Pierce and St. Lucie West. In addition, our physicians have clinic hours two days a week at St. Lucie Wound Care Center. Our physicians are on staff at both St. Lucie Medical Center and Lawnwood Regional Medical Center.

Our mission is to provide the highest standard of surgical and non-surgical treatment for conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and leg, including:
*Reconstructive foot & ankle surgery
*Would healing
*Diabetic foot care
*Sports medicine
*Surgical and non-surgical care of foot and ankle injuries & fractures
*Pediatric, adult, and geriatric foot pain
*Orthotics
*Therapeutic shoes

Company Atlantic Podiatry
Address 2209 S. 25th St
Fort Pierce, FL 34947
Phone 772-461-4400
Website http://www.atlanticpodiatry.net

Ask Drs Perrone and Goggin a Question



Recently Answered Questions

  • Question
  • May 15, 2013

3 wks ao I got up from seat rt knee locked sideways inward. I fell hitting my entire rt. side hip, knee, with r. ft twisted under me. thought I had some bruised bones but now unable to bear wt. on r. ft. very painful. x-ray r. ft. shown no fx. rt knee & r. hip becoming more sore. my family doctor dosen't seem worred but I am. the pain is coming up from my foot to knee & hip. pain in ft. is hot then cold cannot stand up on it at all. I have to use walls to hold myself up. what's up? thanks

  • Answer

Based on your description there are several causes of your symptoms with the most concerning being developing RSD/CRPS (Reflex sympathetic Dystrophy) (Complex Region Pain Syndrome). Other causes could be soft tissue injury or a lower back injury. I would recommend you be evaluated by a orthopedist or neurologist immediately.



  • Question
  • May 11, 2013

I am having problems with my left big toe. In the past I've had gout, but this is different. My left big toe has had nail fungus for more than ten years. I took medicine for about one year, but that didn't cure my nail. My Dr. told me it didn't pose a threat to me but he could remove the nail if I wanted, but he would just leave it. That's what I did, and just deal with the discolored nail that gets really thick. Around three weeks ago, my toe started hurting. It looked like my nail was curving on one side, and I was going to get an ingrown toenail. I cut my nail which is really thick and cut the edge where it looked like it might be pressing against the skin. My toe continued to hurt and within the last five days the skin on the very end (top) has gotten hard as concrete (can't even press the skin, it's like a rock), under the skin looks like pooled blood that goes from the side of my toe up and around the end of my toe. It has become very painful for anything that touches it, and the last two days my big toe has swollen down to the knuckle where I now have pain also. The toe is warm to the touch. I've been using a prescription moisturizer on the skin but it has done nothing. So my toe is swollen and painful from the knuckle up, with skin harder than any callous, with red and purple under the entire area. Could you please help? Thank you.

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you have an ingrown toenail (paronychia) with cellulitis (soft tissue infection). The treatment is an incision and drainage of the nail margin and oral antibiotics. I wound recommend you see your doctor immediately for an examination.



  • Question
  • May 6, 2013

Yesterday, my daughter hurt her foot while sliding during softball practice (her foot was tucked up under her as she slid). She felt pain immediately. She has not been able to bear weight on her foot, she can't wiggle her toes without pain, nor can she flex her foot. She had difficulty sleeping last night due to pain, so I took her to the ER this morning. They said her xray didn't show a fracture, but mentioned that happens sometimes in children, and that it could be an occult fracture. I'm worried; her foot is still swelling, and she says her toes are tingling peridically. Are these symptoms of a sprain, or should I get a 2nd opinion? I'm concerned that her foot isn't protected in the ACE wrap; if she stumbles on her crutches, couldn't she hurt her foot more?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a severe sprain. I would highly recommend your daughter be evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist as untreated ankle sprains can lead to ankle instability in the future. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • May 4, 2013

Dear Doctors, I have been having some pain around my left ankle for about 4 weeks now (on the inside, just behind and below the ankle bone) It was at first infrequent but it has been steadily getting worse. It is a little bit swollen and quite sore to the touch. I have had no injury at all. Yesterday I was getting fed up as it was hurting when not even walking so I decided to investigate online and I think I have 'posterior tibial tendonitis' everything seemed to match exactly. I can still (just) stand on my tip toes on my left foot. I am a female, aged 34 in normal health. I have been wearing flip-flops almost exclusively for about 6 weeks. I have packed away the flip-flops and I have it elevated. My question is how long it will take to get better? I'm usually reasonably active and most of that is walking (I don't go running or anything) I have some proper (Birkenstock) shoes that I will now be wearing, but how much rest should I aim for? Reading about how the tendon problem could progress got me quite worried! Can I still ride a bike to get around as there is no impact? Or, is that not resting? Would a 'tubi grip' bandage or some sort of support help? I am traveling long term at the moment and I'm in Vietnam, not very close to any English speaking health care providers so any advice you could give me would be most appreciated.

  • Answer

For treatment of posterior tibial tendonitis, it takes about 3-6 weeks for the inflammation to resolve. Avoiding high impact activities and using a supportive shoe gear is essential. Ice, elevation, mild compression (tubi-grip), and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. If the discomfort still remains despite these measures immobilization in a removable cast walking boot is required. If left untreated this can lead to adult aquired flatfoot.



  • Question
  • May 3, 2013

i rolled my ankle and when i landed on it there was a rock that i fell on, i think i hit the cuboid bone, its swollen brused, i can walk on it but if i turn my foot outwards or inwards it hurts and if i touch the cuboid bone it hurts really bad do u think i might have fractured or chipped the cuboid bone

  • Answer

Based on your description, I wound recommend you have an examination and x-rays as you may have fractured the bone and possibly injured the surrounding tendons. The long term sequelea of an untreated fracture of the cuboid or other rear-foot bone includes early osteoarthritis and tendonitis. With any acute injury RICE therapy is recommended, (REST, ICE, COMPRESSION, ELEVATION). . We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • April 12, 2013

I broke my ankle 10 years ago and had pins inserted. I now have been on my feet working 10 hour days for 6 weeks and I am off work now. My foot hurts so bad that I can't walk without hobbling. Some of the pain is in the top of my foot and sometimes it feels like my 2nd toe is dislocated. The pain in that foot goes up my leg. I also noticed a line of small round brown colored spots in two places- my ankle and above the arch on the inside of my foot - 4 or 5 in each row about 1/2" apart. My foot swells even when I am not walking or standing. Could it be that my pins are working their way out or worse? My doctor said we will deal with it after my other problem of diverticulitis I am dealing with. He suggested it might just be neuropathy. I don't think I can handle the pain and I am a very active person. I return to work in 4 weeks. What do you think? Any input is greatly appreciated. Thank you and have a great day. Evelyn Proudfoot

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you follow-up with your doctor as an x-ray will determine if your hardware is loosening. As for possible neuropathy symptoms, there are many treatments available that you can discuss with your doctor as well.



  • Question
  • March 15, 2013

Dear Drs., I recently broke my left ankle and wore an othoboot for 7 weeks. I removed the boot a couple of weeks ago. My ankle is doing well but I have so much pain in the second toe of my left foot. I asked the orthopedic doctor to x-ray and they didn't find any problems. They said it was from wearing the boot and gave me excercises to do. My foot also hurts on the bottom middle part as well as the middle of the top part of the foot. When I wore my tennis shoes it is much quieter but when I wear socks or I am barefoot my toe screams. Any clues? Thanks/Tony

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have a stress fracture of your 2nd metatarsal bone. Stress fracture is a "hairline" fracture of the bone and is not commonly seen an x-ray. I would recommend you return to the orthopedic doctor for re-evaluation. Stress fractures of the foot are treated with immobilization, ice and elevation. In the differential diagnosis, morton's neuroma and capsulitis are possibilities.



  • Question
  • March 5, 2013

I have been feeling sharp pain in the joint of the last two toes on my right foot (the baby toe and the one next to it) When I step on my foot it feels like I am stepping on like a gel pack. But when I feel my foot there is no swelling and no lump. The pain has started radiating up the side of my foot to my ankle. It doesn't hurt when I wear my shoes unless I walk a fair distance. I compulsively sit cross legged when ever I sit down so maybe thought I was squishing my foot with my weight so that may be causing the problem

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a type of neuritis. Anatomically there are 2 nerves in the are you describe, the sural and intermediate dorsal cutaneous. The other possilbilty is a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduced the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. As for the neuritis treatments is anti-inflammatory medications and removing the irritating stimulus, ie cross legged sitting. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • February 27, 2013

I am extremely flat footed. I have custom orthotic inserts for tennis shoes. I had them made because of back issues because flat footed never cause much of issues. About 12 days ago my foot slipped out of shoe and sorta rolled my foot, which I have done many times in the past. Made foot a little sore but nothing that caused me to take any pain medicine. There was no swelling or bruising. Two days went by with little irritation. Third day post injury was a Monday and went to work, work at a desk so not on feet. Wore shoes with less than inch heel. That night had trouble sleeping. Even the weight of my own foot hurt. Blanket hurt if laying on foot. Put pillow under foot tried laying foot on inside, outside, hanging off bed, no matter what was really hurting. Tuesday woke up but pain had decreased slight and didn't hurt to walk on. Same shoes worn but after and hour my big toe into inside of what is supposed to e arched hurt really bad. Took shoes off. Went home on lunch and put on tennis shoes. Again one hour later hurt to bad and took off. Decided I should go have x ray maybe it was hairline fracture. Went to urgent care. Explained to dr what happened and that there was no swelling or bruising just bad pain. Took socks off to let him examine and it was four times normal size and some bruising. X ray negative. Dr said could be gout or could be stress fracture. Ran blood work and then wrapped foot in ace bandage and shoe thing with hard bottom. Blood test negative for gout as well. That Friday night started having intense pulling feeling in big toe, toe feels like it could be snapped in half. After twenty mins straight if that I noticed that my big toe was pulled back much further than rest of toes. Like I mentioned earlier really flat footed but now there is an arch in my foot which is one of the areas the pulling sensation is felt. The I lost control of movement in foot. My big toe will not move at all if I try to bend an small toes won't bend but will twitch about 5 seconds after I attempt to curl. Also small toes move in weird directions when pulling feeling is strong. It was after hours so went to er. Was concern I couldn't move toes. Moving for upward is difficult too. Er did another x ray and basically said see foot dr. Have me Vicodin, muscle relaxers, and 800 mg ibuprofen. Also started wearing inflatable walking cast which made huge difference in getting around. Went to podiatrist yeasterday. Said probably fracture and tendon tightness is from body trying to help protect fracture. Said keep in boot, limit walking, ice, heat Epsom soaking, all of which I have been doing. Said come back in week and if not 50 better he wants MRI.trusted what he said and set appointment. Today during one of strong pulling sensations, it got really really intense and then I felt there was a rubber band in my foot that just snapped into two peices. Pain has increase and nothing seems to help. And my smaller toes keep twitching making pain shoot through foot. Ice didn't help, soaking in warm water with Epsom salt not helping either. What was the snapping feeling after strong pulling sensation? Not sure if I mentioned but tingling sensation pretty constant around big toe to about half way down inside of foot., what is the pulling sensation, what was snapping feeling? And should I wait a week to go back or call tomorrow and be seen sooner??

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would high recommend you call your podiatrist and be re-examined due to worsening of your condition. Agree with MRI as this can examine the soft tissues as well as the bone structures of the foot. The pulling and snapping sensations are called splinting or guarding and our the bodies normal response to a musculoskeletal injury.



  • Question
  • February 19, 2013

On about October 2nd, 2012 I fell down the stairs at my house. They are very steep wooden stairs. I lost my footing and just went down and ended up sliding down on the left side of my body. My left heel/ankle is still very sore. I cannot put any pressure on my heel. If I do it feels as though I am getting poked with pins and needles. If the pressure continues, the pain ngets worse. I have been to the doctor and had x-rays done. My doctor cannot figure out what is wrong with my foot. He thinks I have arthritis, is this even possible? I have no broken bones. Please help, I want to walk again! My doctor has me wearing my shoes all day every day, and wearing a dorsiwedge to sleep in. My foot is also very swollen on the right side of my left heel.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you have an MRI due to your continuing discomfort.



  • Question
  • February 12, 2013

my 28 year old daughter cut her ankle she had 9 stitches outside and 8 inside.stitches have been removedIt has been apx three weeks since it happenened.Wondering why Her toes are curled upward and there is some numbness?

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you follow-up with a foot and ankle specialist as the injury and symptoms you describe indicate that there may be a nerve and /or tendon injury from the laceration of the ankle. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • February 12, 2013

rning, I just came across your website and think this is a wonderful service. God bless you! I don't know if you're still answering people's queries, but some of these were close to what happened to me. I had surgery on my foot a couple of years ago to alleviate pain in the ball of my foot and bunion pain. The orthopaedic surgeon did a bunionectomy and shortened the metartarsal bones in my second and third toes and putting pins in them. Recovery was long and painful and I now have a hammertoe on my second toe after stubbing it about 18 months after the surgery. He wanted to do another surgery, but after getting a second opinion, I opted to leave well-enough alone and, after six to eight months I began to see some improvement and recently was able to buy a pair of low heels and wear more normal shoes for walking. Early yesterday morning I came in contact with the leg of a coffee table when getting up from a sofa in my where I'd been lying down. ( I was at a family weekend home that I spent very little time in and someone had move the coffee table to within 8 inches of the sofa since the last time I was there.) I had socks, but no shoes on. The sharp corner of the large and extremely heavy leg went in between the second and third toes causing immediate pain, but I put my shoes, (Taos clog style shoes), on and kept walking. After an hour or two my toes began to really hurt and I felt discomfort at the base of the toe and junction of the ball of my foot. I began elevating the foot and put a bag of frozen corn on it. I kept it elevated for most of the day and by late afternoon was able to walk with some tolerable discomfort in lace up Timberland hiking boots outside on the grass walking back and forth to my car, with some stair climbing and light housework involved in packing to go home. Then went to the grocery store, and drove the last 5 about 35 miles home, unloaded the car, put away groceries, clothes etc. and made supper. By the time I went upstairs to get ready for bed, my toe was so painful after removing my boot that I elected to go back downstairs to elevate and ice some more. By this time the contact with the small ice gel pack was so painful that I had to remove it and put my foot on the back of the sofa. I slept with my feet elevated and the toe is dark purple underneath and around the sides from the crease up towards the tip. It was throbbing Sunday night and Monday morning. Since then walked around limiting myself to between the den and kitchen and bathroom wearing an old pair of MBT sandals to relieve the pressure on my toes when I walk elevating my feet in when seated. I slept with feet elevated again last night. It has now been a little over 48 hours, and after elevating my foot most of the time it hurts a little, but not as much as it did first night and in the early a.m. yesterday and the bruising remains about the same. The throbbing has not reoccured and it is much less sensitive to touch. Should I get it x-rayed anyway? Thanks so much for this wonderful service.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you have an x-ray to determine if you have a fracture. You can splint the toes together and use a stiff sole shoe as this should help alleviate your pain in addition to the ice you are already using.



  • Question
  • February 12, 2013

rning, I just came across your website and think this is a wonderful service. God bless you! I don't know if you're still answering people's queries, but some of these were close to what happened to me. I had surgery on my foot a couple of years ago to alleviate pain in the ball of my foot and bunion pain. The orthopaedic surgeon did a bunionectomy and shortened the metartarsal bones in my second and third toes and putting pins in them. Recovery was long and painful and I now have a hammertoe on my second toe after stubbing it about 18 months after the surgery. He wanted to do another surgery, but after getting a second opinion, I opted to leave well-enough alone and, after six to eight months I began to see some improvement and recently was able to buy a pair of low heels and wear more normal shoes for walking. Early yesterday morning I came in contact with the leg of a coffee table when getting up from a sofa in my where I'd been lying down. ( I was at a family weekend home that I spent very little time in and someone had move the coffee table to within 8 inches of the sofa since the last time I was there.) I had socks, but no shoes on. The sharp corner of the large and extremely heavy leg went in between the second and third toes causing immediate pain, but I put my shoes, (Taos clog style shoes), on and kept walking. After an hour or two my toes began to really hurt and I felt discomfort at the base of the toe and junction of the ball of my foot. I began elevating the foot and put a bag of frozen corn on it. I kept it elevated for most of the day and by late afternoon was able to walk with some tolerable discomfort in lace up Timberland hiking boots outside on the grass walking back and forth to my car, with some stair climbing and light housework involved in packing to go home. Then went to the grocery store, and drove the last 5 about 35 miles home, unloaded the car, put away groceries, clothes etc. and made supper. By the time I went upstairs to get ready for bed, my toe was so painful after removing my boot that I elected to go back downstairs to elevate and ice some more. By this time the contact with the small ice gel pack was so painful that I had to remove it and put my foot on the back of the sofa. I slept with my feet elevated and the toe is dark purple underneath and around the sides from the crease up towards the tip. It was throbbing Sunday night and Monday morning. Since then walked around limiting myself to between the den and kitchen and bathroom wearing an old pair of MBT sandals to relieve the pressure on my toes when I walk elevating my feet in when seated. I slept with feet elevated again last night. It has now been a little over 48 hours, and after elevating my foot most of the time it hurts a little, but not as much as it did first night and in the early a.m. yesterday and the bruising remains about the same. The throbbing has not reoccured and it is much less sensitive to touch. Should I get it x-rayed anyway? Thanks so much for this wonderful service.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you have an x-ray to determine if you have a fracture. You can splint the toes together and use a stiff sole shoe as this should help alleviate your pain in addition to the ice you are already using.



  • Question
  • February 10, 2013

im a 35yr old male whos never really had any health problems but for couple of years now my feet,ankles & lower legs have on a few occassions swelled to over twice the size and are sometimes so painful i cant walk.they go red/purple also.sometimes its not come on too bad & gone after 3/4 days other times i struggle to stand and walk few steps & its over a week.i think in around 24/30 months this has happened 6/7 times.what could cause this as im fairly healthy,active and not over/under weight?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, there are several causes of bilateral lower extremity swelling, ranging from kidney insufficiency, cardiac insufficiency, lymphedema and varicose veins. I wound recommend you be examined during your fluid retention to work-up the underlying cause.



  • Question
  • February 3, 2013

Hi there. About six weeks ago I felt a sharp pain in my right shin as I got up from a chair (where I had my legs slightly bent under me) that, after rubbing, gradually became less sharp. After a week or so the pain disappeared, but then briefly came back for a few more days about three weeks later, before fading again. It was sharper when raising my foot up towards my knee. However since the original incident, that shin has felt very sensitive (so much so that I often have to move even my trousers from pressing on it). In the last two weeks the calf on that leg has felt odd too, kind of throbbing when I sit down. It feels like it should be swollen, but it's not and almost in the early stages of cramp but never goes all the way. Occasionally I feel the muscle twitching. It isn't getting worse, but it isn't going away either. Being a bit of a worrier, I'm concerned about DVT but have none of the factors that should make this likely (no family history, not overweight, just turned 40, not overly active but not sedentary either). I'd really appreciate some advice if possible. Many thanks, Mark

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would highly recommend you be evaluated by your primary care physician to rule out DVT as this can be deadly. With that being said, you do describe symptoms of neuropathy or a nerve entrapment affecting your lower leg. This can also be evaluated by your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • January 25, 2013

In gym class we were wrestling, and one of the guys flipped me but I couldn't get my arm done to roll and I landed on my thumb. Its been about 3 days and there is some swelling and tenderness and a small bruise starting. Did I just bruise it, or is it something else?

  • Answer

As a podiatrist, we do not treat above the knee. With that said I recommend you be evaluated by your primary care doctor.



  • Question
  • January 21, 2013

I was walking at school like my normal everyday routine, i was wearing slip on shoes and it was really cold and i had no socls on. An hour or so into the day my feet slowly started to swell in patches until fully swollen. They burn and itch. I figured it was just my shoes. That night my hands did the same thing and both my hands and feet were red, itching,burning, and swollen. The next day it started moving up my arms but the redness was more splotches. The next day it covered my legs as well. The next day it moved up to my back and sides.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you have be examined by your primary care physician immediately.



  • Question
  • January 20, 2013

dear doctor, i unknowingly hit myself on the shin..i think there was a bit of beeding..then my foot first from the ankle then right upto the thigh started swelling.i feel pain when i walk or sit but am fine when i lie down..my physician has given me an anibiotic and a cream to dress the wound..is there serious cause for worry

  • Answer

Based on your description, you are being treated appropriately and would follow-up as recommended by your physician.



  • Question
  • January 16, 2013

I took a hit to my calf 6 days ago its a little swollen still and i have a pain in a certain spot only if i touch it or walk and i also now have a bruise on the shin area is that a sign of a blood clot ? Please help

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you developed a hematoma following the trauma to your calf. A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel. Blood that escapes from the blood stream is very irritating and may cause symptoms of inflammation including pain, swelling and redness. he medical term ecchymosis is what most people would recognize as a bruise, or blood that has leaked out of a broken blood vessel under the skin that is caused by an injury. Another word for this injury is a contusion. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 8, 2013

Having short stabbing burst of pain on the outer bottom side of leg close to ankle & foot, not on the ankle or foot. No injury & only last a few seconds. If it lasted longer, could not tolerate the pain. In the same spot each time & it is occurring quite frequent, could it be nerve, vein etc. Thank you

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, it sounds like you have a neuritis/neuropraxia based on the symptoms you describe. Treatment is to identify the nerve involved. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 30, 2012

Within the last 2 hours I've had this throbbing, burning, ache in my right big toe. It's warm to touch and the burning sensation is spreading to other areas of my foot. The nail itself is agony to touch which wasn't previously. There has been no injury or cause. I'm 39 weeks pregnant and requiring iron supplements also my aft liver results were slightly raised last week, due to be checked again tomorrow. I will mention this to the midwive however it appears more of a medical area. Any ideas as to the prognosis? There's no bruising or swelling however my toe nail are looking rather white at the moment but only this one is causing such discomfort. Appropriate pain relief is out of the question HELP !!!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have an ingrown toenail. This usually requires excision of the nail margin. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 29, 2012

Hello my girlfriend woke up today took a shower and noticed some red bumps on the side of her foot and on her wrist so far she has 4 and one growing and she said it hurts what could it be?

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. As for the rash on her foot, this could range from infection, fungus to a dermatitis and may be related to the hand as well. Therefore, I would recommend you follow-up with a Dermatologist.



  • Question
  • December 27, 2012

I do have a chronic pain problem due to Hepatitis C. I broke my wrist last June and fell and got a bone contusion of my foot this November. All of a sudden both areas have swollen and are aching and causing me great pain. My pain specialist just increased my pain med strength but could something else be going on? I don't want to just keep getting stronger pain pills. Why did both swell and cause me pain at the same time now? I do see an Orthopedic Dr. who did knee surgery and a knee replacement. The pain in the foot and ankle is the same leg as the arthroscopy which I think will need a replacement soon

  • Answer

Based on your history and the new onset pain and swelling of the foot and ankle, I would recommend you follow-up with your Orthopedist for an physical examination.



  • Question
  • December 21, 2012

on the front of my right ankle i have had a large black and blue mark which sometimes resembles a large burn, i have not injured myself in any way. sometimes it itches. there is no sign of it getting better i have had this for about a month. i am a 79 year old male. thank you very much for your response

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, you may have varicose veins that at times become engorged and can cause dis coloration of the skin as well as itching. Anatomically there is a muscle belly (Extensor Brevis) in this location you describe that has a dark purple color. . We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 21, 2012

Hello, Started out with pain on the top of the big toe area,but gout was ruled out. I do not have gout. I went to Dr and they gave me a steroid injection. I now have a bruised ring worm looking circle on the upper big toe area top of right foot. One part of the circle comes near the crease of big toe and 2nd toe. Only inside skin. No outside scab or rash. No itch. Only a stinging sensation every now and then. Size of a pennie. Please give me your opinion/advise. Thank you!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, it sounds as though you had a reaction to the steroid injection. I would recommend you follow-up with that physician.



  • Question
  • December 26, 2012

what happens next? I burnt my finger, it turned white, I covered it for 4 days and changed the covering everyday. The blister is now gone, but the tip of my finger is very hard to touch and I have no feeling. Its the same color as the rest of the finger. Will the hardness go away? And will I get the feeling (nubness) back.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • December 20, 2012

Sudden enlarged gland on left side of neck after coughing hard, immediate burning pain. Next day woke up with a lot of fluid swelling in that area. Burning/ tingling On left side of throat and neck, swelling continues to increase each day. This is third day. I have been told I probably have a detached node from my glad as a result of flu last week and coughing hard by my doctor. My questions are: Will I continue to swell and have pain? Will it heal/ reattach? Can it be drained or other tx? Will this set me up for more problems? Will new symptoms possibly appear, just want the swelling and pain to go away. I'm scared, miserable and embarrassed when I go out in public. Please help me to sort all of this out. Thank you !

  • Answer

As a Podiatrist I do not treat issues above the knee. I recommend you be evaluated by an ear, nose and throat specialist.



  • Question
  • December 15, 2012

Six months back I had a left foot injury by hitting a stone near the arch I took X rays and MRI and both are negative. A small area swelling around 10 mm length along the side edge of the foot bottom sole near the arch 5 cm below big toe which gives me constant burning pain, irritation while sitting and walking. Except me the doctors could not see the small swelling. The color is similar to skin color. I always feel some thing is there inside, but the MRI did not show the problem related to that area and the ortho, skin specialist and general physicians could not able to identify the underlying problem. Please let me know what is likely root cause.

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma, neuropraxia, or neuritis. A neuroma is a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes, in your case it is called a Joplin's neuroma. This usually affects the medial side of the hallux (big toe). Although your description states more proximal to the big toe so this could be a neuritis or neuropraxia. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduced the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 18, 2012

My 6 yo daughter has pain just above and just below her left knee. She woke up with this an has to walk on the ball of her foot limping.. What could this be? She had X-ray and radiology stated a possible chip fx on knee cap.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat knee problems. I would recommend you follow-up with an Orthopedist.



  • Question
  • December 13, 2012

lifting t big back tv over head 2 cabnet heard arm pop now swoll an black an blue what 2 do?

  • Answer

As a podiatrist, I do not treat above the knee and would recommend you follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon.



  • Question
  • December 11, 2012

Hello, This is what happened last year i stubbed my middle toe on my foot and it got black and blue. After 3 weeks the color went away but it was still inflated . I went to the doctors and the guy took a sharp piece of wood and cut open the part where the top of your nail comes and and your skin. Nothing happened all i did was bleed. He gave me medicine for the swelling now and then i would use it twice a day, for every 12 hours. Now and then i would not take it but then i ran out and it did nothing. So i iced it and nothing happened so i just ignored it. Still 1 year later it is still swollen, but i can still run on it. Ohh and i run for my school. and i was wondering if you could help me. It is bothering me and i want it to go away. Thanks.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a neglected fracutre of your toe. Without a x-ray diagnosis of a fracture cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 10, 2012

So for the past two weeks I have been having pain on my right foot when pressure is applied, also it feels as if it was getting smaller. Please help? Thanks in advanced!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your foot. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 9, 2012

After sitting for some time, I suddenly have pain in the bones of the outer edges of my feet? Not the heel. What could be the cause of this?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said,you may have inflammation of your of the lateral tendons of the foot. You could also have a stress fracture of the second metatarsal as well as a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 8, 2012

I recently noticed some pain at the top of the arch of my right foot and upon examining it myself I noticed there is a swollen raised red line, thick in appearance, at the top center area of my arch. It is sensitive to even light touch, like nerve pain. In the past I have had problems with plantar fasciitis & tendinitis, but this is different than how those typically present with me. Ive never had a red swollen line before & it is painful to walk on. Just wondering what this could be and if it will go away on its own or if I will need to see my doctor. Would like to avoid a drs visit so would like to know if it could be related to my previously mentioned injuries or if it is something different. Thanks!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, it sounds as though you may have an infection based on the red swollen line. As plantar fascial pain does not involve redness and swelling. Therefore, I would recommend you follow-up with your physician as soon as possible.



  • Question
  • December 7, 2012

pain lump under arch in rt.foot seemed like a fibroma but mri says inclusion cyst. pod. wont do surgery worried about too much scar tissue? said to try to draw it out withsalt water..seriously? I am a teacher on my feet all day. painlevel a 9. internest said it feels fairly shallow ( size of a quarter wuth the inflammation). cryo an option?how can there not be treatment?i almost cut it out myself. I am desperate.

  • Answer

Based on your description, Inclusion cysts can require surgical excision. Attempting to draw it out with saltwater will not work. You may try the cyrosurgery but if this fails surgical excision is usually required. Any type of incision on the bottom of the foot can cause scarring. Since your lesion is so painful, I would recommend you see another podiatrist for a second opinion. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 6, 2012

I got hit in my left middle finger in middle finger pad 20 days back, it was swollen n hurt bit, after few days it was ok, again after few days pain started n it got red n swollen. I thought some thing must have went inside so I tried to remove with neddle bt no use. The. Went to doctor he saw n told its infected but no pus. So did bandage for few days after that pus was visible so he drained it out with by tearing sink with doctor neddle n pressed the pus out it was panning like hell then he bandaged it next day also he did same n applied b- bact oinment, then few days just applied oinment, now it\'s has healed 50% of tht fingers skin has pealed n new sink is sensitive bt at the place of wound its dark purple colour nt bit hard n stiff, no pain bt movement of finger is restricted can\'t move much it\'s very stiff . I asked doc he Said will heal in 2 weak time it\'s just dead blood inside. Is he right I m worried cos of dark purple black colour n can\'t bend finger properly n bit swollen also . So pls help me thank you

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • December 4, 2012

I have had two back surgeries at the L5/S1 lumbar area due to herniation. Lately I have been having wreid cramps on the top of my foot during which my toes pull apart, and curl up or down. Can this be caused by the back injury? My mother has RA and is concerned because she had similar problems with her feet before.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This may be related to your back injury. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400. You may want to follow-up with your back surgeon for an evaluation as well.



  • Question
  • November 28, 2012

okay imagin that you see a blue bouncy ball. you run at the ball to kick it as hard as you can, but as soon as you kick it you realize that it wasnt a bouncy ball at all it is a bowlling ball. thats what i have done. i kicked it with the ball of my foot and it imediately swelled up the ball joint on my big toe. it has now been a year and my big toe is cocked inwards and the joint is bulged out to the side. it does hurt if i walk for long periods and just doesnt look or feel right. i have moved it around and pulled it all that hapens is cracking sounds and it is painfull. i can tell its in the ball joint my toe itself doesnt hurt. i cant afford a doctor and i dnt kno what to do. ps. i also cant bend it back as far as normal.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, this sounds like you have traumatic injury that caused Hallux Valgus. This deformity of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint which causes subluxation of the joint over time. You most likely have some artritis associated with the injury as well. Conservative treatment options include use of a rigid shank shoe, orthotics, ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you can tolerate them. If you fail to have relief with these treatments surgical intervention may be warranted. I would recommend an evaluation with an x-ray to determine the severity of the arthritis as delayed treatment decreases the options available. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 27, 2012

About a week ago, I went jogging, and I wanted to run farther than my normal 3-5 miles. At about 6 miles, my foot started to hurt, but I assumed that it was from my new shoes that had not been broken in. I ran another 1.5 miles after that. I do not have any swelling or bruising, so I'm not sure if it is serious. When I walk, my left foot pops when my toes are leaving the ground. If I put pressure on the bottom/left side of my foot by slightly rolling it outward, there is a sharp pain. I found that wearing an ankle brace causes a continuous dull pain on the left side of my foot. I also noticed while at work today that I stood half way on a foam mat and the other half on the carpet; with the increased pressure on the middle of my foot, the pain was higher than it ever was before. It does not typically hurt to stand. Walking after resting doesn't bother me, but once I get to the end of the hallway at work, I begin to notice the pain again. When I try to find the exact spot that hurts by applying pressure with my fingers, I cannot pinpoint it. I won't have insurance for another month, so I'm wondering if you think that this is something that I need to get looked at right away or if I can hold out for another month.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your peroneal tendons at the level of the cuboid bone and fifth metatarsal base. You could also have a stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. It is always optimal to initiate treatment as soon as possible. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 29, 2012

I am 49 years, diabetic since 1997,on insulin. 20 days back I hurt my left leg 4th finguer, made X-ray it show there is facture. Doc.gave me painkiller. The finguer has swelling. what can I do to get it healed quick

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 27, 2012

Had small bite on finger this morning almost like a ant bite,popped the puss pocket and went to work. It was sore all day came home cleaned it and pushed on it again before putting antibocatics on it and bandaid now top of hand is swollen up to thumb and down to knuckle and is very sore.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 27, 2012

my 4 year old grandson jumped off the steps onto hardwood floor then complained of bad pain in arch of foot.There was no swelling or bruising at that time.The next day he couldnt hardly walk on it and there was bruising on the top of his foot so we took him for x-rays and it didnt show any breaks or fractures. should i take him for an MRI or do you have any ideas on what he could have done to it? thank you Janell (GRANNY)

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. Your grandson most likely has a bad contusion (soft tissue injury) that should heal with time (21 days). Treatment includes ice, protective shoe gear (cast boot), rest, children's Motrin if he can take it and gentle compression. An MRI would only be indicated if he was not improving with these treatments. We would be happy to see him in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 27, 2012

Hi, The outside of my left foot has had severe pain to bear weight or have anything press on the outer left side. This pain goes from the ankle to the pinky toe with the pain more severe near the toe. It hurts constantly. This started in April and I hoped it would go away. I got it checked in August and was put in a walking cast and it was diagnosed as perineal tendonitis. There is also severe popping and cracking in my ankle with pain as well. I had X-Rays that showed nothing and an MRI that said unremarkable left foot. I don't know what else to do and my podiatrist has given up. I am currently seeing a chiropractor for foot adjustments but those are so painful I don't really want to go back. I was in the boot for two months and the pain and popping just got worse not better. Any suggestions or thoughts on the subject would be appreciated. Thank you.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, any popping and cracking sensation can range from tendons moving around a bony protrusion as well as loose bodies around a joint to subluxation of a joint or tendon. Because you describe peroneal tendonitis, there is common issue with subluxation of the tendon around the ankle joint. This should be pick-up on an MRI. I wound recommend you follow-up with you podiatrist and have the MRI repeated.



  • Question
  • November 26, 2012

hi,i have a line of sharp pain on my left foot across where my menestral bone would be (if thats what you call it) and i can barely bend my foot or walk wen im moveing around is it broken?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a stress fracture of your metatarsal. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 26, 2012

hi, my 27 weeks old baby when standing stands well on her right foot and on her toes on her left foot. however, if she places her left foot well on a surface, she bends her knee. I want to know if its alright.

  • Answer

I would recommend you see your pediatrician for an evaluation.



  • Question
  • November 25, 2012

VesI broke two toes last week from a crush injury. The first few days went by and I wasn't feeling much pain. As of the last couple of days, I have been feeling an intense burning sensation in those two toes. It comes in waves and is very uncomfortable. I don't have any insurance, and so I was hoping to see if this is normal due to my nerves trying fix themselves? Thank you for your help.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, crush injuries cause soft tissue damage that results in a lot of swelling. With extreme amounts of swelling in toes can cause a compartment syndrome that is a limb threatening condition. For this reason, I would highly recommend you follow-up with a local physician or your local ER.



  • Question
  • November 25, 2012

I felt on my left buttock hitting the concrete from a height of six feet while standing on a ladder my left buttock it hurt for a couple days. six months later I felt again hitting the same spot while playing basketball, this time my left buttock, the left side of my lower back, all the way from my hip to my big toe had a burning sensation the middle part of the left side of my back was swollen I couldn't move my left toe and I still cannot move it, it has been a little more than a year the burning sensation on the left side of my leg all the way down to my big toe occasionally comes, it goes away if I bent my knee and quickly straighten it, it cracks on the inside lower part of the leg. What could I possibly have?

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you follow-up with orthopedic surgeon for an evaluation of your lower back and knee.



  • Question
  • November 22, 2012

I have a hard bone like lump on the top of my foot that looks like a saddle bone deformity but it's bruised and makes my whole foot hurt. Should I go to the emergency room? I just moved from florida to north carolina and I don't know any podiatrsts here and I don't know what to do.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a high arched foot that creates a peak on at your mid-foot that can cause irritation of a dorsal nerve in a shoe that fits tight in this area, such as a slip on shoe. Self treatment for this condition is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. We would be happy to see you for this if you continue to have problems, our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 23, 2012

For the last three weeks the outside of my left foot has been hurting. It hurts from about three inches below the base of my little toe to just before my heel. It hurts all the time but is worse if I wear any kind of shoes or even slippers. It doesn't seem to matter if I am standing, sitting or lying down. It looks normal and there isn't any redness. Can you tell me what it might be? Thank you.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your peroneal tendons. These tendon are located on the lateral aspect of your foot and ankle and are responsible for everting your foot and stabilizing your first metatarsal on the ground. You could also have a stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal as well. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 23, 2012

I recently have had what feels like a knot about the size of a quarter a little to the left and on top of the middle of my left foot. It is just on the other side of the arch of my foot. I have really flat feet, but just a tiny bit of an arch. I stand for long periods of time on hard concrete and this knot comes and goes. I has reappeared again, but this time more painful, enough to make it extremely hard to walk. I have tried elevating it in the afternoons when I get home and I have tried to massage it, but nothing seems to make it better, just worse. I am not diabetic and I do not have high blood pressure. I don't know exactly what it is and how to deal with it, can you help narrow down the search so I can try to take care of it myself and be able to walk?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a inflammation of a tendon, ligament or joint in the area you describe as this can cause a feeling of a knot. Treatment includes ice, anti-inflammtory medications if you tolerate them and alteration of shoe gear. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 25, 2012

I have thos sharp pain at the outter side of my left feet. It doesn't really pain me but when I press it a little it does and also sometimes when I wake from sleep in the morNing,, I feel pains at my heels as I walk. Pls what could be the cause?

  • Answer

There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. As for the pain on the outside of your foot, this may be inflammation of a tendon, ligament or capsulitis. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 23, 2012

Fell over on left hand on Sunday, index finger and by the joint very painful and swollen, went to A&E on Monday, had xrays just showed bruising, since then its been painful and today its swollen and really painful again, wondering what l shoud do

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 25, 2012

I woke up this morning with the entire back of my torso, buttocks , back of arms and back of legs bruised black.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with your primary care doctor.



  • Question
  • November 26, 2012

Hi im 40yrs old lastnite i found a lump in my left brest im very tiny waer a size 28 bra so i noticed straight away and it is very painfull please help.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a general surgeon.



  • Question
  • November 26, 2012

I fell on some bricks and landed on my left knee and left hand and hurt my back will this fall also cause numbness in my left hand it has been a year now still having pain in my left leg and back recently my left hand has started to become numb when I sleep the numbeness is there when I wake up this is so painful thank you

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a orthopedist.



  • Question
  • November 23, 2012

Fell on left hand on Sunday,my index finger finger and by the joint was very painful and swollen, went to A & E on Monday had xray but showed only bruising,its still very painful and swollen again, wondering what l should do

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 20, 2012

My husband have from about seven years intense pain in both leg peroneus longus muscle are. side part of both leg. when i rub his leg that area he feel good. we been to many doctors but nothing fix it. I am really worried and want him to feel normal. what is wrong?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There can be several causes of peroneal tendon discomfort from chronic inflammation, foot and ankle instability, tarsal coalition, nerve entrapment, referred pain and other less common causes. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 20, 2012

I have a dance concert next week and I was dancing in my house when I fell because I landed on a twisted my foot. It hurts on the top of my foot right in front of my arch. what did I do to my foot.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may injured a ligament, tendon, or bone. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 20, 2012

Afew years ago I was in a car accident, I crushed my ankle-I had two screws with a bar attachment on that leg--within the past few months I been suffering with a swollen and now the place where the screws were--my leg is swelling--I dont have insurance to go to a doctor--what can i do at home?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. Lower leg swelling can be caused by several etiologies. Trauma is one as well as venous insufficiency, lymphedema, inflammation and blood clots. For treatment the underlying cause needs to be identified and with a blood clot this can be life threatening. For this reason, I would recommend you be evaluated by a physician.



  • Question
  • November 20, 2012

I have had pain at the top of my second toe for about 3 days now. This morning it is even more painful and it is red and a little swollen at the base of the toe. And also the ball of my foot is very painful. That just started this morning also. I have also have some pretty severe pain in my left shoulder that has been going on for about 6 weeks. I have also felt feverish for the last couple of days.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. As you are having shoulder pain and foot pain with fever, I would highly recommend you be evaluated at your local urgent care center.



  • Question
  • November 19, 2012

Hi, I rolled my right ankle in the beginning of July while taking my martial arts class. I didn't hear a pop or anything but it hurt more than any sprained ankle I've had and I've played a lot of sports. I didn't stay off of it like I should've though it was incredibly painful to walk. I couldn't walk normal either. I never saw a doctor about it. Now, 5 months later, I still can't sit cross legged (indian style), and it hurts if I do too much on it. I'm wondering if it didn't heal right and that's why I have these problems. I've never had any sprained ankle that didn't eventually heal. Could there be something that I can do with treatment to get it back to normal? Thank you.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, based on your symptoms you should definitely have a physical examination as untreated ankle sprains can cause ankle instability in the future and are also associated with cartilage damage (osteochondral lesions) of the talus. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 19, 2012

I recently was sitting Indian style and my friend jumped on top of me and my foot basically felt like it bent in half and I heard it crack and now the side of it is bruised and hurts when any pressure is applied to my foot. I cant even separate my toes (mainly my pinky toe and the two next it from my big toe) it hurts like crazy I cant even sleep. What in the world did I do???

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a fracture or have torn a ligament or tendon. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 18, 2012

iv had a lump on my shin for months its not painfull but throbs and creates tinglein an numbness to the foot

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said this mass may be irritating the sensory nerves that innervate the foot causing tingling and numbness. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 18, 2012

I get sudden intense pain when my foot hits something. Difficult to describe. It is more on the outer sides of the big toe and little toe. Sometimes on top near the toes. I do not wear heels, am flat footed, wear comfortable shoes but the frequent pains are making me wonder if I am developing a problem. I had uterus cancer, now in remission. Could this be a symptom of bone cancer? What could this be?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, these symptoms are most likely associated with peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. This may be related to your uterine cancer as several treatments for cancer can cause peripheral neuropathy. I would recommend that you discuss this with your physician as there are several treatment options for peripheral neuropathy. Ultimately many specialists are often involved in the treatment of these problems.



  • Question
  • November 18, 2012

Hi I sprained my right foot almost 3weeks ago I still can't walk without pain, had it x-rayed on the day, they said ligament damage, the last 5 days I have had swollen toes, itchy/burning toes on that foot, there are welts all over my toes and my toes throb and are reddish. If i touch them they hurt. My ankle is still quite swollen. And I still have bruising all around my foot. I don't have this anywhere else

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, after an ankle sprain there is swelling and bruising that occurs in the first 3-4 days. With gravity the swelling can affect the foot. Sometimes you can develop cellulitis (skin infection) from the retained fluid that requires treatment with antibiotics. I would recommend you see your physician immediately for an evaluation.



  • Question
  • November 16, 2012

I have pain at the base of second toe on my left foot, I know I do not have gout (based on recent medical tests). the pain comes and goes. I find when I stretch my calf the pain goes away. Massage takes (pressure point)and accupuncture takes the pain away for aseveral days at a time but it then returns. what is cause? I've heard boswellia seratta migh help with inflamation. Thank you very much Grace

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your second metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a stress fracture of the second metatarsal. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. As for boswellia seratta helping with inflammation, I am not familiar with that. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 15, 2012

my husband has been walking on the inside of his ankles for the last three years just the other day a dr. finally seen it before they all(drs.) said it was his knees,back he had braces for his ankles but they didnt fit he had the shoe incerts and noyhing has worked

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. Several deformities can cause pronation of the foot and ankle (walking on the inside). This can be related to the hips and knees and would recommend you be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon.



  • Question
  • November 15, 2012

I just discovered two bumps one on each feet at the side of my feet located 1 inch from the arch. They do not hurt, I do not know how long they have been there. I have damage nerves on my feet, I am on Neurotin and Tramadol. I had three epidurral inj and 1 facet and 1 Lumbar RF. What could this be? It is hard for me to find the right shoes since I need support even with insert I can only buy from a Co name FitFlop since their clog, boots has support. I just brought a clog I do not know if it cause by that. Please advise.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. Bumps on the feet can be from different etiologies ranging from soft tissue masses to boney prominence to inflammation. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 15, 2012

I broke my cuboid and navicular bone in july and was in a boot 3 weeks.I was then cleared to go to work witj no followups. Ever since then I habe a popping on the outside of my foot that causes a lot of pain. I am unable to exercise as I normally do and I am unable to bend my foot certain ways without pain! Not sure wbat this means or what I need to dk

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have dislocating peroneal tendons. This may be related to your fracture injury. I would recommend you follow-up with the physician that treated your fractures.



  • Question
  • November 14, 2012

I have OA in my knee and I was wondering why it hurts when I am standing and walking but not when I am sitting down with my leg up? Thank you Donna

  • Answer

As podiatrists we do not treat the knee. I would recommend you see a orthopedist or rheumatologist about your knee.



  • Question
  • November 14, 2012

my palm is burnt severely because of hot wax and lesions are formed painful can i use ice tel now

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 14, 2012

have a bone spur and a fracture on the side of my big toe and It has been hurting for a really long time and I was wondering should I be wearing a walking boot ?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You need to be evaluated to determine if the fracture is healed. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 13, 2012

Hello, I had a heel pain plantar wart for a long time and I had some cortisone injections. It was fine for aperiod of 2 years. The other morning I got out of bed and when I bent my toes forward I got this extremly sharp cutting feeling in my left big toe and I still get it every time I tilt my foot pointing forward./ The pain feels like my toe is being cut. when I immediately move my foot the pain stops immediaitely. What could this possibly be? Thank You in advance!! Wendy

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have an impingement of the sensory nerve that innervates your left great toe. An impingement meaning as you bend your ankle forward you are compressing the nerve. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 13, 2012

Hi, About 1 year ago I slipped in the shower and banged my right foot against the shower wall. I knew I broke my middle toe and immediately went to the ER. It healed crooked and and cannot be bent. Since then, I get intense throbbing at the base of my middle toe connecting to the ball of my foot. It literally starts if I'm on my feet for 2 hours or more (no matter what kind of shoes I wear), even barefooted. It feels like a burning and tingling/throbbing sensation and it becomes very difficult to walk. I find myself having to lean my weight on my left foot to take pressure off of my right foot/toes. The pain is mainly at the base of the middle toe and the ball of my foot and has recently escalated to the top of my foot(still at the base of the toe). Please advise. Thank you for your assistance.

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This may be related to the trauma you sustained from your toe fracture causing alignment issue at the metatral phalangeal joint. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 13, 2012

Hello, I stepped on a nail yesterday at work. It went through my boot but didn't break skin or draw blood. My foot is swollen and hurts, especially to walk on. Should I be concerned? What are some home remedies if any? Please advise.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you be evaluated by a physician. Although you saw no entry point, there still may have been a break in the skin. With puncture wounds there is also a contusion component that will cause soreness. The concern with all puncture wounds is a retained foreign body with infection. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 13, 2012

When I touch the hair on my toe there is a sharp pain in my toe. What's goin on?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, these symptoms could be associated with peripheral neuropathy and/or nerve entrapment. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, and burning of the lower extremities. There are several causes of peripheral neuropathy including diabetes, lower back problems, poor circulation and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment involves identifying the underlying pathology. Once this is identified a treatment plan can be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 13, 2012

I severly cut my thumb on a mandolin today. If you know what those are you can imagine the damage done. 1/4 in length and height and depth. A u shaped wound. Applied pressure until I could get to a faucet. Rinsed well with cold water to clean and help slow the bleeding. After rinsing it didn't bleed anymore. I wrapped it in clean bandage with slight pressure. Nothing like after I cut it. I google things to see if stitches were needed and decided not to go. No Heath insurance or money to pay for visit and meds. I have had some extreme lacerations worth more concern but now I'm concerned that I haven't felt any pain like I have others. I have feeling and even bumped it but only a Amal amount of pain followed where other cuts continuously aggravated me. Any ideas? Can send pic if needed.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee. I recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 12, 2012

i have pain in both feet,swollen outside and inside ankles and swollen heels also on both inside of my feet i have swollen lumps sticking out . can u tell me what this could be?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, it sounds as though you have lower extremity fluid retention that can be caused by venous insufficency to lymphedema. As for the swollen lumps, these are most likely piezogenic papules that are painful or asymptomatic papules of the feet that result from herniation of fat through the dermis. They are common, nonhereditary, and usually are not the result of an inherent connective tissue defect. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400. Piezogenic papules are painful or asymptomatic papules of the feet and wrists that result from herniation of fat through the dermis. They are common, nonhereditary, and usually are not the result of an inherent connective tissue defect.



  • Question
  • November 12, 2012

I have a shooting pain in the side of my left foot which is very painful it dosent happen very often though , while the pain is happening a lump appears in the area of pain, after the pain stops it goes, I am a 16 year old male

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said there are several causes of "lumps" on the foot ranging from benign lesions such as a ganglion cyst (benign fluid filled mass) to tendonitis associated with a dislocation of a tendon or tendons. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 12, 2012

I am a 16 year old male. Twice to three times in the last month I have had a shooting pain in the side of my left foot which is very painful , the pain lasts for about 20 seconds, while the pain is happening a lump appears in the side of my left foot , when the pain stops the lump goes away ?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said there are several causes of "lumps" on the foot ranging from benign lesions such as a ganglion cyst (benign fluid filled mass) to tendonitis associated with a dislocation of a tendon or tendons. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 12, 2012

my left foot flaps along when i walk and i have trouble lifting the foot and cannot walk on my heels but only on my left foot. What miight cause this problem

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds like you have drop foot. Foot drop is the dropping of the forefoot due to weakness, damage to the peroneal nerve or paralysis of the muscles in the anterior portion of the lower leg. It is usually a symptom of a greater problem, not a disease in itself. It is characterized by the inability or difficulty in moving the ankle and toes upward (dorsiflexion). The severity in foot drop can range from a temporary to permanent condition, depending on the extent of muscle weakness or paralysis. It can occur unilaterally or bilaterally. In walking, while stepping forward, the knees are slightly bent so the front of the foot can be lifted higher than usual to prevent the foot from dragging along the ground. Foot drop can be caused by nerve damage alone. However, it is also caused by muscle or spinal nerve trauma, abnormal anatomy, toxins or disease. Diseases that can cause foot drop include stroke, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease), muscular dystrophy, Charcot Marie Tooth disease, and multiple sclerosis. I would recommend you be examined by a physician to find the underlying cause.



  • Question
  • November 11, 2012

I have knots on the tendon of the very bottom of my feet. They are very painful to the touch and makes it hard to walk, is there anything i can do for this? Can i make them go away?

  • Answer

Unfortunately based on your description one cannot determine a differential diagnosis without a physical examination. Generally speaking masses on the bottom of the foot can range from plantar fibromas to ganglion cysts. The lesions are nodular and feel like a lump on the bottom of the foot. They can become symptomatic when they are irritated from weight bearing. There are many other masses that could present like this but they are far less common. Self treatment for either of these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. Seldom we expect to see these masses to spontaneously resolve. Professional evaluation is recommended. Surgical excision is often required for resolution when these masses are painful. Definitive diagnosis can only be made by biopsy of the mass. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 11, 2012

Palm of left hand has had a reoccurring hot burning swollen spot the size of a quarter to the right of my thumb. Feels tight from swelling and hurts to the touch. Tingles and burns for 3-4 days then goes away & comes back - no time frame pattern. Cold water makes it worse as do all topical ointments. I\\\'ve seen my GP and she asked if I burned myself and didn\\\'t remember. Obviously I was highly insulted as it is reoccurring and clearly under the the skin - not a topical burn.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist we do not treat alignments above the knee.



  • Question
  • November 10, 2012

Stepped on a nail punctered the bottom of my foot. Right on the ball area. I didn't go to doctor right away it did get infected. I did get an antibiotic. This was a couple months ago. Now I have a hard callus and it is painful when pressure is applied or even when I walk. What can I do

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a retained foreign body vs and inclusion cyst. If this is a retained foreign body reaction then removal is needed. If this is a inclusion cyst the lesion can be debrided and a blistering agent can be applied to assist in removal of the lesion. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 10, 2012

After I used a new pair of boots im feeling pain at my outside left foot. What to do?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have irritated the lateral tendons of your foot from the new pair of shoes. Treatment includes ice, alteration of shoe gear and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 9, 2012

i'm a 49 yr old male. my feet hurt most of the time. i can not bend my toes. the pain usually is 3 or 4 but some times can reach a 6,7,8 or even a 9. the pain is worse after walking or standing for 30 minutes to one hour and effects my leg from the knee down. and i'm starting to feel it in my left foot and leg now. any thoughts??? thank you!

  • Answer

Based on your description, this sounds like you have Hallux Limitus, although these symptoms can be associated with other pathologies such as trigger toe. This deformity of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint which over time causes a decreased ROM of the joint from deposition of calcium around the joint and degeneration of the cartilage in that joint. Conservative treatment options include use of a rigid shank shoe, orthotics, ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you can tolerate them. If you fail to have relief with these treatments surgical intervention may be warranted. I would recommend an evaluation with an x-ray to determine the severity of the arthritis as delayed treatment decreases the options available. As for your lesser toe joints you may have hammer toes. These are contracture or bending of the toe joints at the middle or end joint. This is an genetic deformity which progresses with age. It is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 9, 2012

I was in a car wreck which rolled and flipped. I remember my leg having a lot of pressure on it. When I came to I pulled my leg out to get to my daughter. Had it X-rayed and nothing was broke or fractured. They wanted to do a cat-scan but I declined it because I'm 7 months pregnant. It was bruised really bad on the inner side of my right leg. It's been two weeks and most of the bruising has gone but the issue is my leg is staying swollen down to my foot which turns blue/purplish. I do have a knot on the inside my leg by my knee. I can't hardly pick up or turn my leg. And definitely can't bend it or bring it backwards. Any ideas what it can be?

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you have a hematoma associated with the trauma you sustained. This can cause increased pressure in the leg (compartment syndrome) that is limb threatening. I would highly recommend you follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon to be evaluated immediately.



  • Question
  • November 8, 2012

Hello. About a week and a half ago I was running to my car because I was late for work, and stubbed my toe on a big decorative rock outside of my gate. It hurt really bad and took me a minute to gather myself and get to my car. A few days ago I noticed a large purple bump, almost like a bubble, on the front (past my toenail but not on the bottom of my toe) of my big toe (right where I stubbed it before.) It isn't painful but I get the urge to squeeze it so it will go away. I am a girl and it is a very ugly thing to have on my foot! What could it be and how can I get rid of it?

  • Answer

Based on your description, with the trauma you must likely have developed a hematoma, a collection of blood under the skin. These are generally absorbed by the body but sometimes require surgical drainage. You could possibly have a fracture of your big toe as well. I would recommend you have an examination and x-rays. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 8, 2012

I'm a 48 yo female. I have been remodeling my home, requiring me to go up and down ladders, stretch and put strain on my feet (as well as every other muscle in my body). I've done a lot of reaching standing on my tippy toes. Sometimes I wore shoes, sometimes I didn't. My right foot is killing me. Specifically the outer edge, opposite of the arch. While walking, I can put weight on it with no problem, but as I lift up I experience a great deal of pain. While sitting I rotate my ankle and the foot only hurts when I pull my toes towards me and turn the foot inward. (Big toe up, baby toe down). What did I do? And what do I do to heal it? What is the recovery time? HELP!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you most likely have peroneas brevis tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon insertion). You could also have a stress fracture of the 5th metatarsal as well. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Usually takes 10-20 days for tendonitis to resolve, although sometimes injections or stronger anti-inflammatory medications are required. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 7, 2012

My daughter gets a very strange pain in her left foot. Once in a while her foot will cramp up and she can't move her toes. She gets two bumps on the side of her foot while this is happening and once it stops they dissappear.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I am unable to provide you with a differential diagnosis. I would recommend she be evaluated if this continues to happen.



  • Question
  • November 7, 2012

A few years ago I was playing football when I went over on my ankle and damaged the ligaments. X-rays confirmed it wasn't broken but the swelling remained for well over 6 months. Since then every month or so I have been plagued with ankle trouble and random bursts of pain normally accompanied by a very swollen vein that runs across the ankle. It normally lasts around 3-4 days before settling again and nothing from swimming to strengthening the ankle would stop it. The last time it happened I applied strong pressure to the vein cutting off the blood flow for a seconds. I repeated this and less than an hour later the pain was gone and the swelling noticeably smaller. I was wondering if this could be anything serious like a clot or a pool that I need to worry about? Thanks

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you have an impingement of your ankle. I would recommend you have an evaluation and possibly an MRI. Blood colts present with swelling increased warmth, redness and pain. They can be life threatening in the lower extremity and require a venous duplex for diagnosis.



  • Question
  • November 7, 2012

I was playing football and went in for a tackle, ad I stretched I felt something like snap under my back thigh muscle. I cudnt get up . Two day later I can bend may leg but hurts when I do and there's abit of bruising on back of my leg where the joint is. What do do think I've done

  • Answer

As a podiatrist I do not treat above the knee. I would recommend you be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon.



  • Question
  • November 5, 2012

hi i was playing in soccer tournament about a month ago and i went on the side of my foot and i felt a lot of pain in the outside of the foot and felt something crack. it was swollen and black and blue the rest of the tournament but i still played on it. it is still swollen but doesnt hurt as bad but i cant stand on it correctly, is it a metatarsal injury? did i break something?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of the tendon or joint of that anatomical area vs a stress fracture of the metatarsal bone vs a ligament or tendon rupture. With your athletic activity, I would recommend you be evaluated. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 5, 2012

I am getting a sharp shooting pain, more and more frequently, that seems to start from the inside ankle bone, the medial malleolus and goes upward a few inches. It doesn't last long but it is so bad that I have to immediately take the weight off it. It only happens when I walk/put weight on it

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are consistent with peripheral neuropathy and/or nerve entrapment. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, and burning of the lower extremities. There are several causes of peripheral neuropathy including diabetes, lower back problems, poor circulation and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that is caused by compression of the tibial nerve or its associated branches as the nerve passes underneath the flexor retinaculum at the level of the ankle or distally. Treatment involves identifying the underlying pathology. Once this is identified a treatment plan can be made.



  • Question
  • November 5, 2012

My legs and feet are tender to touch the sheet hurt.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • November 4, 2012

I have two lumps between my 2nd toe & 3rd they when i put my shoes or boots on . How do I get rid of them ? They feel like knots

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • November 4, 2012

hi i was playing in soccer tournament about a month ago and i went on the side of my foot and i felt a lot of pain in the outside of the foot and felt something crack. it was swollen and black and blue the rest of the tournament but i still played on it. it is still swollen but doesnt hurt as bad but i cant stand on it correctly, is it a metatarsal injury? did i break something?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of the tendon or joint of that anatomical area vs a stress fracture of the metatarsal bone vs a ligament or tendon rupture. With your athletic activity, I would recommend you be evaluated. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 4, 2012

When I walk barefoot it feels like there is a flap of skin on the ball of my right foot. When it first happened I thought I must have had a cut or blister or something but when I looked there was nothing there at all. This has been going on for months and it's driving me a bit crazy. What could this be?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 4, 2012

I AM 45 YEARS OLD AND I RECENTLY NOTICED A HARD LUMP ON MY LEFT FOOT 1 INCH AWAY FROM MY ANKLE AND IT IS NOT PAINFUL.IT DOESNT HURT EVEN IF I WEAR TIGHT FOOTWEAR. WHAT COULD IT BE??

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass but there are several other causes of soft tissue masses. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 3, 2012

I am have been feeling numbness, burning and extreme pain in the last two toes on my foot when trying to ride my bike or spin for about a month. For the last two weeks, I have developed the sensation of walking on a golf ball on the ball of the foot in that same spot. The more I walk on the foot the more uncomfortable it gets. After competing in triathlons and taking a break (knee surgery), I am super frustrated and unsure of who to see. I want deperately to work out again! I teach 4th grade and coach middle school cross country and track teams. Any ideas how to get back up to speed ASAP! Thank you!

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400. If you are not in our area I would recommend you see a podiatrist.



  • Question
  • November 3, 2012

my foot is really sore and it throbs and it burns and is numb i can hardly walk on it its been like this for 2 weeks i didnt do anything to it what could be wrong with it it gets worse everyday

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There are several causes of your symptoms ranging from inflammation to infection. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 2, 2012

Hi, I had a cut on the top middle of my right foot and I didn't think much of it but then it began to swell and ache and so I tore off the scab and applied fusidic acid and it quickly improved, I thought that was that. But I began to get a growing arthritic ache in the arch, by the heal, under the foot and I suddenly got a roaring fever. I went to the doctor and he was confused because the skin symptoms had abated but he treated me for cellulitis with antibiotics. All was well but the ache remained, annoying but tolerable, waxing and waning in discomfort. On one particular wax I soaked in warm water and massaged it thoroughly and the next day I had another fever. Since then, a week ago, I've had a fever every other day, in between feeling fine. Remarkably stark extremes. And there has been improvement in my foot pain. My question is: what the h*ll is going on? Do I have a dormant pathogen? And also, is there a prominent lymph node there where the heal meets the arch? Can I get antibiotics injected directly into my foot? Is his a permanent condition or can I massage it out and bite the bullet with fevers? Thanks a million for being so cool as to answer questions.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you follow-up with a infectious disease doctor.



  • Question
  • November 2, 2012

I woke up during the night with a pain in my 3rd toe, right foot , the night before last. I thought it might be arthritis ( not sue what that should feel like though) . I do see a bluish lump on the underside that is painful to the touch. I can feel pain even when not walking. Toe does appear slightly swollen. Any suggestions?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. This presentation can range from infection to inflammation from trauma to arthritis. Based on this range of diagnosis, I would recommend you be evaluated. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 2, 2012

I cannot LIFT my Great toe after I sustained an injury 9 months ago. I Broke my right lower tib & fib 2" above my ankle, had reconstructive surgery, 2 plates x 16 screws installed. The Dr. Said that when they installed the plate that runs under my ankle may have "ruptured" a tendon or a nerve. I had full ROM of it before surgery, after i can only curl / bend t downwardI'm very athletic and not having this movement in my toe is restricting the feeling I have in my foot, and is also quite painful. My Dr suggested possibly fusing my toe, I don't know if this is even an option being that I skate and snowboard ?

  • Answer

Based on your description, not being able to lift your great toe can be caused by a tendon rupture, tendon impingement, or nerve damage. I would recommend you see your surgeon to be evaluated for the cause and then your treatment options can be discussed.



  • Question
  • November 1, 2012

I have been recently having pain in my both left and right feet. More so in the left feet. The pain is on the outside from my pinky toe to the center of my feel. It is does not hurt when I am standing or walking. However,as a teacher when I cross my legs to sit on the carpet it hurts a lot. Although it is not unbearable, I do not want this pain to develop into a bigger problem. what can I do to treat this problem and make it go away? I have tried stretching, soaking in warm water, and rubbing it.

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as you are compressing you common peroneal nerve when you cross your legs. The nerve is located at the head of your fibula, the bone on the outside of your leg just below your knee. When the nerve is compressed it causes the symptoms you are experiencing. I would recommend you alter the way you sit to avoid putting pressure on this area.



  • Question
  • November 1, 2012

My son runs cross country. Has done for 5 years. Last Monday he experienced sharp pain right foot at the side while running. He has had an x-ray and an MRI. There is no stress fracture. MRI showed fluid in the soft tissue. He has been wearing an air boot which helped. He ran a 3 mile race today after getting clearance and has the pain again. Any suggestions on what he can do? Thank you.

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds like he has a tendonitis based on the MRI findings and his clinical presentation. For an acute tendonitis, treatment involves RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation). The air cast assists with compression/immobilization. I would recommend you have him evaluated for the cause of the tendonitis, for example has he had a change in shoe gear recently, any trauma to the foot or ankle, over training. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 1, 2012

I've had a lump on my leg for the past 7 years, kind of by my shin bone... & it just recently started to hurt. What can it be ? My mother had the same thing and it turned out to be skin cancer, she got it taken out before it reached her bone. Can it be the same thing ?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There are several etiologies that can cause a mass or lump. Based on your mothers history, I would recommend you be evaluated. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 30, 2012

Hi, about 2 weeks ago I stood on a nail in the garden, it didn't go all the way through but it went pretty far into the ball of my foot, I cleaned and dressed it thoroughly. It was really painful the day after but the day after that it was much better and I haven't thought about it since. Until yesterday. I began getting a warm sensation in the same foot, it runs from my big toe along the edge if my foot and lasts for a few seconds, as if someone has poured warm water on it. It happens a few times an hour. It's not painful, or even unpleasent, just odd. Could it be related to the puncture injury? nerve damage perhaps? Many thanks for your help

  • Answer

Based on your description, this is related to your injury. With puncture wounds of the foot with a shoe on there is always concern for retained foreign bodies and infection. Also the tetanus status is to be up to date. I would recommend you be evaluated by a physician. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 29, 2012

Twice in the past two months I have had two episodes when simply standing still I have felt an explosion or snapping-like feeling in my left foot. It first happened on the top portion of left foot and most recently closer to the ankle on the top of the left foot. Immediately following this I have felt a hot fluid sensation and almost immediate swelling. Shortly thereafter I have turned black and blue. In both instances I am not able to draw my foot up towards my leg or walk well on it. I have had x-rays which show no fractures and a recent MRI revealed severe osteoarthritis in 2nd and 3rd tarsometarsal joints due to a very old fracture. There is a peroneus brevis longitudinal split, chronic plantar fascitis. There is no evidence of an anterior tibialis tear. There is also noted probably chronic anterior talofibular ligament tear with a large 10 mm ossicle/dystrophic calcification. I cannot keep having this happen and end up limping in a brace for months on end. What could this be?

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you follow-up with your physician as it sounds like your ankle instability is the cause of your symptoms. This most likely will need to be surgically addressed.



  • Question
  • October 30, 2012

I developed a pain in by foot right where the middle toe joins the foot, I guess you could say it is the ball of the foot at the middle toe area. It hurts to put pressure there. And now I have noticed that my middle toe is larger in diameter than either the 2nd or 4th toe. What's going on? Thanks

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a Stress fracture. Stress fractures are very common in this area of the foot and can be caused by normal walking and standing. trauma is not required. typically there is pain and faint almost imperceptible bruising moderate swelling. Pain is typically worst about 3/4 of an inch from the base of the toe. treatment consists of immobilization and ice /rest & elevation.



  • Question
  • October 28, 2012

I have some black spots on my skin from young (2yrs old ) and they should disappear I know..but I'm 18 now and anytime I get a mosquito bite or an ant's bite it quickly heals and leaves a black spot that takes ages to disappear..after 2-5monthe they are barely viewable..but my problem is that mosquitoes bite me surprisingly often and from day to day I get little blisters and bruises and they all leave a black mark...I can't figure out the cause..im an intensive trainer of track and swimming so I go out often and these black spots keep coming and coming and looks terribly ugly on my foot arms and face..If u can get any suggestions or information on my issue..I will really appreciate it...if u need pictures I can send them over the mail...Thank you

  • Answer

From what you describe I am nearly certain that you have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentations. This is a skin reaction that causes some individuals to have dark skin changes at sites of a resolved inflammatory reaction such as an insect bite. These can be treated by a dermatologist. I am not familiar with any prevention strategies except avoidance of insects in the first place ( DEET remains the most effective insect repellant but others are effective as well) also reducing the inflammatory response when bitten my help but that is just an educated guess ( use of topical hydrocrtisone cream or antihistamines)



  • Question
  • October 29, 2012

about four weeks ago i was treated for a stress fracture on top of my left foot right below the big toe and the toe next to it. Since then i have experienced numbness in my two fingers on each hand (pinky and the one next to it on each hand). My feet feel like they are on fire. It feels like I am getting stuck with pins sometimes in my toes and it also feel like i am getting cramps in the back of my legs. When I went to the Dr they also tested me for gout which I have had a couple of times before but it turned out negative. The Dr put me in a boot when he saw the Xrays. I went back to him because my foot did not feel like it was getting any better so he put me on crutches. My big toe is so sore I can hardly touch it. I have been tested in the last couple of years for neuropothy which turned out normal the reason I said that is my dad had it real bad when he was alive. I know its hereditary. I just think its kinda of strange that the stress fracture has triggered all this. Any ideas thank you Jim Reuter

  • Answer

Sounds like you have been going through quite a bit. I can not come up with any plausible scenario in which a stress fracture could precipitate this complex of symptoms. This points two two different and equally likely situations. # 1 The initial pain on the left foot is not a stress fracture and is related to the other symptoms or #2 The initial pain on the left foot is a stress fracture and is not related to the other symptoms. So lets look at each thing separately first. The area you describe for the initial pain sound like you are describing either sesamoids ( common location for stress fractures) or 1st Metatarsal ( very rare location for stress fracture ) both are common location of gout. You state you were tested for gout and test was negative so I guess we can exclude gout, but I will make one suggestion as gout sounds somewhat likely to me as part of your symptoms. Was the test for gout an aspiration of an affected joint to look for urate crystals ? It is often misunderstood even by healthcare professionals that this is the only true test for gout. Serum uric acid is not reliable for diagnosis of gout as gout can occur with normal uric acid and elevated uric acid will not always lead to gout. In fact during a gout attack Uric acid falls as the uric acid crystallizes in the joint ( ie it is in the joint not in the blood). Next lets look collectively at your burning in the feet /legs and the pain in hands, these symptoms are consistent with neuropathy, and should be worked up as such. In light of the above discussion / limited information, I would think the best place to start is : you have a working diagnosis of neuropathy and unrelated acute gout ( technically intercritical gout). Hope this helps



  • Question
  • October 29, 2012

Yesterday, I jumped up and down and landed on the right side of my right foot. My foot then rolled underneathe me and I instantly felt sharp pain so I sat down. I have not been able to walk or put any weight on my foot since. If I try to set my foot down flat there is immediate sharp pain all the way to the base of my leg. I have been using crutches and elevating and icing it. There is a bruise from my pinky toe to my ankle that is green and dark purple and it is extremely swollen.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a tendon or ligament injury vs a fracture of the 5th metatarsal base or anterior process of the calcaneus. I would recommend you use ice, continue with the crutches and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. I would highly recommend you see a podiatrist as this type of injury can require surgical intervention. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 28, 2012

I ran a 10k yesterday. I felt fine, then about a half an hour later i could bearly walk. The outside of my foot, from the base of the pinky toe to about half the distance to my heal. It only hurts when put pressure on it. Is there some type of muscle that I need to stretch? What would a stress fracture feel like? I find it strange that I felt fine during the race. I dont know if I should wait a couple days (i cant walk without being in pain), or go see a chiropractor or a pediatrist tomorrow.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your peroneus brevis and longus tendons. With a stress fracture you would experience pain with weight bearing. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. I would recommend you follow with a podiatrist. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 27, 2012

I get a painful lump under my big toe, right on the ball of my left foot. After about a day, the swelling goes down and the ball of my foot looks like it has been bruised badly. This appears to be cyclical, with the swelling/bruising happening about once a week. This has happened for about two weeks. Any ideas?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your sesamoids (2 small bones under your first metatarsal phalangeal joint). You could also have a stress fracture of the sesamoids as well. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. I would highly recommend you follow-up with a podiatrist as sesamoid injuries can cause issues with your big toe joint if not treated. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • October 26, 2012

hi so about a week ago my right side a little above my hip and around it started hurting and was tender to touch then it moved to my back and abdomen my side still hurts now two days later i developed one single bump there now i have a few more bumps and they itch and hurt when i scratch them

  • Answer

Thank you for your question, but as a podiatrist I do not treat above the knee and recommend you follow up with your physician.



  • Question
  • October 26, 2012

my son fell at football and hurt his knee over a week ago it is very swollen ,but what concerns me more is when i touched the swollen spot I realized it seems that it is full of fluid or blood or something,feels like jelly,he has an app Monday to see Dr,is he oky untill then or is this an emergency,he had xray week ago no broken bones but worried there is fluid build up,maybe tore acl

  • Answer

Thank you for your question, but as a podiatrist I do not treat knee injuries and recommend you follow up with your physician.



  • Question
  • October 26, 2012

I missed a step when walking on Wednesday. I twisted both ankles, although they are fine today. Instead I have tremendous pain on the outside of my right lower leg. No visible bruising and swelling only after standing on it all day. However it hurts when I walk on it. There was also bruising and swelling under my right foot big toe but that has substantially diminished today. My job requires that I'm on my legs all day ... Any ideas/suggestions?? Thank you!!

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you have an evaluation by a physician as you may have a tendon or ligament tear that could require immobilization. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 25, 2012

For about two years now, I've had this reoccurring pain in the ball of my foot underneath my second toe. The pain usually comes back when I do lots of walking. If I don't put any weight on it, it's fine, but if I apply any pressure, the pain is back. It eventually goes away, but comes back every now and then in the exact same spot. The painful area is about the size of a dime. Very close to the painful area are three small bumps. I don't know if they are related at all. The actual bumps do not hurt when I press on them, so I wasn't sure that the bumps were actually causing the pain. Who knows? That's why I thought I'd ask you. Thank you for your help!

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 24, 2012

I have at least four growths on my left foot that my local podiatrist said he hasn't seen anything like it in his 30 years of practice. The plastic surgeon he referred me to said the exact thing also. These growths are located under my left foot. The larger of the growths is located on the ball of my foot under my big toe. There is another growth in the joint of my big toe as well. I have another one that is growing between my second and third toes and seems to be the most sensitive of all. Although it is not the largest, it is getting bigger with time. The funny thing is that I can tolerate the pain at times, but on certain days while working or exercising, it does hurt a little. Like I said, I have two doctors who have never seen this before, and I am quite interested in getting an answer. Now, the plastic surgeon has referred me to an ankle and foot doctor about two hours away, but I would like some advise to what this might be before driving that distance, and this doctor telling me what the two previous doctors said. BTW, I seem to also have two more growing. One on the outside of my left foot and one on the outside heel as well. Thanks for your help. Keith

  • Answer

Based on your description, soft tissue masses are difficult to diagnose these lesions without a physical examination and biopsy of the lesion. At this point, I would recommend you follow-up with a surgeon who will biopsy on of the lesions so a diagnosis can be made.



  • Question
  • October 23, 2012

I was out watering yard in flip flops and a pain in my big right toe about brought me to my knees. It looked maybe like a small stick had rolled between my shoe and toe, but really unclear to me... At first it was just pain with numbness and a week has passed and although no numbness, it has knot on bottom of big toe (in the bend, next to ball of foot) which causes pain. I cant wear closed toe shoes because of pain and also when I touch it or even close to it, it has a electric shock like feeling throughout entire big toe. Any idea what I may have done and how to fix this pain??? Thanks so much for your help!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a retained foreign body if a part of the stick broke your skin versus a contusion with inflammation. If this is a retained foreign body reaction then removal is needed. If this is a contusion the symptoms should resolve with time, ice three times a day. As for the electrical shock symptom you describe, is associated with peripheral nerve irritation that should subside as the inflammation resolves. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 22, 2012

Hi, I am 21 years of age. I have a swelling on my big toe. It does not have fluids in the sweeling; the skin around it is hard but the flesh over the most painful spot is soft and if i barely touch it, there is a pain concentrate at the area i touch. I also have something similar on my finger. I was given salycilic acid treatment but that makes the skin soft and causes it to hurt more. If i gently scrape the skin, the flesh comes off. Its dry but not flaky. I was told that its a corn toe but I am convinced its not. I use my thumb regularly as I am a student of architecture so I am now eager to get rid of these ailments. can you help me figure out how to get rid of this or who to consult with. I have already been to a dermatalogist.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. As for your hand lesion, I would recommend you see a orthopedic physician that specializes in the hand and elbow.



  • Question
  • October 22, 2012

I'm only 19 and i have had back problem for about 3 years, i've only been to the doctor once when it first happened. Now i have this pain which feels like knot is on my back, i just need to know whats going on, any advice would be extremely appreciated.

  • Answer

Thank you for your question, but as a podiatrist I do not treat back injuries and recommend you follow up with your physician.



  • Question
  • October 20, 2012

Mold play volleball in p.e and I hit the ball with my fist ,and it hurt a few seconds Then went away, later on that day my dog knocked my thick art notebook , and it hits my hand and it hurt for a long time Then the pain went away, the next day I had a small bump that looks like a vein and it went away after about. A few min but when its touched it pops up

  • Answer

Thank you for your question but unfortunately as a podiatrist I do not treat hands. I would recommend you follow-up with your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • October 18, 2012

I have had a cut on my small toe for two months now. It has formed a scab but is not healing. I got antibiotics for it over a month ago. But it has had no affect. Can you help please. Dominic

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There are many reasons for a wound not to heal and without an examination, I cannot provide you with any recommendations. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 18, 2012

I was in a bad accident 4 months ago, had a #6 TPF. I had the leg reconstructed, but even my therapist is having problems getting my ankle on that leg to have full range of motion. I cannot pull my foot back toward me & I have two golf ball sized knots on the bottom of my foot right in the arch. I have been no weight baring for most of this time & still cannot walk on it. The ankle doesn't hurt to move but it flexes to a point and won't move anymore.

  • Answer

I would recommend you follow up with the surgeon that performed your reconstructive surgery.



  • Question
  • October 18, 2012

I recently developed pain in both my feet at mile 33 of a 100 mile run. Gradually the pain got worse in my rt foot and my compensatin caused pain in my rt knee and rt hip, then left knee, so I stopped running at 50 miles. All discomfort stopped pretty quickly after I stopped running except for pain in my rt ft, on the outer sole between the 5th metatarsal and the heal. It's more under the foot then the outside. I had it x rayed 2 days later and no fracture was present. I typically run in ASIC trail sensors with good arch support and cushion. This race I ran in brooks cascadias for the first time (beyond 27 miles). The urgent care doctor suggested it may be ligament damage from lack of support in my shoe (he said this without knowing I switched shoes) and I should take 4-6 weeks off. I am on my second week off and the feeling is more of a periodic ache in the injured area. I bought super feet med/hi arch inserts for when I do start back. Thoughts on what the injury is? Treatment? Prevention?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, you may have inflammation of the peroneal tendons, tendonitis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. As for prevention a true diagnosis needs to be made as then one can evaluate how to avoid over use injuries. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 18, 2012

Hi im a 35 year old female have noticed a ball of like water fluid on my ankel been having really bad back pains itching all over my body do u have any idea of whats causing thos

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass, fluid retention, inflammation of the ankle joint, a lipoma. As for the itching all over, I would recommend you follow-up with your PCP. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 18, 2012

Hi im a 35 year old female have noticed a ball of like water fluid on my ankel been having really bad back pains itching all over my body do u have any idea of whats causing thos

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass, fluid retention, inflammation of the ankle joint, a lipoma. As for the itching all over, I would recommend you follow-up with your PCP. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 17, 2012

On my left foot there has developed a large separation between the third and fourth toes. Also, third (middle) toe is sore to manipulation and when hiking I am getting severe cramping and burning in the toes of both feet. I am a type 2 diabetic, but it is very well controlled. My A1C is consistently 6. Do you have any thoughts?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your heel spur. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 17, 2012

Had a blister in the palm of my hand now it has become a knot under my skin and very tender to touch and goes numb sometimes

  • Answer

As a podiatrist I do not treat hands, I would recommend you see your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • October 17, 2012

My 17 year old son is a cross country runner. A few months ago he showed me a black circular spot on the side of his big tow (size 13) and now there is a smaller one near the bottom pad of another toe, same foot. He pediatrician saw it and thought it was maybe due to his shoes, but that was when he only had one. It seems the first and larger one is about a centimeter in diamter..the other is much smaller. It bothers him but I think they are painless. There is no redness around his foot and he wears pretty newish shoes that are wide (new balance). What are you thoughts? thank you

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. With that being said, these are most likely blood blisters which are common with runners. These occur from shearing forces from the shoe gear. You can try using different socks and adjusting your shoe laces as well. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 16, 2012

Lately my left foot has been warm and uncomfortable, even while sitting without socks. I wear Nike walking sneakers as I am a teacher and constantly moving about in the classroom. Any ideas what could be happening?

  • Answer

ased on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There are many things that can cause these symptoms ranging from inflammation to infection. Therefore it is difficult to give you any advice. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 16, 2012

Lately, my left foot has felt warm and very uncomfortable. I wear Nike walking sneakers because I am a teacher and am in constant movement doing things around the classroom. Any idea of what may be happening?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There are many things that can cause these symptoms ranging from inflammation to infection. Therefore it is difficult to give you any advice. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 16, 2012

I was recently diagnosed with a stress fracture on the top of my foot. This morning I was getting out of the shower and slipped and all my weight went onto the foot with the fracture. I am know getting bruising on the top of my foot again with swelling on the top of the foot from the toes to the ankle. And also pain now on the ball of my foot. Could I have made the fracture worse?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have caused the stress fracture to go on to full fracture or possibly had new fracture do to the new trauma. I would recommend you follow-up with your treating physician immediately.



  • Question
  • October 15, 2012

Hi, for about a year, i have had a bruise appear on the outside of my right foot right where the pinkie toe attaches to the base of the foot. It comes and goes with no rhyme or reason. i did a sprint tri two weeks ago and had no ill effects and the bruise came back today. i did ride my bike yesterday but not far. in the past year as ive mentioned, ive had this appear a couple of times. my ortho took an xray and didnt see anything. he said he had no idea what it is. any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. It sounds as though you are having some irritation of this part of your foot that results in disruption of your capillaries causing the bruising.



  • Question
  • October 15, 2012

Hello, I found the other day that my left ankle is swollen and bruised but it doesnt hurt. I didnt hurt it in anyway and im just a little worried. Any ideas on whats wrong?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. There are many conditions that can cause these symptoms. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 15, 2012

3 days ago I had two red bumps on the bottom of each foot that feel like splinters but they are not. Today I have four on my right foot and two on my left.. Can you please tell me what this is??

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. There are numerous dermatological conditions that affect the feet. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 15, 2012

I'm experiencing pain near the outer edge of my right foot when walking. It's not constant as I can take several steps with no pain and then severe stabbing pain along the bottom edge, a little bit forward of the middle edge. Also, sometimes the pain shifts from the sole to the upper area of my foot a couple of inches away from my little toe (pain and weakness). It's been like this for months. No swelling or redness. An x-ray has ruled out stress fracture. My podiatrist simply shrugged and said all he has to offer are cortisone shots. It started during treatment for plantar fasciitis (which has healed). I purchased shoes with high arch support which were maybe too high. I stopped wearing those and just wear Birkenstocks and sneakers with the insoles my doctor recommended.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. You may have a sural neurtitis. You may want your podiatrist to block your sural nerve to see if this relieves the symptoms.



  • Question
  • October 14, 2012

hi i was just wondering about this spot on my back that cant be touched because it sends shock waves thro my body... it looks bruised and i have had it for years... it only hurts when it is touched

  • Answer

As a podiatrist I do not treat the upper torso, I would recommend you see your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • October 13, 2012

I have a lump that can be seen on my right foot. It is on the top part of the foot close to the outside of the foot and is about an 1 1/2" the little toe and the ankle bone. It is very painful to touch and when I walk on it. when the foot is flat on the ground the lump can be seen without any problems. The lump is soft to the touch, but very painful. I have had this come up before and there would be 3 lumps and then go away, this is the first time that it has caused this much pain. can you help me? thank you

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass. Treatment includes ice, alteration of shoe gear and aspiration of the lesion. Sometimes surgical excision is required. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 13, 2012

fractured heel 25days ago. Dr put compression bandage. Swelling almost gone but dark bruise or bloodcloth from ankle to toes-Half of foot. Is this normal. Do you think my heel is healing?

  • Answer

With this type of injury, there is a large amount of bleeding from the calcaneous. The bruising takes awhile to resolve, due to gravity and the lower extremity. As for your healing, x-rays are needed to determine this. In general, calcaneal fractures can take months to fully heal.



  • Question
  • October 12, 2012

So for the last month my feet have been numb and its hard to pick them up they fill heavy. I cant even lift my toes up but i can push them down. my left foot is worse than the right.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have peripheral neuropathy, lymphedema/venous insufficiency, or spinal stenosis. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 10, 2012

After running a marathon this weekend, a sliver along the outside of my right foot is hurting me. Preventing me from putting any pressure on it. Is the a common injury? If so any recommendation for recovery?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of the lateral tendons of your foot. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. As for recover time, soft tissue usually heals within 21 days. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 10, 2012

I im a very concerned about this knot i have on my left foot under the skin. I recently started walking for excercise about 2 weeks ago. Hadnt felt the pain until sunday when i tripped twice in one day over a rock. When i tripped my ankle went sideways. The akle doesnt hurt but when i made it back to my car i felt the pain and thats when i noticed a knot. Could it be from walking?

  • Answer

Unfortunately based on your description one cannot determine a differential diagnosis without a physical examination. Generally speaking masses on the bottom of the foot can range from plantar fibromas to ganglion cysts. The lesions are nodular and feel like a lump on the bottom of the foot. They can become symptomatic when they are irritated from weight bearing. There are many other masses that could present like this but they are far less common. Self treatment for either of these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. Seldom we expect to see these masses to spontaneously resolve. Professional evaluation is recommended. Surgical excision is often required for resolution when these masses are painful. Definitive diagnosis can only be made by biopsy of the mass.



  • Question
  • October 10, 2012

About 10 months ago I was diagnosed with gout on my right big toe. It was unbareable pain for 1-2 weeks. I have taken amoxicillin and ibuporben for a couple weeks and now been on a diet to eliminate gout but recently in last 2 months may have had some more seafood or shellfish then normal. 3 days ago I started to have this sprained feeling on my left foot on the 3rd and 4th toe next to pinkytoe. The pain is in the joints of the 2 toes. Is this the start of gout again or something else? Will raising my feet above my head help the Ulric acid go away if it is gout? Should I take amoxicillin and ibuprofen for anti flam story for the joints? Thanks for your help.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this most is likely a gout attack due to consumption of shellfish. Generally speaking an acute attack is treated with anti-inflammatory medications, ice and elevation. Colchicine was used in the past but now is associated with cardiac risks. I would recommend you follow with your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • October 9, 2012

Hi. A few months back I noticed something under my feet that looked like as if a tiny piece of some foriegn object had embedded itself into my flesh. Thinking that it was something I could treat myself, I tried to dig it out without any success. I left it alone for sometime and tried again, with still no success. When I checked a third time, the spot which I had repeatedly dug had gone thick,hard and black. Its extremely painful when pressure is exerted and especially when I'm barefoot. Its situated on the right side of my left foot between the arch of my foot and the heel. Any idea what could have happend?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. . In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 9, 2012

What causes your feet to itch so bad the night before and then the next morning the heels of them are in so much pain.

  • Answer

With your vague description, it is hard to give you a differential diagnosis. With that being said, peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. I would recommend that you discuss this with your physician as there are several treatment options for peripheral neuropathy. Ultimately many specialists are often involved in the treatment of these problems.



  • Question
  • October 9, 2012

Day before yesterday I stepped down on my right foot and heard a pop. Then yesterday while at work my foot was burning. Last night I have a lump on the bottom of my foot in the ball felt like I have something stuck to the bottom of my foot. My toes where cramping and today the burning is back. Any suggestions?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma, although a popping sensation can be associated with a tendon or ligament injury. With that being said, a neuroma is a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your heel spur. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 8, 2012

I HAVE BRUSEING ON MY BREAST OR THEY LOOK LIKE BRUSES THEY DONT HURT BUT IVE HAD THEM FOR 4 YEARS NOW

  • Answer

As a podiatrist I do not treat the upper torso, I would recommend you see your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • October 8, 2012

My husband is overweight but recently has had a full work up and e wry thing came back normal with 2 exceptions. One was low testosterone which he is taking shots for and the other issue is sleep apnea. He recently has had random swelling in his ankle and feet with lots of pain in his toes including numbness and a burning sensation. What are something's to try or ask our doctor about looking into. He's a plumber so his on his feet a lot. As we get older things start to hurt not sure if its just age and weight playing into this or something more serious. He has started working out but the swelling is still there. What could it be?

  • Answer

Based on your description, some swelling in the ankles is associated with sleep apnea. Other causes of swelling in the ankles can be renal insufficency, congestive heart failure, arthritis, lymphedema, and venous insufficency. As for the numbness and burning sensations, these are symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy. Causes of neuropathy are diabetes, lower back pathology (spinal stenosis, bulging disk).



  • Question
  • October 7, 2012

I just hit my ankle on my box fan and right away it bruised and is swelling and now my toes are tingling, is that normal? or what did i do to my ankle?

  • Answer

Based on your description, when you have swelling of the ankle with bruising this can put pressure on the near by nerves causing them to be irritated and cause symptoms such as tingling and numbness. I wound recommend you elevate, use ice and a compression wrap. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 6, 2012

I'm having a sharp pain on the side of my left foot. It come every after 30 min or so,I think I had an injury I can see the redness on the area and its painful when I press on the affected area

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of a tendon on the lateral aspect of your foot. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 5, 2012

MY INDEX TOE ON MY LEFT FOOT THROBS WHEN I'M SITTING OR LAYING DOWN.IF I SQUEEZE IT FOR A WHILE I DON'T FEEL IT.THEN I RELEASE IT AND IT RETURNS IN A FEW SECONDS.IT WAKES ME UP AT TIMES WHEN I SLEEP LIGHTLY. YOUR INPUT PLEASE?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your heel spur. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 5, 2012

on Wednesday i got hit with a hockey stick on the centre of my hand and its now friday it is still swollen but i can move it. can you help ?

  • Answer

As a podiatrist I do not treat hands. I would recommend you see your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • October 4, 2012

Hello doctors, maybe you can help me with an issue I am having with my left foot. First a little background. I am a professional chef and on my feet at least 55 hours a week. I have worn dansko professional clogs for over 4 years. I buy a new pair about every 6 months because my feet start to ache after that. About two weeks ago I was working an out door kitchen in a field for a charity event and I felt a sharp pain in the arch of my foot for about 5 minutes. It felt like I had stepped on something sharp but I know that would not matter because dansko clogs are so thick. But for the past two weeks after that I get that pain in the arch of my foot for about 30 seconds every once and a while. Today I got the pain in my foot for the first time while wearing sneakers. Is there anything you can tell me to do to eliminate this pain. I do constantly stretch my feet by pulling my toes all the way up. Please help. Thank you

  • Answer

There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 4, 2012

Hi, ive ways been an athlete and have always had tight calf muscles but recently while running i get a sharp pain around my achilles tendon and about 3 inches up towards my calf. The pain makes my foot feel weak and then after a few minutes the pain goes away and simultaneously my entire foot falld asleep. I was thinking achilles tendonitis but treating for that hasnt helped. I appreciate your help!!

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have tarsal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), also known as posterior tibial neuralgia, is a compression neuropathy and painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel.[1] This tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus (bump on the inside of the ankle). The posterior tibial artery, tibial nerve, and tendons of the tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus muscles travel in a bundle through the tarsal tunnel. Inside the tunnel, the nerve splits into three different segments. One nerve (calcaneal) continues to the heel, the other two (medial and lateral plantar nerves) continue on to the bottom of the foot. The tarsal tunnel is delineated by bone on the inside and the flexor retinaculum on the outside. Treatments typically include rest, manipulation, strengthening of tibialis anterior, tibialis posterior, peroneus and short toe flexors, casting with a walker boot, corticosteroid and anesthetic injections, hot wax baths, wrapping, compression hose, and orthotics. Medications may include various anti-inflammatories such as Anaprox, or other medications such as Ultracet, Neurontin and Lyrica. Lidocaine patches are also a treatment that helps some patients.



  • Question
  • October 4, 2012

Hi, ive ways been an athlete and have always had tight calf muscles but recently while running i get a sharp pain around my achilles tendon and about 3 inches up towards my calf. The pain makes my foot feel weak and then after a few minutes the pain goes away and simultaneously my entire foot falld asleep. I was thinking achilles tendonitis but treating for that hasnt helped. I appreciate your help!!

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have tarsal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), also known as posterior tibial neuralgia, is a compression neuropathy and painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel.[1] This tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus (bump on the inside of the ankle). The posterior tibial artery, tibial nerve, and tendons of the tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus muscles travel in a bundle through the tarsal tunnel. Inside the tunnel, the nerve splits into three different segments. One nerve (calcaneal) continues to the heel, the other two (medial and lateral plantar nerves) continue on to the bottom of the foot. The tarsal tunnel is delineated by bone on the inside and the flexor retinaculum on the outside. Treatments typically include rest, manipulation, strengthening of tibialis anterior, tibialis posterior, peroneus and short toe flexors, casting with a walker boot, corticosteroid and anesthetic injections, hot wax baths, wrapping, compression hose, and orthotics. Medications may include various anti-inflammatories such as Anaprox, or other medications such as Ultracet, Neurontin and Lyrica. Lidocaine patches are also a treatment that helps some patients.



  • Question
  • October 4, 2012

Hi, ive ways been an athlete and have always had tight calf muscles but recently while running i get a sharp pain around my achilles tendon and about 3 inches up towards my calf. The pain makes my foot feel weak and then after a few minutes the pain goes away and simultaneously my entire foot falld asleep. I was thinking achilles tendonitis but treating for that hasnt helped. I appreciate your help!!

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have tarsal tunnel syndrome. Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), also known as posterior tibial neuralgia, is a compression neuropathy and painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel.[1] This tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus (bump on the inside of the ankle). The posterior tibial artery, tibial nerve, and tendons of the tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus muscles travel in a bundle through the tarsal tunnel. Inside the tunnel, the nerve splits into three different segments. One nerve (calcaneal) continues to the heel, the other two (medial and lateral plantar nerves) continue on to the bottom of the foot. The tarsal tunnel is delineated by bone on the inside and the flexor retinaculum on the outside. Treatments typically include rest, manipulation, strengthening of tibialis anterior, tibialis posterior, peroneus and short toe flexors, casting with a walker boot, corticosteroid and anesthetic injections, hot wax baths, wrapping, compression hose, and orthotics. Medications may include various anti-inflammatories such as Anaprox, or other medications such as Ultracet, Neurontin and Lyrica. Lidocaine patches are also a treatment that helps some patients.



  • Question
  • October 3, 2012

Hi. I'm 19, and my foot has been hurting for almost a week now. Last Thursday I went and played racquetball with some friends, and I woke up Friday with a sore left foot. The pain is primarily in my arch. I had some errands to run so I put on my tennis shoes. My tennis shoes aren't fully broken in since they're only about two months old, but later that night, I had on a pair of Under Armour sandals that I wore for most of the summer, and it feels as though my sandals are broken in wrong, or maybe I should say that it feels like my foot doesn't seem to align with my sandals. Do you know what's happened to my foot and what I can do to get rid of the pain? I walk probably three miles a day at least since I'm on a huge college campus so I could really use some advice. Thanks.

  • Answer

There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 3, 2012

Hi i have a big lumpy spot which has blood and pus in and it is between my boobs which hurts a hell of alot i am scared to what it is? is it cancer? i have been to my doctor but have not got a good result to tell me what it is.

  • Answer

As a podiatrist I do not treat above the knee. I would recommend you follow-up with your current physician.



  • Question
  • October 3, 2012

i have ben wakeing up with a little bit of purple on my toes.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I am unable to provide you with a diagnosis. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 2, 2012

my right baby toenail is very thick and has been giving me pain. when i cut it i noticed it ahs grown into the skin some. its very painful. i was involved in a accident where all 5 toes dislocated and became arthritic so i cant move them. they spread out because of my foot being crushed(i have screws). could that have come from my toenail not being able to grow outward when i where shoes and my foot swells?

  • Answer

Based on your description, nail thickening can happen after trauma to the nail matrix as well as with conditions such as fungus infection of the nail plate. As for your foot swelling this is probably related to your injury. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • October 2, 2012

I have a cut between my pinky toe and it looks kinda yellow and sore swollen. It also looks like black tint to it. I wear black ankle socks for work do you think a fuzzie got in the cut and got infected. My foot is swlooen and sore to walk on. Thank you for your time

  • Answer

Based on your description, I cannot provide you with a differential diagnosis without an examination. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 30, 2012

I have pain in the sole of my right foot. When I walk it feels as if I am stepping on a smooth rock. I walk for exercise 4 or 5 days a week. For the past 3 weeks I've used ice and taken ibuprofen. And i have done no walking. Is there anything else I can do? What has caused this? I want to be pain free again and I don't want to re-injure!

  • Answer

There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 30, 2012

Hi I'm 24. I recently woke up with a sort left foot two days ago, I didn't think anything of it until yesterday when I went to work and wasn't able to walk properly and noticed there is a swollen little lump on the ball of my foot. It's that painful I haven't been able to sleep. Can u help please

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your a metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a stress fracture of the metatarsal as well as a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 30, 2012

Hi I'm 24. I recently woke up with a sort left foot two days ago, I didn't think anything of it until yesterday when I went to work and wasn't able to walk properly and noticed there is a swollen little lump on the ball of my foot. It's that painful I haven't been able to sleep. Can u help please

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your a metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a stress fracture of the metatarsal as well as a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 29, 2012

A few times in the past couple of months, my husband has been experiencing a sharp, almost bee like sting, sensation in his toe closest to his big toes on his left foot. In addition to the stinging, there is a slightly noticeable bulge under the toe (almost like a popped blood vessel). It then begans to throb, swell a bit and then feel a bit numb. Sometimes it looks bruised other times it doesn't. The discomfort goes away in a day or so but it seems to be happening more frequently now. Do you have any idea what this might be? My husband is in his 50's and in good health aside from having hemochromatosis. I looked up the symptoms of Reynaud's disease and he doesn't have any of those. Thank you.

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your heel spur. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 29, 2012

I had an accident at work where i rolled a golf cart and it landed on my left leg breaking my foot. I also have alot of bruising on my knee and thingh which dr said looks like soft tissue damage. My question is my accident happened four weeks ago and i still have what feels like a big knot by my knee relatively painless a little soreness from time to time, is this normal how long before it heals or should i have it looked at again.

  • Answer

I do not treat knees and would highly recommend you be evaluated by your physician for this complaint immediately as you may have a blood clot.



  • Question
  • September 29, 2012

I am 47 y/o. I had a retrocalcaneal exostectomy in early March 2012. This was done in the military where they shaved off a prominent bone spur. They split my achilles, shaved off the spur, reattached the achilles with 2 anchors and sutures. Everything was doing okay except for the achilles tightness pain I always have before and after my PT. On my last visit this week, end of September, more than 6 months after the surgery, my podiatrist showed me the Xray that a bone is starting to grow around the reattachment area by the calcaneous. It is still very shadowy in the picture but you can tell that there is growth. This spur was not there on the Xray done in June, 3 months after the surgery. Until now, I still have a pain on this foot although I'm gradually increasing my run and I'm running for 15 minutes now with slow pace (5 mph). The pain is worst than before my surgery. Will this go away or do I need to the this growing spur re-done? I really want to get back running but this pain is limiting me. And I don't want the spur to get worst. I have read about arthroscopy on calcaneous exostosis. Please advise. Thanks.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you continue with your current treatment regimen as you are only 7 months post op and it is too early to have a repeat procedure done in my opinion. As for having this done arthroscopically, the procedure does not lend itself to this technique as direct visualization of the calcaneous and the achilles tendon is required.



  • Question
  • September 29, 2012

I couldn't tell you much on what happened, when I was riding fourwheelers it flipped I didn't hurt my self just bruises, but when I stood up on my feet I felt severe pain, the pain starts from my big toe down, and under neath big toe, it is swollen compared to my right foot. I can't move my big toe when I try to move it with my hand it hurts really bad and when i push under neath the big toe it hurts to where i wanna cry also when someone rubs on the heel part underneath my toe there is no feeling, It's been going on almost 7 weeks, I did three X-rays nothing is broke , one doctor said it is something that she barely sees And thinks its nerve damage and the foot doctor said he thinks it torn tissues,so I get a MRI in two weeks, I just wanted to ask what y'all think the problem would be? could something be wrong with the joint in my foot??

  • Answer

Based on your description, the MRI should provide more information about the issue you are having with your foot as it will identify the soft tissue structures.



  • Question
  • September 26, 2012

Hi doctors, I've been active the last 4-5 years. Running, cardio, races, etc. my major issue is when I do a lot of side to side jumping,high impact or stairmaster type stuff, the outside bottoms of both feet with hurt & burn like they're on fire. I've tried every type of sneakers, insoles, no help. I tried looking it up, it sounds like cuboid syndrome. At least the symptoms. The only way I can get the burn to stop when it occurs, is stepping on a ball, a pole, a curb, a lump of anything I can find. Doesn't happen when I run or jump rope. Only jump overs, side to side jumps, etc. I almost want to cry.

  • Answer

Based on your description, you are on the right track with the cuboid syndrome. You may also have peroneal tendonitis as the longus passes under the cuboid notch and the brevis inserts on the 5th metatarsal base. These tendons help stabilize the foot on the ground with side to side motion. You may want to try Ankle brace when you do side to side motion exercises. If this does not help you should be evaluated. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 23, 2012

My son is 11 years old since he was about 2 he he gets severe pain in between his big and second toe. Only at night. It does not happen often and only happens in his left foot. We have always thought is was growing pains. It will go away when I put pressure on it or massage it. It is very painful for him . Last night it lasted on and off for about 2 hours.What could this be attributed to?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said this is probably growing pains. Other less likely diagnosis would bed nerve entrapment or osteiod osteoma (benign bone tumor). We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 20, 2012

i'm also wondering if i can submit a picture of my toes to somebody through email just to be sure and to get an expert opinion, everything is greatly appreciated! two random black spots in the center of both my 2nd toes in front of them

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a residual blood blister under the epidermis from the bruising you describe. Eventually the skin and blood will slough off. . We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 20, 2012

i have a little black dot in front of both my 2nd toes on both feet, they don't hurt or cause any trouble, i'm just curious as to what they are from and if they go away. both of those 2nd toes have been bruised in the past so i don't know if that has anything to do with it. but yeah they are just little black dots in the center in front of both my 2nd toes

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a residual blood blister under the epidermis from the bruising you describe. Eventually the skin and blood will slough off. . We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 18, 2012

So i rolled my ankle really bad playing in a basketball game and i couldnt walk on it for about 3 to 4 days. it has been 2 weeks now and the swelling has gone down. there is still a little bruising on the outside of my foot. but the pain is now on the outside and in the arch of my foot. it kills to walk on it and I still cant even jog. My ankle does not hurt anymore. Just my foot. What is wrong and how do I fix it?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. In general an ankle sprain usuasally only involves the lateral ankle ligaments that are injured. However with a inversion sprain of the ankle a 5th metatarsal base fracture must be considered. In light of your pain on the bottom of your foot I would highly recommend you be evaluated by a physician for an examination and x-rays. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 17, 2012

Doctor, exactly two years ago I had a small bike accident i.e. while waiting for the traffic light to turn green I got pushed by a car gently but firmly. In order to avoid that the bike - quite heavy - would fall on my right leg, I did a wrong movement with my right leg and foot so as to retain it. As a consequence I hurt my back, was diagnosed L5 S1 hernia and partially lost sensibility (down to some 50%) in the inferior part of my right leg. Six months later hernia in the back had disappeared but sensibility in the inferior right leg has only returned partly. But the real problem is that since then I have had a funny feeling under my right foot as if there were a small stone or small in my shoe. I did radios in both feet and legs and even an exam to measure the reactivity in the mussels of the leg in question (I got complimented by the doctor for the excellent response as shown in the related myogram), all is perfectly functional according to the doctors. I have no pain per se but I feel this sensation at every single step I take except for when I am laying on the bed. I stopped running for two years because of the accident and did biking in the place. I have started running again in that the doctors told me not to worry, but this feeling (I repeat, no pain) is very difficult to live with on a permanent basis. O am fit, no overweight or diabetes problem, but would like to know if this problem (feeling something in my shoe) depends on the foot (mechanical) or is a memory effect of the past back problem (electric) as my generalist doctor thinks. Many thanks in advance for your kind assistance.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. If there is no visiable lesion in your skin, this may be a neuroma. This is a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that causes numbness, burring sensation, cramping between the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 17, 2012

About 6 years Ago I fell on some stairs, my leg went between the stairs and I fell backwards. Ever since then I've had a soft spot on the front of my leg that is super sensitive to touch and if pressed on causes me severe pain. When the incident happened i had x-rays done and they said it wasnt broken. It doesn't usually hurt when I walk but here lately it has been bruising and I feel pressure on it when I walk. What could this be?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a nerve entrapment at the area where the initial trauma occurred. You could also have a stress fracture of your tibia. I would recommend you use ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • September 15, 2012

Hello, my 11 year son had a small splinter in the ball of his foot, I was unable to remove all of it. After approx 3 months, a small white circle encapsulated it, now the white area around it is expanding and is hard. It is only painful to touch when pushed hard; he walks on it with no pain. Now there are several small raised white bumps around his great toe and a few near this white area. Are these things related? What if anything needs to be done to treat the hard white area? He plays rep hockey and baseball so I do hope it will not take him away from sports. Thanks for your help.

  • Answer

Based on your description, the area where the splinter was originally could be a foreign bidy reaction/inclusion cyst. As for the other lesions, these may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. It is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 15, 2012

i have researched for months & cant find anything that sounds like the knot i have on the outer side on the back upper part of my heel ( left of the achilles area). it does not hurt on the bottom of my heel at all. it hurts to touch it. staying off my foot doesnt help, ice, heat, ibuprophen, aspirin, nothing is helping. my left leg is about 14mm shorter than right, found this out in 91 w/back injury/surgery. i wore a lift in my shoe about 10 years, havent worn it in about 10 years now, i go barefooted all the time, wear sandals, flip flops until this pain. my mom gave me a pair of her berkinstock(something like that) I know that's not correct brand, but you prob know what shoe i am talking about. i am wearing those now and only those. its a tiny bit better. dont know what im gona do when it gets cold and i cant wear a sandal cuz it hurts for anything to touch it, it is a red knot. i think something may have hit it very hard maybe several months ago, i cant remember, my memory sucks really from severe stress depression. i have also gained about 30-40 lbs in the past year (1st time in my life) i am 48 yr old white female 5'8" -normally weight 160 - last time on scales 175 - i am sure it is more than that now prob 185. i am wearing a size 16. my back surgery was laminectomy L-4, L-5 & S-1 that slipped back out 6 wks after surgery in 1991. had chronic pain about 8 yrs. my 8 yrs to get better is long story where i was basically a guinea pig w/my doctor a D.O. in structural meds, ins companies didnt even know what he was doing to me, it worked though. injections long needles about 50-80 ea visit deep in ligaments to basically aggrivate condition worse to cause rush of blood to that area to promote natural healing. my ligaments were like butter due to blow to top of my head, by heavy plexi glass windshield of my dads golf cart fell off shelf on top my head. the shots would put me down a week, when i got up week later, i had some improvement. we did this for about 8years, very expensive at the time they called it sclerotherapy. the ins co classified it as out patient surgery, however it wasnt. i dont think any that has anything to do with my heel, but i've wondered if going w/o my lift so long now and wearing improper shoes and the weight gain has anything to do with it. can you break your heel?? i havent been to dr in 3-4 yrs, no job, no money. i need a job, but can hardly walk with this heel much less wear a real shoe or wear a business suit, etc. please i can send you a picture of it if that would help. at onset of pain it hurt worse taking my weight off the foot that the initial putting weight onto the foot, if that helps you any.

  • Answer

Based on your description this is most likely a Haglund's deformity. Haglund's deformity is a bony prominence on the back of the heel. A tight shoe or a rigid heel counter common on most dress shoes causes irritation of the skin over this bone spur irritating the Achilles insertion. Over time this often leads to the formation of a bursa (a fluid filled sack) between the skin and the bone. This makes the area even more prominent and just makes the problem worse. If the pain is more central this may be a retrocalcaneal exostosis a similar problem due to calcification within the Achilles tendon. Self- treatment for these conditions is ice, avoidance of impact activities, shoe gear (soft heel counter or open back shoe), no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. If the problem is only with the occasional use of dress shoes, a silicone pad placed between your skin and sock often can provide good relief. For some individuals long term relief is best achieved by surgical removal of the prominent bone spur. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement with padding, ice, and changes in shoe gear I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 13, 2012

Recently I have increased my physical activity - mostly involving running. I have recently started to fell pain on the OUTSIDE edge of my left foot (middle area but on the side) after wearing a new pair of Nike cross trainers. I MUST wear the Nike shoe at work. The first 2-3 hrs is okey but the last hour is painful. The pain last for a while but I roll my foot over a "frozen solid small water bottle" - stay off the foot as much as possible and by morning it is returned to normal (pretty much). I only work in these shoes once a week and it has happened the past 3 weeks. Changing shoes is not an option.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your peroneal tendon insertion, tendonitis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes (a running shoe with motion control), compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. I would also check your shoes as Nike has had problems in the past with quality control. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • September 13, 2012

In 2010 I had back surgery. They placed a plate and screws in. After the surgery the bottom of my left leg (around ankle) and my foot feels numb at times. I walk with a slight limp. A few days ago when I "arch" my foot, the ball of my foot hurts REALLY bad. I also experience a wierd cramp it kind of feels like a leg cramp but my foot (left) either turns in or out on its own. It only lasts a few seconds. What is going on?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may possibly be related to your back surgery and I would recommend you follow-up with your back surgeon for an evaluation.



  • Question
  • September 11, 2012

Doctor I have a painful bump in between my toes it has thick skin around it and it has a black dot in the middle. It hurts to walk or when ever I put pressure on it which is everyday. The pain feels like they are pulling joints or nerves in my entire foot. What is this thing called

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have helloma molle which is an inter-digital corn/callus. The black dot in the middle is most likely blood but could also indicate that this may be a wart. I would recommend you use wider shoe gear and a offloading spacer in between your toes. If you get no relief then the lesion may need to be trimmed down. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 10, 2012

Hi. I am 24 years old and just had my 3rd child 3 weeks ago. When i was pregnant with the first two i would get a itchy burning sensation and then it would turn into swelling, usually under the toes. It would feel like i was walking on a ball. It would go away after elevating my feet. My doctor said it was normal. I didnt get that with my last pregnancy until the day after i gave birth. I find that it happens after i am standing for a period of time. It happened a few times during the first week after giving birth and then happened again tonight while i was making dinner. Is this something i should be worried about or is it "normal"?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 10, 2012

Hi. I am 24 years old and just had my 3rd child 3 weeks ago. When i was pregnant with the first two i would get a itchy burning sensation and then it would turn into swelling, usually under the toes. It would feel like i was walking on a ball. It would go away after elevating my feet. My doctor said it was normal. I didnt get that with my last pregnancy until the day after i gave birth. I find that it happens after i am standing for a period of time. It happened a few times during the first week after giving birth and then happened again tonight while i was making dinner. Is this something i should be worried about or is it "normal"?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 10, 2012

i have had buldging disk now for almost 6 years ive gone through physical therapy 2 times and now my si joint wont stay in place and causes me terrible pain in my right side of my lower back can you tell me why it wont stay in place and what can i do to keep it not hurting

  • Answer

As a podiatrist, I only treat below the knee. Therefore, I would recommend you follow-up with your orthopedist as your complaint is there specialty.



  • Question
  • September 10, 2012

hi..i am 27yea old lady mothr of a four month old baby.am noticing a small lump since three month of my pregnancy and its still there which grew a bit with little pain when touched and sumtymes even whie walking..dis lump almost mixed wid my left foot thumb..can u help me with this situation...

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 10, 2012

Im 18 years old and Ive been getting small bumps, that i at first thought were very small bug bites, all over my body. I get them all at different times. Sometimes there is only one and sometimes ill have numerous outbreaks. Ive gotten them between my fingers and on my arms the most. They start out as teeny bumps and are unbearabley itchy. After i itch the one bump for a little while more, larger bumps appear. Sometimes one will open and secrete a clear fluid. Then after the bumps go away the area is still red and little purple/red dots appear. They look like very teeny bruises or blood blisters, the size of a pin prick. I went to the dermatologist and he said it was folliculitis. This was about a month ago and i changed all of my soaps to ones for sensitive skin, i use cerave for moisturizer and i switched to a laundry detergent for sensitive skin. Please help!! -brooke

  • Answer

As a podiatrist, I only treat below the knee. Therefore, I would recommend you follow-up with your dermatologist as your complaint is there specialty.



  • Question
  • September 9, 2012

I'm a healthy, fortyish male. For the last month or so, the outside edge of the last joint of my right little toe burns under pressure. I notice this especially when I wear sandals, since my outer toe on each side rolls outwards slightly, and I have small callus in this spot. My question: should I worry about it? The pain is sharp but fairly infrequent, and in a remote corner of my body, so I could ignore it. But if it were likely to get worse, or it might predict some more serious problem, it would be good to know.

  • Answer

Based on your description, the callus is causing pressure on the small sensory nerves of your 5th toe causing you symptoms. I would recommend you use a pumice stone and moisturizer to soften the callus as well as using a good supportive shoe gear.



  • Question
  • September 6, 2012

I have a burning/numbness sensation on the bottom of my foot at the back of my arch. I thought it was plantar fasciitis but I have no stiffness, pain, or any other symptoms. The pain is there sometimes at rest and sometimes during activity. Any ideas.

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are most likely associated with Baxter's neuritis. It does not say if this is one foot or both. If both could be peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. Treatment for neuritis is ice, anti-inflammatories and supportive shoe gear. As for peripheral neuropathy identifying the underlying cause/condition is paramount to treatment and would recommend you be evaluated by a Neurologist.



  • Question
  • September 5, 2012

Okayy , I was at practice and I fell and my ankle popped but i can still put pressure on it and walk. What should I do

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you be evaluated by a foot and ankle physician as you most likely have a sprain or fracture that should be treated as the long term sequelae for an untreated injury can lead to ankle instability and arthritis.



  • Question
  • September 5, 2012

almost a year ago I got a splinter in my left foot, ball area just under the big toe around the callus area. It took me a couple of month to finally get it out or at least think I got it out. I cannot see any debris left over from the splinter. All was fine until a couple of months ago. I now feel a knot about 1/2 the size of a dime in that area and it is painful to walk, run, ect. up until the painful knot, I was doing elliptical training twice a day (actually lost 35lbs in 4 months) Now i cannot jog or do elliptical without almost unbearable pain. Could this be possible scar tissure from me digging the splinter out myself over the course of 2 months? I will eventually go to the doctor but, I'm a self pay with 3 kids and they always come first. :) I have a high tollerence for pain but, this is almost too much for me to even bear much longer. Thank you

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a retained foreign body with a granuloma. This is a benign mass that may respond to treatment with ice and alteration of shoe gear, although more likely will require surgical excision based on your description. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 4, 2012

does 2,4d lake treatment cause muchy green slush near shores?

  • Answer

Not sure what your asking.



  • Question
  • September 4, 2012

Hi! Im 24 years old, my right foot has been swelling up for the past two years. It started a couple months after my first child was born. The swelling is mostly on the bottom of my foot towards my toes, on the top right half and im not having any pain. I have had a blood test to see if there are any blood clots, an ultrasound of my leg and foot and an xray but everything seems to be normal. I do "crack" my right ankle alot and I did have alot of swelling in both feet and legs during my pregnancy. Does this sound like something I should be worried about?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, with the x-rays being negative as well as the ultrasound this would lead me to recommend you see a vascular surgeon to be worked up for varicose veins and/or lymphedema.



  • Question
  • September 3, 2012

recently brushed the inside of my right foot below the big toe and felt like I had tiny cactus needle in it. Could see nothing and could not touch it without flinching. Used the old duct tape to remove unseen splinters approach with little change. What's up with this? Just feels like 10s of tiny stingers or cactus needles. Should this be a concern or will it go away? Thanks. Dan

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. . You may have inflammation of the sesmoids vs a neuritis, nerve inflammation. Treatment includes ice and alteration of shoe gear. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 3, 2012

Hello, I have pain in my second toe with flexing it or moving it, as well as pain in the space between the big toe and the second toe. I stand on my feet for my job, but this pain is there, though less intense, even when I have been off from works for months.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your second metatarsal phalangeal joint vs sesmoid inflammation. You could also have a stress fracture of the second metatarsal as well as a first interspace neuroma. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 2, 2012

on my left shin to the left side when i walk i have a painful fluid squishy feeling... it went away yesterday but had came back worse, and i feel a cool burning sensation when im sitting relaxed .... been taking anti imflamatory medication but hasnt seemed to got any better, this isnt shin splints is it?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 1, 2012

Hello. Recently experiencing a sharp pain on left front foot slightly under the ankle while walking. Think it has to do with the veins on the front. Also feels the Pain when climbing stairs. Please help. Do I Ice it or dip in hot water?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your ankle joint or subtalar joint. Having pain while climbing stairs can also indicate an anterior ankle impingement. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 1, 2012

I have what I initially thought was a blister about 1cm proximal from the middle of my 5th and 4th toe. I then thought it might be a callus, but it's been around and painful for about 6 weeks. If i'm standing on the ball of my foot the pain escalates. what do i have doc? any home remedy or should/do i have to go see a physician

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • September 1, 2012

I have a bum almost two fingers wide and it is under the skin. It isn't callous and its not a blister. It hurts really bad when ever I put any presure on it. What could it possibly be? It has been there for about 2 Weeks and it seems to be getting bigger. What could it possibly be and if it doesn't go away could it possibly need to be surgically removed?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a stress fracture of the metatarsal as well as a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 29, 2012

Hello. I have a bump on the right side of my right foot just under my pinky toe. The bump is actually on both feet but my right side is concerning me. I\\\'ve had this bump for a while now and just today it has started to hurt a lot. It feels hot and swollen and I can hardly walk on it. What do you suppose it is?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your fifth metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a soft tissue mass such as a ganglion cyst as well as a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 28, 2012

I Have a bum on the back of my ankle. it hurts really bad , and it itches . Its kinda clearish

  • Answer

Based on your description, It is difficult to give you a diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that said, this is most likely a Haglund's deformity that has caused a blister on the back of your heel. Haglund's deformity is a bony prominence on the back of the heel. A tight shoe or a rigid heel counter common on most dress shoes causes irritation of the skin over this bone spur irritating the Achilles insertion. Over time this often leads to the formation of a bursa (a fluid filled sack) between the skin and the bone. This makes the area even more prominent and just makes the problem worse. If the pain is more central this may be a retrocalcaneal exostosis a similar problem due to calcification within the Achilles tendon. Self- treatment for these conditions is ice, avoidance of impact activities, shoe gear (soft heel counter or open back shoe), no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. If the problem is only with the occasional use of dress shoes, a silicone pad placed between your skin and sock often can provide good relief. For some individuals long term relief is best achieved by surgical removal of the prominent bone spur. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement with padding, ice, and changes in shoe gear I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 27, 2012

I have bumps under my skin they started out about 2 years ago thought they were bug bites over the past year it has progressively gotten worse to spread over my hole ankle bone and up to my leg bone which is about a 2cm lump that feels connected to the bone. Again the bumps are red and sometimes turn purple depending on what I have been doing that day. Is this to be concerned about could it be cancer?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 26, 2012

I hit my ankle on the table and it started to swell up. I still have pain in the ankle but it doesnt hurt when i walk just when i walk. what could it be?

  • Answer

Based on your description its sounds like you have a contusion. If this continues to cause discomfort, I would recommend you have an examination and x-rays. You may want to apply ice 20 minuets on and 20 minuets off as well as anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them.



  • Question
  • August 23, 2012

Hi. I have a very small bump on the edge outside right side of foot about in the middle between the pinky toe and heel. I was running and walking on a hard surface. I stopped about a week ago and started swimming instead because my calf and shin muscles were ridiculously tight. I went swimming 2 nights ago, just doing laps, and when I woke up the next day my right foot hurt and I had this very small bump. I have stayed off the foot for a day and soaked it in Epsom salt. It's better but still hurts.The bump is so small you won't notice it unless you are staring at my foot and comparing it to the other side.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of the peroneal brevis tendon insertion of the foot. The bump could also be a soft tissue mass, skin lesion or bursa. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 21, 2012

I have had periodical itching (intense sometimes)on the bottom of my right foot. I can feel small bumps under the skin when it itches. Sometimes I go for a long time without any itching at all. Then for some reason, the itching starts and the bumps appear. could this be athlete's foot or some other dermititis problem?

  • Answer

Based on your description, I am unable to provide a diagnosis with an examination. With that being said, it sounds as though this may be atopic dermatitis or a tinea pedis. I would recommend you follow-up with a podiatrist or dermatologist when the lesions are present.



  • Question
  • August 20, 2012

once a year my big and second toe will swell up and it moves down my foot. it will about kill me to move them two toes and very hard to walk on it.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have gout. I would recommend you use ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them during these flare-ups. I would also recommend you see your physician during a flare-up as lab work and a clinical examination will be able to provide a differential diagnosis. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 20, 2012

Hello Drs. For several months, I have been experiencing pain in the ball area of my right foot. The pain seams to originate under the second toe (beside the big toe). When I stand or walk, the pain can be unbearable. When I rest my foot, the pain goes away quickly. Moving the toe itself can be very painful. To be honest, it feels like I injured my toe. But all I can recall is having a dull ache, when I stretched my feet/toes months ago. Years ago I was diagnosed with Plantar Fascitis. I don't think I have that now because how quickly the pain goes away when I rest my foot. With the Plantar fascitis, the pain never left my feet. Thanks for your help. Carolyn

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your second metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a stress fracture of the second metatarsal. There are several causes of inflammation of joints. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes,and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 18, 2012

I woke up the other day and my left foot was hurting real bad just on the left side. My pink toe and the one next to it. And also the area below them. Also the veins leading up to the toes is off line.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I am unable to provide a differential diagnosis. I would recommend you follow up with a local foot and ankle specialist if this continues to bother you.



  • Question
  • August 18, 2012

I woke up the other day and my left foot was hurting real bad just on the left side. My pink toe and the one next to it. And also the area below them. Also the veins leading up to the toes is off line.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I am unable to provide a differential diagnosis. I would recommend you follow up with a local foot and ankle specialist if this continues to bother you.



  • Question
  • August 16, 2012

My left foot all down the left side is in constant pain. It especially hurts when I first stand up after sitting a few minutes and when I get up in the morning. My left foot feels very sore all over the left side, very tight. I have to force myself to walk on it for a while than the pain gets less and less. What is that?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of the lateral tendons of the foot. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 15, 2012

My husband woke about 3am with severe pain in his left hip and couldn't get around that morning. We put ice on it and it was badly swollen. The next day blood surface and covered the whole hip and also in the bend of the knee. What might have caused this.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this sounds like a hematoma but an infection can cause similar symptoms. I would highly recommend you follow-up with your primary doctor to have this evaluated.



  • Question
  • August 14, 2012

Hello Drs. I've been having the same amount of pain in both balls of feet and under my toes,and they feel like thier swelled up all the time.tried a lot of insoles but no luck. What problems do I have? I'm over wieght by about 25 lbs. and am 69 yrs. old. It seems like its getting worse every year. Please help if possible.Would taking l-arginine or pro-arginine cause me problems as such? Thank you Art

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your lesser metatarsal phalangeal joints, capsulits. Also as we age we loose the fat pad on the bottom of our feet that is our natural cushioning. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. You could also try adding a metatarsal pad to the insoles you bought. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • August 13, 2012

Hello, I went jogging about one week ago and woke up the next morning with pain along the outer edge of my right foot. The pain has subsided some but it begins hurting if I walk around for more than 15 minutes straight. When I flex and point my foot there is almost a squishy feeling where the pain usually starts. The feeling doesn't hurt itself but it is definitely noticeable. I have not seen any kind of doctor about the pain because I figured it would resolve on it's own but the liquid feeling in my foot is beginning to concern me. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks, Michelle Mac

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of a tendon or join on the outer edge of your foot that gives you the liquid feeling you describe. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 15, 2012

A week ago during travel to Houston for business, I woke up Tuesday morning with a painful right ear and a painful bump on the front left side of my head, inside my hairline. I initially thought it was an ear infection. Since last week, the bump on my head has continued to give me stabbing pains. Red, swollen bumpy skin (without pustules) has been spreading across the right side of my scalp and down my forehead. It doesn\\\'t itch, but it is painful to the touch and continues to spread. I went to urgent care on Sunday and was diagnosed with Cellulitis, prescribed antibiotics and steroids. On Tuesday I went to my regular doctor, who diagnosed Shingles and prescribed Valacylovir and Zovirax. I don\\\'t have faith in either diagnosis - Cellulitis doesn\\\'t spread like this, and Shingles presents with a more defined rash, pustules, and red bumps - adult chicken pox. This continues to spread across my forehead and down my face; down to just above my right eye now and I\\\'m growing seriously concerned. My wife thinks I got bitten by something, accounting for the original lump on my head, and the continued stabbing pain that is coming out of it - both doctors have looked in my hairline and not seen anything unusual except the bump. Ithought I\\\'d write this before going to an ER to check myself in to see what opinion you might have. Respectfully, Justin H.

  • Answer

As a foot and ankle specialist, I cannot provide you with a diagnosis and highly recommend you proceed to the ER as you have stated.



  • Question
  • August 8, 2012

Greetings Doctors, My concern is that when I walk on my left foot, it feels like there is a lump on the ball. It's very painful. It is less painful with supportive shoes but I cannot walk barefoot or wear sandals. I am overweight. Can you help? Thank you so very much, Andrea Lawrence

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Included in the differential diagnosis is capsulitis of the metatarsal phalangeal joints as well as a stress fracture. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. Included in the differential diagnosis is capsulitis of the metatarsal phalangeal joints as well as a stress fracture. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 8, 2012

Greetings Doctors, My concern is that when I walk on my left foot, it feels like there is a lump on the ball. It's very painful. It is less painful with supportive shoes but I cannot walk barefoot or wear sandals. I am overweight. Can you help? Thank you so very much, Andrea Lawrence

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Included in the differential diagnosis is capsulitis of the metatarsal phalangeal joints as well as a stress fracture. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. Included in the differential diagnosis is capsulitis of the metatarsal phalangeal joints as well as a stress fracture. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 10, 2012

I woke up 2 weeks ago with a knot on my right ankle with lots of pain and swelling. I thought it would just go away but it seems to be getting worse. I didn't injure my ankle so what could this be.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your ankle or a soft tissue mass/ganglion cyst that is compressing a sensory nerve. You may try ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • August 11, 2012

hi ive got small lumps in the bottom of my legs n there are worse when i bend down but dont hurt

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have varicose veins. I would recommend you follow-up with a vascular surgeon if they become painful.



  • Question
  • August 12, 2012

Ok, So i went swimming yesterday for a while and the pool in rough concreate. Well, when i got out a noticed one red circle on each of my toes!, well they didnt hurt when i was swimmimg but now i can bearly walk the right why because of this! i put aloe and A&D on it but it burned bad. whats going on? and what can i do to make it stop hurting?

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you developed a blisters that opened and now you have raw new skin. I would recommend that you apply triple anti-biotic ointment and cover them with a band-aid.



  • Question
  • August 1, 2012

Hello, my names Jessica. I'm in Corolla, North Carolina right now and about one or two days ago I was in the ocean and I stepped on something. I looked and a little part near my toe was bleeding and then I saw something black under my skin in my other toe, my friends mom thought it might've been a splinter and she tried to get it out but it seemed like nothing was there. So she covered it up and the next day my toe was swollen and pink and it hurt to walk on or even when someone touched it. My friends mom tried to see if anything was there but still couldn't see anything. She put Salve on it an then later I soaked my toe in Hydrogen Poroxcide it was bubbling in the spot where she was poking at. We don't know if we should leave it alone and my body would eventually heal it or if we should go to the hospital... Its still hurting, throbbing, swollen, and red so please help.

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you may have stepped on a sea urchin spine. I would highly recommend you seek medical treatment with a local foot specialist as you may be developing an infection.



  • Question
  • August 1, 2012

Hello, my names Jessica. I'm in Corolla, North Carolina right now and about one or two days ago I was in the ocean and I stepped on something. I looked and a little part near my toe was bleeding and then I saw something black under my skin in my other toe, my friends mom thought it might've been a splinter and she tried to get it out but it seemed like nothing was there. So she covered it up and the next day my toe was swollen and pink and it hurt to walk on or even when someone touched it. My friends mom tried to see if anything was there but still couldn't see anything. She put Salve on it an then later I soaked my toe in Hydrogen Poroxcide it was bubbling in the spot where she was poking at. We don't know if we should leave it alone and my body would eventually heal it or if we should go to the hospital... Its still hurting, throbbing, swollen, and red so please help.

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds as though you may have stepped on a sea urchin spine. I would highly recommend you seek medical treatment with a local foot specialist as you may be developing an infection.



  • Question
  • July 31, 2012

hi there i have 5 ring looking on my big toe please told me what it is

  • Answer

If the 5 rings are blue black green and red then it is Olympic toe syndrome otherwise I can not be certain.



  • Question
  • July 30, 2012

I am a healthy middle aged woman who gets these "little stones" that grow on both balls of my feet. When they get to the size of a pin head, they cause minor irritation and discomfort when walking. I remove the little bugger(s) that cause the problem and all is fine. In a few weeks/month another reaches "maturity" and I repeat the process. There are about three or four growing on each foot. I very rarely walk around barefoot so as to create more cushion for my feet. Are these anything to worry about and what "steps" can I take to reduce their growth and/or existence? They appear just below the surface of the skin and are easy to remove.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • July 28, 2012

Hi Drs, My 5 year old son have a constant pain between his first and second toe when he is sleep. Could it be Morton's Neuroma or something else and what could the solution be? Thanks

  • Answer

Based on your description, this is most likely growing pains that should be self limited. OTC anti-inflammatory medication can help with the discomfort at night.



  • Question
  • July 24, 2012

Good Afternoon, I feel like I have a blister on the bottom (ball) of my foot but there is nothing there. Can you advise what may be causing this sensation?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your heel spur. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • July 20, 2012

Hi drs. About two yes ago I had a lump under the joint of my big toe. It was a sudden onset and was very painful. Within hours I had a big bruise so I figured I just injured it walking outside without shooed. A few months later it happened again so I went to a podiatrist. He was unsure what it was as he found nothing on exam, it healed quickly and intotally forgot about it until last night. I came home from a long day atnwork and my other foot was sore. When I rubbed the bottom, I felt a small bump under the ball of my foot, in the center. I put some ice in it and went to bed. When I woke up this morning, the bump was gone and there was a bruise in it's place. It does not really hurt unless I press on it. I had blood work about two months ago..fasting glucose was 72 and a1c was 5.2 so it is not diabetes. What could it be. Very annoying. The podiatrist I went to last time said that because the lump was gone and only the small bruise was there he did not really have a dx, I would never be able to make it to the dr with the bump because it becomes a bruise relatively quickly. What could this be?

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you follow-up with your podiatrist and have an MRI done when the bump is present as it sounds like you have a soft tissue lesion.



  • Question
  • July 20, 2012

I was diagnosed today with a stress fracture. I had to walk on it today. Now I have a squishy scrubbing bone feeling where my stress fracture is. Is this normal?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. I would highly recommend you see the physician who diagnosed you with the stress fracture as now you may have a complete fracture.



  • Question
  • July 17, 2012

my toenails. are thick and seem to grow. down wards. cause-n so much pain and they have like white hard skin like stuff growing under connecting the middle part of the toenail to my toe causing pain and discomfort.and kinda. discolored

  • Answer

Although there are many different nail disorders that can cause the symptoms that you describe, By far the most common is onycomycosis. Onycomycosis is an infection of the nail and the nail bed caused by fungus. Although it is quite easy to eliminate most fungal infections from the skin, such as athletes foot or ringworm, It is quite difficult to eliminate the fungus from the nail. As a general rule the success of over the counter remedies is low for this condition. Treatment of onycomycosis can range from oral anti-fungal medication (very effective and inexpensive) or laser treatment (fairly effective but expensive) to topical medications which are often ineffective. Popular home remedies such as vicks vapor rub may improve the appearance of the nail for some, but I have not seen good long term results reported. Other causes of these symptoms can include Psoriasis, trauma to the nail matrix ( from a crushing injury or even chronic use of tight shoes) rare inherited conditions, lesions under the nail ( including skin cancers) or other types of infection. definitive diagnosis is made from pathology exam of portion of the nail but most often can be determined by physical exam.



  • Question
  • July 7, 2012

when i push on the ball of my left foot, a bone or muscle protrudes from the top of my foot, between the big toe and long toe. There is no pain involved but I am a walker and this concerns me. In the morning it seem to pop when i push on it then the poping goes away but the protrusion continues. Any idea what this is and is it safe to continue walking 3 1/2 to 4 miles every morning

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a pre-dislocation syndrome which is a disruption of the plantar plate (a ligament that attaches a the metatarsal heads together on the ball of the foot). This can lead to inflammation of the metatarsal phalangeal joint as the joint becomes more dislocated. As you describe there being no pain at this time you can watch this closely but I would recommend you have an evaluation in the future. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • July 5, 2012

I have a sore on the side of my left 4th toe. It looks like a bee sting but I'm pretty sure it's not a bee sting i would remember it doesn't hurt unless I press on it but I don't know of I should be very concerned and go see my doctor! Please help!!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a insect bite or ulceration which puts you at risk for an infection. I would recommend you seek medical evaluation immediately. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • July 2, 2012

My left foot has been swollen for over a year now. The lower part of the front of my leg and foot are very sensitive to the touch and I get very sharp pains in my foot off and on. It tends to swell more when I'm standing or sitting(such as in the car) for long periods. My veins on the top of my foot get enlarged also when this happens. I had blood clots after the birth of my first child 37yrs ago, in my leg and lungs and have had nothing but trouble with my left leg every since, such as, pain,tingling and numbness and now with my foot. I worry about it being a blood clot. What do you think this could be??

  • Answer

There a many things that can cause these symptoms, but if the pain and swelling are isolated to a single foot/ leg then the most likely problem is Post-thrombotic syndrome. This is the long term consequences of a clot in the deep veins of the legs ( DVT). It is estimated that more then half of individuals that have DVT will develop PTS. Typically the onset of PTS is much less then 37 years, but early symptoms such as painless swelling may be dismissed as normal. Treatment can range from elevation and compression to lymphedema therapy and various compression pumps. other the PTS, a new clot is possible and if this is thought to be at all possible a venous ultrasound should be ordered. These symptoms can also be caused by simple varicose veins, nerve entrapment, Pelvic masses ( benign or malignant), and a host of other causes. because some of the causes of these symptoms can be catastrophic if not treated it is best to see a physician to have this evaluated. Equally compelling, these symptoms may be easily treated if a definitive cause is found. I hope this helps.



  • Question
  • July 2, 2012

My left foot has been swollen for over a year now. The lower part of the front of my leg and foot are very sensitive to the touch and I get very sharp pains in my foot off and on. It tends to swell more when I'm standing or sitting(such as in the car) for long periods. My veins on the top of my foot get enlarged also when this happens. I had blood clots after the birth of my first child 37yrs ago, in my leg and lungs and have had nothing but trouble with my left leg every since, such as, pain,tingling and numbness and now with my foot. I worry about it being a blood clot. What do you think this could be??

  • Answer

There a many things that can cause these symptoms, but if the pain and swelling are isolated to a single foot/ leg then the most likely problem is Post-thrombotic syndrome. This is the long term consequences of a clot in the deep veins of the legs ( DVT). It is estimated that more then half of individuals that have DVT will develop PTS. Typically the onset of PTS is much less then 37 years, but early symptoms such as painless swelling may be dismissed as normal. Treatment can range from elevation and compression to lymphedema therapy and various compression pumps. other the PTS, a new clot is possible and if this is thought to be at all possible a venous ultrasound should be ordered. These symptoms can also be caused by simple varicose veins, nerve entrapment, Pelvic masses ( benign or malignant), and a host of other causes. because some of the causes of these symptoms can be catastrophic if not treated it is best to see a physician to have this evaluated. Equally compelling, these symptoms may be easily treated if a definitive cause is found. I hope this helps.



  • Question
  • June 27, 2012

Three months ago, I was diagnosed with a metatarsal cuneiform spur on both my feet (from constantly wearing ill fitting strapped sandals - long story!). Since then, I have been wearing orthotics which have helped some structural problems in my foot but I still get issues with the bony prominence rubbing on my shoe. I even pad my shoes with no luck. I have been thinking of a surgical treatment. The condition isn't SO bad (did X-ray and MRI and it shows no arthritis, no lesions and I don't really get much nerve compression unless it's pushed up hard against the shoe) that I am agonizing pain but it is definitely an annoyance. Reading the internet, I have become scared of stories involving 'fusions'. What are these and are they commonly performed on people with cuneiform exostosis? I was under the impression the surgical treatment is simply shaving down the spur, but searching the net has made me very scared to even ask my podiatrist. Any knowledge and clarification would be greatly appreciated!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your diagnosis, it sounds as though you may benefit from resection of the osteophytes (spurs) as you are still having discomfort despite conservative therapy. Fusions or athrodesis is a surgical procedure that involves removing a joint and joining the bones together. This has more complications associated with it. I would recommend you discuss your options with your physician.



  • Question
  • June 28, 2012

I just noticed a small bump on the bottom if my foot, not painfu a little of the color of my skin a bit pink and mushy to the touch what is it ?

  • Answer

Unfortunately based on your description one cannot determine a differential diagnosis without a physical examination. Generally speaking masses on the bottom of the foot can range from plantar fibromas to ganglion cysts. The lesions are nodular and feel like a lump on the bottom of the foot. They can become symptomatic when they are irritated from weight bearing. There are many other masses that could present like this but they are far less common. Self treatment for either of these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. Seldom we expect to see these masses to spontaneously resolve. Professional evaluation is recommended. Surgical excision is often required for resolution when these masses are painful. Definitive diagnosis can only be made by biopsy of the mass.



  • Question
  • June 27, 2012

i have a lump on the bottom part of my foot(the bridge area) it doesnt hurt when i walk but it does hurt when i touch it. i notice its getting bigger. is this something for me to be concern about?

  • Answer

Unfortunately based on your description one cannot determine a differential diagnosis without a physical examination. Generally speaking masses on the bottom of the foot can range from plantar fibromas to ganglion cysts. The lesions are nodular and feel like a lump on the bottom of the foot. They can become symptomatic when they are irritated from weight bearing. There are many other masses that could present like this but they are far less common. Self treatment for either of these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. Seldom we expect to see these masses to spontaneously resolve. Professional evaluation is recommended. Surgical excision is often required for resolution when these masses are painful. Definitive diagnosis can only be made by biopsy of the mass.



  • Question
  • June 26, 2012

I have pain in the ball of my foot that feels like a really bad stone bruise ans somerimes it seems hot. Along with that pain, my second toe has now started to cross over my big toe. When I walk it feels like I have a small twig between the two toes that streches onto the ball of the foot. Could this be a neuroma or do you think it is more related to arthritis? I am a white female 63 years old. Thanks for your help.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your second metatarsal phalangeal joint. As you describe your 2nd toe crossing over the big toe is usually associated with a bunion deformity of the great toe joint that causes the 2nd toe to become dislocated at the metatarsal phalangeal joint. You can have an isolated crossover deformity of the 2nd toe that is related to a past trauma. The discomfort you have is related to inflammation of the joint and is treated with ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • June 19, 2012

So my big toe on my right foot has the feeling it needs to be popped. It's been this way for about 2 months.. it aches when I walk on it for a long time and when I bend it..what could be wrong?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this sounds like you have Hallux Limitus, although these symptoms can be associated with other pathologies such as trigger toe. This deformity of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint which over time causes a decreased ROM of the joint from deposition of calcium around the joint and degeneration of the cartilage in that joint. Conservative treatment options include use of a rigid shank shoe, orthotics, ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you can tolerate them. If you fail to have relief with these treatments surgical intervention may be warranted. I would recommend an evaluation with an x-ray to determine the severity of the arthritis as delayed treatment decreases the options available. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • June 12, 2012

I went tubing in a river this weekend and got cuts on my feet and toes. now my feet are swollen and painful to walk on and my hot to the touch.. what do i do?

  • Answer

Based on your question, I would recommend you seek medical treatment at an urgent care center or emergency room immediately as it is not appropriate to diagnose infections over the internet. Any infection can have serious and long lasting consequences.



  • Question
  • June 12, 2012

I have 2 red beet red bumps on my toes. 1 is on the first largest toe that is very big and swollen. The 2nd to the last toe has a tiny one but still very irritated. I always have then after I go swimming . I love swimming so I go all the time , but I dont want it to effect my swimming life ... Please help! It hurts to walk..... Please help!xx!!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have inflammation of your joints that is triggered by your swimming routine. You can try using ice on the area and possible use of swim shoe. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • June 7, 2012

i have a small little lump on the right side of my foot on the toe side it is hard when i touch it and i noticed it this morning

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass. Treatment includes ice, alteration of shoe gear and aspiration of the lesion. Sometimes surgical excision is required. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • June 2, 2012

Dr. Perrone and Goggin I was sitting down today and my feet became very itchy for no reason, so i put some non itch cream on them and the itching went away but when i got up to walk it felt as if there were bumps on the bottom of my feet, when i looked there was nothing there and when i felt where the weird bump was there was nothing there it was just a little hard. Could it be an allergic reaction to something or just something strange? Thanks

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are consistent with peripheral neuropathy and/or nerve entrapment. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, tingling, itchiness, and burning of the lower extremities. There are several causes of peripheral neuropathy including diabetes, lower back problems, poor circulation and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment involves identifying the underlying pathology. Once this is identified a treatment plan can be made.



  • Question
  • June 2, 2012

Dr. Perrone and Goggin I was sitting down today and my feet became very itchy for no reason, so i put some non itch cream on them and the itching went away but when i got up to walk it felt as if there were bumps on the bottom of my feet, when i looked there was nothing there and when i felt where the weird bump was there was nothing there it was just a little hard. Could it be an allergic reaction to something or just something strange? Thanks

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are consistent with peripheral neuropathy and/or nerve entrapment. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, tingling, itchiness, and burning of the lower extremities. There are several causes of peripheral neuropathy including diabetes, lower back problems, poor circulation and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment involves identifying the underlying pathology. Once this is identified a treatment plan can be made



  • Question
  • June 2, 2012

Dr. Perrone and Goggin I was sitting down today and my feet became very itchy for no reason, so i put some non itch cream on them and the itching went away but when i got up to walk it felt as if there were bumps on the bottom of my feet, when i looked there was nothing there and when i felt where the weird bump was there was nothing there it was just a little hard. Could it be an allergic reaction to something or just something strange? Thanks

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are consistent with peripheral neuropathy and/or nerve entrapment. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, tingling, itchiness, and burning of the lower extremities. There are several causes of peripheral neuropathy including diabetes, lower back problems, poor circulation and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment involves identifying the underlying pathology. Once this is identified a treatment plan can be made



  • Question
  • June 1, 2012

Dear Drs. Perrone and Goggin: I periodically get pain in my feet just under the big toes. This makes it very uncomfortable to walk. Is this an indication that a certain part of my body is not well? If so, which part? Yours truly, D.G.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your first metatarsal phalangeal joint and most likely your sesamoids (these are 2 small bones that are under your big toe joint). You may want to see when this area is painful in correlation to what activities you are doing and what shoe gear you are using. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • June 1, 2012

Dear Drs. Perrone and Goggin: I periodically get pain in my feet just under the big toes. This makes it very uncomfortable to walk. Is this an indication that a certain part of my body is not well? If so, which part? Yours truly, D.G.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your first metatarsal phalangeal joint and most likely your sesamoids (these are 2 small bones that are under your big toe joint). You may want to see when this area is painful in correlation to what activities you are doing and what shoe gear you are using. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • May 25, 2012

In 1987, I chipped a piece of bone out of my r little toe. I had lots of problems and was diagnosed with RSD. Bone chip was not removed, causes chronic pain, it has fused 2 of my joints together. It sticks out where the joints are fused together on the outside of my toe. A few years later I dislocated the fused joint, so now the joint is not stable, it snapps out of place all of the time. The Sural nerve also causes chronic pain going down the outside of my foot from the fused joint to below my ankle and around into my heel. I KNOW if someone would take the bone spur off the side of my little toe and stablize it would heldp so... much! My podiatrist will only give me injections, because of the RSD. I need someone to help me!

  • Answer

This is a very unfortunate situation, and although the specifics very from patient to patient it is not uncommon to find a patient in your position after the diagnosis of RSD ( or to be more consistent with current terminology CRPS ). The medical literature is very sparse to say the least when it comes to surgery on individuals with this condition and what is out there generally cautions against any surgery that is not to prevent eminent loss of life. Because of this lack of support for surgical intervention, even if you were to find a physician that was in agreement with you that surgery may help, he would not be likely to preform the surgery. It is a sad fact that with our current system, a physician can not always exercise his best judgement even when the affected patient makes a well educated decision to concur with him. The danger of future litigation in the event that the desired outcome is not achieved is to high. You may be able to find a willing surgeon in a state with more advanced tort reform, but unfortunately a surgeon that operates in the circumstances you describe in Florida puts his livelihood at great risk.



  • Question
  • May 25, 2012

several weeks ago I tripped and had a badly sprained a knee and hand. Pain, swelling, black and blue now gone but the hand where the knuckle is on the little finger purtruses out. no pain. am i in trouble?

  • Answer

Unfortunately I do not treat hands or knees. With that being said, it sounds like you have a dislocation and would recommend you see a orthopedic hand specialist as soon as possible.



  • Question
  • May 15, 2012

i cut my big toe and went swimming in the river the next day now my whole toe is red and my foot feels hot what kind of infection do i have

  • Answer

Based on your question, I would recommend you seek medical treatment at an urgent care center or emergency room immediately as it is not appropriate to diagnose infections over the internet. Any infection can have serious and long lasting consequences.



  • Question
  • April 28, 2012

Hello. I am in AIT in Fort Lee.. Training. So we run a lot and for long distances, and we are constantly moving. I started to have a soreness on my right foot, near the outside edge just below my little toe. It hurt only sometimes. Like if i leave socks on when i go to sleep, i will wake up from the pain of my foot in the middle of the night. Some days are worse than others, if i cross my feet to sit "indian style" it doesnt hurt, until i move it. then it almost burns? This started about a week, two weeks ago. but just yesterday i noticed that there is a lump just under my little toe on the outer edge, when i put my shoes on it was always sore.. but now with that pump there it puts so much pressure on it that it hurts. What could this be?

  • Answer

There are many things that can present as you describe. These can range from skin lesions such as warts and callus, or even skin cancers, to deeper lesions such as granulomas ,cysts. or even foreign bodies such as glass, slivers etc. The fact that the it burns could indicate an irritation of the sural nerve which is in this area. it is also entirely possible that you have a common deformity called a tailors bunion and an associated bursitis. Most of these things are easily treated. As you are at a large military base you should be able to seek medical care. I know that the navy has podiatrists at their medical facilities and assume the army does as well, but if they should have an orthopedist or even general practice doctor or well trained medic that can help you.



  • Question
  • April 28, 2012

I am 33 yo male with a history of gout. I have a dime size bump on the ball of my foot under the pinky toe. The area is red, tender, swollen and very painful. It hurts constantly but really hurts to touch it or walk on it. I'm not sure if it's a new gout symptom or something else. My gout has never presented like this before that's why I think it's something different. It's not hard but soft if I push on it it turns white. It's not blister or pimple like. It's been like this for three days and any help you can give will be greatly appreciated.

  • Answer

There are many things that can present as you describe. These can range from skin lesions such as warts and callus, or even skin cancers, to deeper lesions such as granulomas ,cysts. or even foreign bodies such as glass, slivers etc. The fact that it blanches white and is red and swollen combined with a know diagnosis of gout raises the concern that this could be a tophus. Tophi are deposits of uric acid crystals outside of joints. If this is indeed the case you need to have this evaluated and treated as soon as possible. Once tohi start to form they can form in other areas. They can be quite painful and lead to disability. Individuals with recurrent or tophaceous gout need to have there uric acid lowered with medication to stop formation of tophi, allow resorption of existing tophi, reduce the frequency of gout attacks and prevent uric acid kidney stones. Unfortunately diet alone is seldom effective at lowering uric acid enough in patients that make tophi. As you are 33 I assume you take few if any Rx medications, but if this assumption is not true also consider that some common medications can raise uric acid.



  • Question
  • April 29, 2012

last week I walked seven miles in flip-flops. Since then I have been having swelling and pain in my left foot. the pain is constant but is worse once weight has been applied.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have stress fracture of a metatarsal. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • April 28, 2012

my question is my feet at the balls of the kind of get a throbbing pain and then it is like my toes are trying to curl, or seperate not sure if that makes sense but it is rahter painful, and lasts anywhere from five minutes to 25 minutes can you please help me

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. Also be sure that you are staying well hydrated. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • April 3, 2012

Had Spinal Fusion Surgery 1 yr ago ....Woke up after surgery with extreme footpain (bi-lateral) but mostly left...Pain under big toes ..felt like i am walking on an orange under my toes ..Have some arthritis in my big toes ...but the burning ..stabbing ..walking on "oranges" continues...Was diagnosed with neuropathy which I agreed with ,mabe 50%....Could this other pain (mainly under the balls of my feet) be something else?...Stories of neuropathy are usually burning pain but not the "swelling" feeling under my toes....& it is really painful....?

  • Answer

Unfortunately, It sounds like this most likely is neuropathy. Specifically a form of neuropathy often referred to as radiculopathy. Radiculopathy is altered sensation ( and or motor and autonomic function) that is related to compression of a specific peripheral nerve(s) or nerve root(s). In your case with a history of back problems the nerve roots are probably the cause. You did not mention the level(s) of your spinal fusion, but the great toe is innervated by the L4 and L5 spinal nerves. More distal compression such as in the tarsal tunnel is also possible, but most often would be expected to involve more then one toe and is seldom bilateral. As for your symptoms, The sensation of swelling or fullness is a very common presentation of neuropathy. I must admit that the feeling of "an orange" under the toes is a new description I often hear " a sock, cotton, a golf ball, a rock, a sponge" so I would have to say that your symptoms are consistent with what others experience. Finally as for treatment -- In our practice we often obtain nerve conduction velocities to rule out any specific easily treated causes such as tarsal tunnel syndrome if clinically warranted. Once the diagnosis and cause of the neuropathy is determined any modifiable causes are corrected-- control diabetes in diabetic neuropathy, stop alcohol in alcoholic neuropathy, replace B12, folate B1 etc in nutritional neuropathies such as Beriberi etc. once this is done or deemed unnecessary symptoms are treated with pharmaceuticals, but NOT opiates. Your back surgeon may be able to help you with an implantable nerve stimulator, these are fairly new devices that suppress pain via an implanted device that operates somewhat like a pacemaker, and are inserted via a generally minor procedure, and can often be tried before final implantation. Finally some find that self treatment with nerve stimulator such as TENS units is helpful. Others find eastern medicine such as acupuncture helpful, low intensity lasers have also been used, but none of these have been proven helpful in large double blind studies like we have for medications. Hope this helps if we can be of further assistance please feel free to contact our office for an appointment 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • April 2, 2012

I fractured the 4th digit of my right foot years ago. I do not think it held properly. Recently after wearing heels the area began to hurt again. I now notice I have pain in the area radiating to my ankle and have trouble walking bearing weight on this foot. Can I do anything about this?

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This may or may not be releated to your fractured toe, as this cannot be determined without an x-ray. A neuroma is a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your heel spur. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • March 8, 2012

hello, i have bony lumps on the back of my heels which i believe is Haglunds Deformity!! I am only 16 and they are so ugly it makes me really self conscious and upset. I have tried apple cider vinegar and am taking Calcium with Magnesium and Vit.D3 as i have heard that both get rid of it but I'm having no luck!! I don't want to go through the awful recovery after surgery as i'm not in any pain I just want to not be embarrassed by my feet! any suggestions?

  • Answer

Based on your description this is most likely a Haglund's deformity. Haglund's deformity is a bony prominence on the back of the heel. A tight shoe or a rigid heel counter common on most dress shoes causes irritation of the skin over this bone spur irritating the Achilles insertion. Over time this often leads to the formation of a bursa (a fluid filled sack) between the skin and the bone. This makes the area even more prominent and just makes the problem worse. If the pain is more central this may be a retrocalcaneal exostosis a similar problem due to calcification within the Achilles tendon. Self- treatment for these conditions is ice, avoidance of impact activities, shoe gear (soft heel counter or open back shoe), no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. If the problem is only with the occasional use of dress shoes, a silicone pad placed between your skin and sock often can provide good relief. For some individuals long term relief is best achieved by surgical removal of the prominent bone spur. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement with padding, ice, and changes in shoe gear I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 4, 2012

At the end of a long day at work, I noticed a sore spot on the bottom of my right foot. It feels like a small knot located between my second and third toes just as the arch turns into the ball of the foot. It hasn't improved over the past few days. What is this problem? What is the best way to heal it? Thanks so much for your help!

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications, ie wider shoes with a rubber absorptive sole. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 4, 2012

i was in a car accident in dec 2011 and i was pregnant, it fractured both my hip and my pelvis, since then i have unexplained brusing from my hip to my ankle, my knee and hip pop, pain is constantly in my hip and leg, its getting hard for me to both walk and stand for extended periods of time, and the pain will not ease with tylenol,aleive, or ibprofen, its getting to where i cant sleep. what could cause this?

  • Answer

I would recommend you discuss this with obstetrician and orthopedic surgeon as I am a foot and ankle specialist.



  • Question
  • January 4, 2012

I have been having problems with my right foot for 7+ months now. It started off with a little bump like maybe a splinter. I tryed to get it out but there were no splinters. Then it got bigger and painful, like I am walking on a pebble. Now in the past month or two there are several more smaller but painful bumps around the area. My skin feels raised quite a bit which makes it painful to walk at all. It even throbs when I'm not walking on it. Any advice?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 4, 2012

I have been having problems with my right foot for 7+ months now. It started off with a little bump like maybe a splinter. I tryed to get it out but there were no splinters. Then it got bigger and painful, like I am walking on a pebble. Now in the past month or two there are several more smaller but painful bumps around the area. My skin feels raised quite a bit which makes it painful to walk at all. It even throbs when I'm not walking on it. Any advice?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 4, 2012

Hello Doctors! I play soccer and I had a recent injury where I went into a tackle, and immediately after, the top of my left foot would hurt if I stretched it. I rested it for a week and a half and went back to play a game today... Of course some girl went and stepped on exactly where my injury was so I had to be substituted. Now it's worse than before and a bit swollen, it's tender if I apply pressure. However, I can walk almost normally. Any idea what it is? Also I've recently gotten new cleats and the bottom of my right foot cramps( like a stinging sensation) if I play for extended amounts of time. Do you know what's wrong? thanks for your time!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said you may have a contusion and sprain of your midfoot. Treatment includes ice, rest, and mild compression. As for the arch discomfort it may be realeted to you new cleats not providing enough arch support. There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 4, 2012

Hi :) I have had this bump on my foot for maybe 2 months now, at first it didn't hurt so bad, but over these last few weeks it has become increasingly painful and bigger, it used to be reddish/flesh color at first and now its turned white. It hurts the most in the shower for some reason. Sometimes it feels like shooting pain through my foot from the bump. Any help?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass. As the mass gets larger it can irritate the surrounding nerves causing shrap shooting sensations. Treatment includes ice, alteration of shoe gear and aspiration of the lesion. Sometimes surgical excision is required. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 3, 2012

I've had prior surgeries on my feet long ago. All of a sudden I felt like I must have a splinter in my foot, just barefooting the other day. Took a look. It is very sore, on the right outer-ridge below the little toe on the right foot. Had 4 previous operations for bunions, but an auto accident caused the first operation to turn into three more. I know this sounds weird but it looks like a callous, but hurts worse than anything imagined for what it looks to be. Was wondering if this is an underlying undiagnosed condition I am not aware of. Thought it was a splinter, but apparently, looks like some growth or tough callous underneath. I don't know, never felt this before yesterday, It turns yellow when I pinch the site. Not familiar with foot problems, other than bad experiences with bunion removal and while recouping, got in a 4 car accident, called for fixing it, then removing the pin, then cast, cast amd cast and crutches. Haven't been back since. Thank you for any suggestions or advice. I hate when somethhing goes wrong with what I have left of my feet!

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 1, 2012

My boyfriend is a 26 year old male and is having a rather mysterious issue with his foot. He started complaining of it feeling as if he "rolled an ankle" three days ago but no recollection of that ever having taken place. The next day, he woke up to find that there is a patch of skin that is red, right on the side of his foot. It does not hurt to touch, only to put weight on the foot. Today is day three and the red mark appears to have gotten a little bit bigger and the pain is still there. Any ideas as to what can cause this? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

  • Answer

There are many things that can cause this type of symptoms, but the most common in no particular order Cellulitis, a stress fracture, a sprain ( sometimes the injury is trivial and pain is delayed), gout, tendonitis. The description is quite consistent with gout, but only if the pain is quite severe, this can resolve spontaneously, but most often needs to be treated with medication to quickly resolve the pain. Additionally if recurrent it is important to properly diagnose and treat this to prevent long term problems If the pain is mild to moderate I would consider cellulitis ( a skin infection) to be likely -- this would require antibiotics to treat and if the redness is getting worse he needs to be seen by his doctor for a prescription. If fever or chills develop this would warrant a trip to urgent care or ED. If there is faint bruising noticed this could be a stress fracture but the lack of tenderness with palpation argues against this, but often it is not obvious where to press to reproduce the pain. Stress fractures require rest and immobilization. Most other causes of these symptoms such as tendonitis respond to rest, ice compression and medications such as Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium. ( OTC used as directed not to be used if GI, liver or kidney problems.)



  • Question
  • January 2, 2012

I stepped on a very small piece of glass that embedded itself into the bottom of my foot by my toes. I tried as much as could to get it out when it first happened but was unsuccessful. I have a type of callus on the bottom of my foot in this area now & it hurts when I walk on it. Sometimes the pain radiates toward my pinky toe when I am sitting & have to rub a pain cream on it. I don't have insurance, unsure of where to go for help for this issue & can't afford the clinic prices in my area. I try to keep it clean but afraid it's going to get worse. Can you help me please?

  • Answer

When foreign material is imbedded in our body the main problems that are encountered are infection and irritation of local structures. The bottom of the foot and toes is particularly at risk for chronic irritation due to the pressure and friction of walking on the area. Our body responds to this irritation by trying to surround the object with soft tissue ( granuloma ). in the absence of infection this granuloma often becomes a painless bump under the skin with time, but unfortunately can at times the area becomes even more painful. when this happens removal of the foreign material and the surrounding granuloma is often needed to relive symptoms. This is not a do it yourself project. The question implies that there has been a fair amout of time that has passed since the inital injury so infection is less likely however it is important to mention that infections associated with foreign material almost always require removal of the foreign material. Finally especially in the case of glass it is quite common that the glass will cut the skin and immediately fall out, but the resulting scar tissue can be thick and painful, in this case the scar can be removed or injected with steroids to eliminate the pain, once again not a do it yourself project. Have you checked for free clinics in your area, or checked with the local health department you may be able to get free of discounted care. Often this problem can be treated in the office, and is not extremely costly, other times a trip to the OR is needed and this is of course quite expensive. If you are local you can call our office at 772-461-4400 if you are not in our area you may also want to check with podiatrists in your area and see if they offer payment plans and or reduced fees for self pay. If they take medicaid ask if they will see you for medicaid rates ( often much less then usual fee schedule)? We make these types of arrangements frequently--- It can't hurt to ask



  • Question
  • January 2, 2012

It started with a bump on the back of my ankle, then a small bump on the hand, but it has got bigger and redder, i don't think it growing no more but now i have a 3rd bump on my foot! and i found a small bump on my finger but i don't know if that's just something normal or its to go along with the other bumps.i have no clue what they are but im scared to find out.Please help.

  • Answer

Unfortunately, the description you give is not sufficient to even venture an educated guess as to what this could be. Masses , tumors and similar lesions can be caused by a whole host of problems. I would suggest that you see your physician, with a complete history and physical exam of the lesions a diagnosis can often be made, but often even when carefully examined a biopsy is required to reach a diagnosis I'm sorry I can not be of further assistance with this.



  • Question
  • January 3, 2012

Hi, I hope you can help, i have a feeling under my big toe, as though a stone is in my shoe under that toe all the time (even when barefoot). I run frequently and cover lots of disstance. I have no serious callouses or hard skin on the toe and it is under the joint directly behind the nail bed. Any thoughts? Regards Andrew

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have a accessory bone at the big toe joint that can cause irritation with barefoot ambulation. A diagnosis cannot be made without an examination and x-rays. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • January 3, 2012

HELLO, WELL I HAVE A CLIENT,I BEEN WITH HIM FOR 3 YRS AND I AM SO WORRIED ABOUT HIS PAIN IN HIS LEGS, FEET ,AND TOES IT B VERY SEVERE HE TELLS ME. I TOOK HIM TO C A DOCTOR THEY TOLD HIM TO TAKE PAIN MEDS BUT THAT'S NOT HELPING TRYING TO C IF U HAVE A BETTER ANSWER WHAT DO U THINK IT IS? P.S. THE SOFEST TOUCH HURTS HIM PLEASE HELP ME PLEASE.

  • Answer

From your description, these symptoms are most likely associated with peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. I would recommend that you be discuss this with your physician as there are several treatment options for peripheral neuropathy. Ultimately many specialists are often involved in the treatment of these problems.



  • Question
  • January 2, 2012

Hi Drs! I really appreciate you taking the time to read and answer this! My husband has been having severe pain in his feet and I do my best to massage them but it only offers him slight relief. The area of concern is on the bottom of his heel and arch area. It looks swollen and feels mushy to the touch. He is on his feet all day and is overweight. He has started to walk on the outside of his feet to relieve some of the pain/pressure. Any advice would be much appreciated!

  • Answer

There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 31, 2011

I have an irritation on the outside of my foot by the little toe. In the past it has felt like a nail in my boot. I then dug a tiny object out of my foot the size of a pin head. Is there a name for these stone like things,and is there cause for their occurence?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion.



  • Question
  • December 30, 2011

First off thanks for all the wonderful advice! I'm a 46 year old male, for a few years I have felt slight discomfort in my right big toe after playing sports, a few years later the joint of the toe looks like it might be a bit bigger and still hurts, but does not get red or swollen? It does hurt after running. Now I'm starting to get that same feeling in my left toe, feels like it is stiff and needs to pop? My buddy just scared me to death. He says this is probably a reoccurring gout that has been going on for years and it may indicate that I have bad kidneys! I just freaked out!! My Mom had bunions, could this just be something smaller than kidneys failing!! Thanks!

  • Answer

Based on your description, this sounds like you have Hallux Limitus, although these symptoms can be associated with other pathologies such as trigger toe. This deformity of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint which over time causes a decreased ROM of the joint from deposition of calcium around the joint and degeneration of the cartilage in that joint. Conservative treatment options include use of a rigid shank shoe, orthotics, ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you can tolerate them. If you fail to have relief with these treatments surgical intervention may be warranted. I would recommend an evaluation with an x-ray to determine the severity of the arthritis as delayed treatment decreases the options available. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 30, 2011

I have a hard bump that feels like a bone on the back upper right of my right heel. I noticed it a couple weeks, maybe months ago. It doesn't really hurt but concerns me as I am a dancer. What could it be?

  • Answer

Based on your description this is most likely a Haglund's deformity. Haglund's deformity is a bony prominence on the back of the heel. A tight shoe or a rigid heel counter common on most dress shoes causes irritation of the skin over this bone spur irritating the Achilles insertion. Over time this often leads to the formation of a bursa (a fluid filled sack) between the skin and the bone. This makes the area even more prominent and just makes the problem worse. If the pain is more central this may be a retrocalcaneal exostosis a similar problem due to calcification within the Achilles tendon. Self- treatment for these conditions is ice, avoidance of impact activities, shoe gear (soft heel counter or open back shoe), no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. If the problem is only with the occasional use of dress shoes, a silicone pad placed between your skin and sock often can provide good relief. For some individuals long term relief is best achieved by surgical removal of the prominent bone spur. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement with padding, ice, and changes in shoe gear I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 28, 2011

For the last 4 days my feet have been aching, it all started with my right ankle, I woke up in the morning and my ankle was swollen and had flat red marks on it. The red marks feel like bruises when touched. The following day the red (bruises?) spread up my right leg to my knee, they are spread out and all of them are the size of a quarter and hurt. Yesterday (day 3) the bottom of my right foot in the center of the foot felt like it was bruised as well, along with the left ankle begining to hurt. I awoke today (day 4) and I am having a hard time bearing weight on my right foot without alot of pain in my ankle, and my left foot on the bottom hurts as well. Also the red spots are now on my left foot and shin as well. I have no recent injury to my feet, I dont know whats going on or if I should see a doctor.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you see a physician immediately as your description sounds like cellulitis which is a soft tissue infection requiring antibiotics.



  • Question
  • December 28, 2011

For the past 6 mos. when I wear shoes my little toe on the left foot always hurts....and it starts to burn...what can I do?

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your 5th toe. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive wider shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 28, 2011

Hello, I seem to have quite a large bump on the top of my foot that looks quite like a saddle bone deformity / met cuneiform exostosis. It is causing me great pain and numbness in my first 2 toes. When I touch these two toes - I do not have full sensation in them and it feels like thousands of hot needles on the surface. The bump on my foot is painful all the time, whether I have shoes on or none at all. I find it difficult to walk and when it starts hurting the most - I wake up most nights in pain with my foot. Do you have any clue of what this could be? Thankyou

  • Answer

Based on your description, you are having irritation of the superficial peroneal nerve of that is causing the pain and irritation of your 1st and 2nd toes. I would recommend you use ice on your midfoot area and alter you shoe laces to avoid pressure on this area. If this does not help over the course of a week I would recommend you have an exam and x-rays. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 28, 2011

I am a 67 year old male who was diagnosed with plantar fibromas about 6 or 7 years ago. I have not had specific treatment for them. To a greater or lesser extent I have had some pain and tingling in my feet. However recently the tingling and pain has become more extensive. I am having NVC and EMG tests done 12/29. A recent blood test indicated a FPG of 98 and an A1C of 6.2. Although diabetes does not run in my family, I have taken steps to substantially modify my diet and exercise. I am 5'8 and 175 lbs. Can you provide any thoughts?

  • Answer

Generally speaking masses on the bottom of the foot can range from plantar fibromas to ganglion cysts. The lesions are nodular and feel like a lump on the bottom of the foot. They can become symptomatic when they are irritated from weight bearing. There are many other masses that could present like this but they are far less common. Self treatment for either of these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. Seldom we expect to see these masses to spontaneously resolve. Professional evaluation is recommended. Surgical excision is often required for resolution when these masses are painful. Definitive diagnosis can only be made by biopsy of the mass. From your description, these symptoms are consistent with peripheral neuropathy and/or nerve entrapment. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, and burning of the lower extremities. There are several causes of peripheral neuropathy including diabetes, lower back problems, poor circulation and tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment involves identifying the underlying pathology. Once this is identified a treatment plan can be made.



  • Question
  • December 26, 2011

Hello, Dr. For the last 2 mos. Both of my feet have been very sensitive to touch. In the morning it is very difficult to stand. It feels like i am walking on sharp rocks. I have been told I only have a viral infection. But is there such a thing as a viral infection in the bottom of my feet? if so how long does it last?. I am concerned if it might be more serious thank you, Brandon

  • Answer

Based on your description, there are certain viruses that can cause neuritis/neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. I would recommend that you be discuss this with your physician who diagnosed you with the viral infection.



  • Question
  • December 25, 2011

For about 1 and a half weeks now i have been on winter break and i like to surf the web on my laptop. I sit in the same position for about 10 hours a day, then 2 days ago i started to notice i had some aches on my joints of my toes when i squeeze them. i tried to message the joints but they hurt so bad i could barely do it. is this poor circulation of my blood, another fact is that not all of the toes are in pain just some on 1 side and some on the other, also my pinkie on y hand hurts the exact same way

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. I would recommend you not sit for extended period of time as this can cause nerve irritation of your lower back that can cause nerve symptoms in your feet. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 24, 2011

hi , i jammed my big toe and under my toe nail it like purple i can barly walk on it , i ice it down every now and then but it still hurt .

  • Answer

Based on your description, you most likely have a sub-ungual hematoma. If this involves over 25% of the nail plate removal of the nail plate is recommended. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 24, 2011

For about 1 and a half weeks now i have been on winter break and i like to surf the web on my laptop. I sit in the same position for about 10 hours a day, then 2 days ago i started to notice i had some aches on my joints of my toes when i squeeze them. i tried to message the joints but they hurt so bad i could barely do it. is this poor circulation of my blood, another fact is that not all of the toes are in pain just some on 1 side and some on the other, also my pinkie on y hand hurts the exact same way

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. I would recommend you not sit for extended period of time as this can cause nerve irritation of your lower back that can cause nerve symptoms in your feet. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 23, 2011

I just got a bump on the side of my big toe well its on the top were my big toe starts and it is painful what is it and what can I do for it to go away and the pain

  • Answer

Based on your description, this sounds like you have Hallux Limitus, although these symptoms can be associated with other pathologies such as trigger toe. This deformity of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint which over time causes a decreased ROM of the joint from deposition of calcium around the joint and degeneration of the cartilage in that joint. Conservative treatment options include use of a rigid shank shoe, orthotics, ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you can tolerate them. If you fail to have relief with these treatments surgical intervention may be warranted. I would recommend an evaluation with an x-ray to determine the severity of the arthritis as delayed treatment decreases the options available. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 23, 2011

I bumped my left toe very badly in winter of last year. The toe is been very sore for many months. Last week, bumped it again, and now the pain is too much. I wear high heels a lot and closed shoes.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you have a physical examination and x-rays as it sounds like you have fractured you toe. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 21, 2011

Good day doc. I'm 15 years old and I live in South Africa. I have problems in my knees and ankles,and I've known about it for quite a while. When I straighten my legs and relax them,my knees and feet are not aligned. It is very hard to explain actually,when I walk,the outsides Of my feet touch the ground first . So I'm basically walking on the sides of my feet. And it is a problem because I'm very athletic and naturally a fast runner,and I do a lot of sports. And when I try bending my ankles so that I walk flat footed,my knees bend in,and that is exactly what happens when I'm running. When I was young it really didn't matter to me,but it is starting to bother now because it is funny looking to other people. I've read a lot of articles on double jointedness and that it causes arthritis. Can you please give me advice on what to do or what kind of doctor to see for this? Your help will be appreciated

  • Answer

Based on your description, if you are having pain with running you may benefit from an orthotic in your running shoes. I would recommend you see an orthopedist that specializes in the foot and ankle.



  • Question
  • December 19, 2011

I have noticed a brown spot on my toenail well under my toenail and it was not bothering me but now on the side of my toe it feels numb. What could that mean?

  • Answer

DISCOLORED SPOTS UNDER OR ON A NAIL CAN BE MALIGNANT MELANOMA. MELANOMA IS A VERY DANGEROUS CANCER AND WHEN FOUND ON FINGERS OR TOES IS EVEN MORE DANGEROUS!!!! please read response below Discolored spots on or under the toenail can range from simple bleeding under the nail due to tight shoes of injury to the nail or nail fungus ( both very common) to less common but important to recognize findings such as splinter hemorrhages, which can be indicative of an infection of the heart valves, or malignant melanoma. Unfortunately your description alone will not rule out serious causes. Melanoma of the toes has an especially poor prognosis and requires prompt recognition, biopsy, excision, and often lymph node biopsy. Because metastatic melanoma is uniformly fatal with 1 year survial rates from 1% to 36% depending on the organs affected IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU SEE A PHYSICIAN TO RULE THIS OUT. The vast majority of discolored areas can be diagnosed by simple physical exam, but anything that can not should be biopsied. I see at least 5 patients a day with discolored nails as at least a secondary or tertiary concern and find the need to biopsy a nail/ nailbed less then once a month. As for the numbness it is probably unrelated and most likely is Joplin's neuroma, an entrapped nerve on the medial side of the big toe. This type of numbness often responds to use of a wider shoe. this type of numbness can also be seen with spinal stenosis, herniated disks in the back sciatica and similar conditions. I hope this helps.



  • Question
  • December 18, 2011

Why is it I have a bump on my foot and everytime I walk on it it has a bad tingling sensation? I can barley walk on it!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a soft tissue mass that is irritating a nerve causing a tingling sensation. Treatment includes ice and alteration of shoe gear. Sometimes surgical excision is required. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 17, 2011

Whilst travelling in Malaysia I picked up a "thing" on my 2nd L toe which forms like a soft painless blister, or a red sore from having a pedicure at a spa. My toe is slightly red and swollen & it is not sore to touch but I am aware it doesn't feel right. When it opens it is full of either clear sticky liquid or sometimes a slightly sticky puss. It then forms a scab but underneath it once again forms this sticky liquid and it will not heal. What is it??? It has been there for one year now and I don't know what it is or how to treat it. Please advise.

  • Answer

Based on your description, I would recommend you seek an examine by a podiatrist or dermatologist as the length on time the lesion has been present would warrant a biopsy of the lesion. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 17, 2011

I started to have pain in the bottom of my heel and the back as well, and sometimes when i walk it hurts. Its not a sharp pain but it feels as if i had a bruise or as if someone were hitting the back of my heel. The pain worsens when i wear shoes but i know its not my shoes. Why am i having this pain adn whats causing it? I also don"t play sports.

  • Answer

Based on your description this is most likely a Haglund's deformity. Haglund's deformity is a bony prominence on the back of the heel. A tight shoe or a rigid heel counter common on most dress shoes causes irritation of the skin over this bone spur irritating the Achilles insertion. Over time this often leads to the formation of a bursa (a fluid filled sack) between the skin and the bone. This makes the area even more prominent and just makes the problem worse. If the pain is more central this may be a retrocalcaneal exostosis a similar problem due to calcification within the Achilles tendon. Self- treatment for these conditions is ice, avoidance of impact activities, shoe gear (soft heel counter or open back shoe), no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. If the problem is only with the occasional use of dress shoes, a silicone pad placed between your skin and sock often can provide good relief. For some individuals long term relief is best achieved by surgical removal of the prominent bone spur. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement with padding, ice, and changes in shoe gear I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 16, 2011

Dear Drs. Perrone, A year ago i went to the doctor and was diagnosed with plantar facsitis and they only told me to relax so i did but the pain is still on the bottom of my foot under the arch and runs up to the two toes next to my big toe. It really hurts and i want to train again to play football but pushing it might cause damage and i want to know what should i do? -ryan

  • Answer

Based on your description you most likely have a neuroma. This a benign nerve tumor caused by nerve irritation that can cause numbness, burning sensation, cramping between the toes, separation of the toes and on the ball of the foot. Most commonly between the third and fourth toes but can affect other toes. This is most likely not related to your plantar fascitis. Usually the first line of treatment is steroid injections in conjunction with shoe modifications. For patients who failed to get adequate relief for from these measures surgery used to be the next option. However, we now have a newer treatment using alcohol sclerosing injections. This is done as a series of injections. This treatment has reduce the need for surgical removal of the neuromas. With this new treatment option available, we seldom offer surgery as an option except for the small number of patients that do not respond to the sclerosing injections. There are several causes for this type of heel pain, the most common being plantar fascitis. This is an overuse injury of the plantar fascia. This pain is localized on the bottom of the heel and can also be present throughout the arch. If the pain is localized to the back of the heel, this would most likely be Achilles tendinitis. Self treatment for these conditions is ice, no impact activities, proper shoe gear, no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement, I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. If you would like to be evaluated please contact us at 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 16, 2011

Have RA & diabetes & peripheralneuropathy. I have had numbness but no burning. Now I feel like walkin on something squishy but no swelling or redness. What treatment available??

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are most likely associated with your peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. I would recommend that you be discuss this with your physician as there are several treatment options for peripheral neuropathy. Ultimately many specialists are often involved in the treatment of these problems.



  • Question
  • December 16, 2011

Good Morning,,,,Both of my feet feel like they are on fire from toe to heal,,,this happened over night and has been like this for the past week...when i take motrin it feels better but does not get rid of the pain,,,i've never had foot pain before

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. It sounds like you are having neuritis that can be caused by lower back pathology vs lower extremity pathology. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 15, 2011

Hi I've been having this pain on my big toe on my left foot and it turns out to be a little bump thats under it. at first i thought it would've been a pebble stuck in it or a piece of glass but the bump is rock hard and when i apply pressure to the bump it hurts so can yu help me please i dislike pain.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this may be a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. These are benign lesions that cause a hard area on the bottom of the foot that gives the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatments include moisturizer cream and use of a pumice stone. In some cases treatment with a blistering agent may be required to remove the lesion. Please feel free to contact our office for an evaluation, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 14, 2011

i have been getting a hard lump on the right side of my right foot probly 2 inches from my toes . It has periodically been showing up and cause pain as I walk . Now it is a continuous thing and causes numbness in my last three toes and below them . If u run your fingers on the lump it will send a tingling sensation up the top of my foot to my toe next to my pinky toe . I had x-rays done and they came back normal . What could this be ?

  • Answer

Based on your description, it sounds like you have a soft tissue mass that is impinging on a nerve. I would recommend you follow-up with your doctor and have an MRI done.



  • Question
  • December 12, 2011

Hi! I had some new boots where the top tounge stitching rubbed a particular point on the bridge of both my feet, along what I think is called the 1st metatarsal (?) just down from my big toe. These points have turned into fleshy lumps with wriggly but hard centres that never quite go away. They can be quite sensitive and flare up if I try to wear the boots. They dont seem like corns, but rather under the skin. Does this need to be looked at professionally?? They kind of freak me out. I tried having the boots stretched but they are stubborn.

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have developed an bursa over the big toe joint. This is a fluid filled sac over a bony prominence. I would recommend you have an examination. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 12, 2011

I have a red, soft lump on the top of my right big toe, just above the second knuckle. The veins that run along the left side of my toe are hard and numb before the spot. I can move the lump around under the skin. Right under the spot it goes numb and feels mushy and stays numb on the left side of the toe, out to the nail. There used to be a sharp pain when I wiggled it, now it's very dull but it aches up to my ankle at random times. This has been going on for about 4 weeks. The doctors can't see me for another month, but I'm really worried--what could be the cause?

  • Answer

Based on your description, this soft tissue mass has involvement with the sensory nerves on the dorsal aspect of your second toe. You may want to try another physicians office to see you sooner. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 12, 2011

I started feeling pain and pressure at the bottom of my feet as if it is swollen though it is not after sleeping or sitting for while and I want to walk. I noticed this few days after I started taking a herbal sliming tea. At a time I stopped but the pain didn't stop so I continue with the tea. Pls what could be the cause?

  • Answer

Based on your description, I am unable to render a diagnosis. I would recommend you stop drinking the tea as this may be causing water retention in you lower extremities. I would recommend you follow-up with your primary care physician.



  • Question
  • December 11, 2011

I habe been having left foot pain qnd achilles ten pain in my left and.rigjt foot..The pain is more severe in my left achilles tendon when there is pressure put against. It feels like my tendon bends or wants to pop wjen i step the.wrong way or if i am walking.on uneven surfaces. In addition, i would get this burning sensation in my feet as.well. when i stand for a long period of time the heels of my feet kill me. I try to rest my feet as much as.possible and that helps until i get back active and the pain comes back. I had an xray and it hasnt showed anything, they said my tendon looked.swollen in the xray and i am waiting on my mri. They are.also going to measure my legs becuase.the doc said my hips were not aligned. Lastly, i am unable to wear high heels because i feel as if my ankle wont support the weight.

  • Answer

Based on your description this is most likely a Haglund's deformity. Haglund's deformity is a bony prominence on the back of the heel. A tight shoe or a rigid heel counter common on most dress shoes causes irritation of the skin over this bone spur irritating the Achilles insertion. Over time this often leads to the formation of a bursa (a fluid filled sack) between the skin and the bone. This makes the area even more prominent and just makes the problem worse. If the pain is more central this may be a retrocalcaneal exostosis a similar problem due to calcification within the Achilles tendon. You also mention pain and brning in your feet that may be associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome, which is entracment of the posterior tibial nerve on the inside on your ankle. Self- treatment for these conditions is ice, avoidance of impact activities, shoe gear (soft heel counter or open back shoe), no barefoot walking, and anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, ibuprofen), if you tolerate them. If the problem is only with the occasional use of dress shoes, a silicone pad placed between your skin and sock often can provide good relief. For some individuals long term relief is best achieved by surgical removal of the prominent bone spur. You should notice improvement in 7 -10 days. If there is no improvement with padding, ice, and changes in shoe gear I would recommend an evaluation to rule out less common pathologies. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 11, 2011

it feels like there are bubbles on the bottom of my feet when i walk, almost kind of like a numb feeling, but there is nothing on the bottom of my feet, can you tell me whats wrong or how to get rid of it?

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are most likely associated with peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. I would recommend that you be discuss this with your physician as there are several diseases associated with peripheral neuropathy. Ultimately many specialists are often involved in the treatment of these problems.



  • Question
  • December 11, 2011

When I wear heels the next day the joint of my big toe - on the ball of the foot - hurts and constantly feels like it needs to pop. Is this arthritis? I am over 40 and I did break that toe when I was 13.

  • Answer

Based on your description, this sounds like you have Hallux Limitus, although these symptoms can be associated with other pathologies such as trigger toe. This deformity of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint which over time causes a decreased ROM of the joint from deposition of calcium around the joint and degeneration of the cartilage in that joint. Conservative treatment options include use of a rigid shank shoe, orthotics, ice and anti-inflammatory medications if you can tolerate them. If you fail to have relief with these treatments surgical intervention may be warranted. I would recommend an evaluation with an x-ray to determine the severity of the arthritis as delayed treatment decreases the options available. Our office number is 772-461-4400



  • Question
  • December 8, 2011

I had my left foot stepped on in a football game. This was over 2 months ago. I now have a space In between my 2nd and 3rd toe that was not there previously. I have pain on the inside of my foot and top. It also looks like my arch is swollen. I do not know whether it could be bone or tendon related or ligament?

  • Answer

Based on your description, you may have ruptured a tendon or ligament. I would recommend you have an examination and MRI. . We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 8, 2011

Hi. About a week ago I went running and about 3 miles into my run, I was getting a sharp pain on the inside middle of my foot. I slowed down my run, but the pain got worse and worse and every time i would step down, there would a sharp pain from the inside of my foot that would shoot across the inside of it. I haven't been running since, just been doing my normal activities, working and school, and trying to rest it. After working last night, I am a server so always on my feet, this morning my foot is severely hurting and every time i step down I can feel a muscle or tendon rubbing or moving against a born. Can you please help me and how i can recover fast.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have a stress fracture of one of your metatarsals. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them and seek an medical exam with an x-ray. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 7, 2011

my neice was just born 3 days ago her toes that r next to her pinky toes lay under her other toes u can not see them unless u pull them up what does this mean

  • Answer

This is normal at this age due to positioning in the womb. If there is concern, you can mention this to your pediatrician.



  • Question
  • December 7, 2011

I have a painful small lump that pops out on the right side of my right foot below the ankle and and inch towards the front. It pops out every couple of months and lately more frequently. Was wondering what it could be and if serious. Thank you

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. You may have a ganglion cyst, which is a benign fluid filled mass. Treatment includes ice, alteration of shoe gear and aspiration of the lesion. Sometimes surgical excision is required. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 7, 2011

Hello Doctors, This is strange but I will explain as best I can. On the right side of my big toe if feels like there is pressure. Ay first, I thought there was something in my sock, like a big piece of fluff, but there was nothing there. It is very strange. Please can you explain? Thank you!!!!!!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. It sounds like you may have inflammation of your big toe joint. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 6, 2011

I have a question for you. Wearing my same shoes to work I always do my left toes starting hurting. got home and my third toe over is purple and sore like a bruised feeling dont remember knocking in on anything should i be worried? karen paybe

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your 3rd toe, a fracture, a contusion, or a vascular problem. I would recommend you examine your shoes to be sure they are the correct size. I would recommend you have a physical examination to determine a differential diagnosis. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 6, 2011

I have severe pain on my right foot on the right side starting where my little toe ends to the middle. Its even very painful to step on a pebble or an edge of a rug or even a power cord that i want to just cry because I think its broken or something is really wrong. I have tried to squeeze my foot to massage it but that is very painful too. Can you please help me to find out what this is, I have had this happening to me for 6 mo give or take a month. I am a 43 year old hispanic woman. Thank you for your time.

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your 5th toe joint vs a sural neuritis. You could also have a stress fracture of the 5th metatarsal. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 6, 2011

My foot hurts exspecially to rub it in between the ball of my foot and my middle toes right at the top almost to where they bend. Any answers would help great

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your metatarsal phalangeal joints, a neuroma or a stress fracutre. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 5, 2011

Hi, I have a strange fleshy bump on the ball of my right foot. It's movable, about dime sized, and isn't painful. It does cause me some worry, and it is uncomfortable as I can feel it with every step. I'd appreciate any ideas you have. Thanks!

  • Answer

There are many masses that can be found in this area. most of them are associated with the tendon joint and ligaments in the area. If the mass does not hurt most often no treatment is needed, but it should be evaluated, measured and followed. You did not provide much information about yourself or your medical history. The chance of this being malignant is generally going to be higher if you are very young, very old, have and cancer at any other site in your body, have a family history of cancer especially sarcomas, and some masses have a predilection for one gender or another and for certain races.



  • Question
  • December 4, 2011

I have pain when I step down on my left foot just under the 2nd toe. It feels as if I am stepping down on a stone or like I have a piece of glass in it. When I raise up on my toes it makes it worse. If I am on my feet for any length of time it is even more painful. The 2nd toe is bent sideways some(which is crooked which I have had almost since birth but gotten much worse-negative testing for arthritis) I have pain that shoots up to my knee and had hip pain for what seems like forever. Pain in my calf. My little toe has no 2nd joint to bend it (birth defect)and the Dr. I had when I was young said I may have some problems when I got older and suggested severing the tendon in the toe so it lies flat. Wouldn't get it done but I wonder if that is the problem or from my dog stepping on my foot (he weighed about 70 pounds at the time). It's not like I can pinpoint the pain unless someone pushed down at the top of my foot under my 2nd toe. It's making it hard to stand any length of time now or walk. Running increases the pain and having shoes on makes it worse, not better.

  • Answer

You give a very good description of your problem. The deformity in the 2nd toe is referred to as a hammer toe. There are several types of hammertoes and they are often noticed at a young age and progressively get worse as time goes by. More often then not at some point the metatarsal phalangel joint ( the joint where the toe connects to the foot) begins to dislocate. When it does, it becomes prominent on the ball of the foot and often becomes inflamed and painful with walking standing or pushing on the area. This joint can also irritate and entrap the nerve that goes to the 2nd and 3rd toes and this makes the problem even worse. Self treatment is difficult and often not very effective, but what can be tried is application of ice several times a day for about 20 min at a time. eliminate barefoot walking and eliminate flip flops slippers and the like. Use an athletic shoe with soft padding in the sole and lots of room for the toes. a toe splint to hold the toe down can help if the toe is flexible enough. And if you can tolerate asprin, ibuprofen or naproxen ( OTC) these can help but should only be taken for a few days. If you have poor circulation, diabetes, numbness in your feet, or other serious health problems, self treatment is not advised. If self treatment fails this is often treated with cortisone injections,anti-inflammatory medications and padding in the shoes. definitive treatment is often surgical.



  • Question
  • December 4, 2011

I have slight swelling and small soft lump on right side of right foot a little forward and a little lower than right ankle. On waking in morning or after weight has been off of foot there is significant pain when first standing. The pain is right across the top of the foot (Feels like pressure across the top) This pain goes away after walking for a few minutes. Could this be a fracture? I am a dancer and do recall a slight pain on landing weeks earlier, however the pain was on the outer left side of the right foot.

  • Answer

Based on your description, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said you could have a stress fracture or ligament strain and I would recommend you have an examination and x-rays. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • December 1, 2011

I have been noticing tightness and compression at the top of my left foot--as though my shoes are too tight. I am wearing the same shoes as always, and this occurs in all three different pairs of shoes I tend to rotate through. If I slip out of my shoes the discomfort lessens to almost no symptoms. Is there any reason for this to just start up? What should I do to correct his problem. I know I can buy bigger shoes, but there has to be a reason for this to have changed just recently. I do have a 17 month old that I carry mostly on my left side. Thank you for any assistance.

  • Answer

Based on your description, your shoe gear may be irritating the nerve on the top of your foot as you describe your symptoms resolving with removal of your shoes. Also with pregnancy, the ligaments in your feet relax thus changing the structure of the feet. You can try altering the lacing on the top of your shoes to reduce the pressure over the top of your foot. If you continue to experience problems, I would recommend you have an examination and possibly x-rays. Our office number is 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 30, 2011

Help! I don't know what is wrong with my foot. The joint that connects the big toe to the foot really hurts and it hurts terribly to curl my toes under and to walk or run on it and I have noticed a skinny dark purple vein right below my second toe. I don't remember actually injuring my foot but I did sprain my ankle about a week before the foot and toe pain started but my ankle stopped hurting before the toe pain started. But do you think the sprained ankle could still be related?

  • Answer

Based on your description, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said the ankle sprain could be related as you may have altered your gait causing inflammation of your great toe joint. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 30, 2011

For the past week I have experienced pain in the ball of my right foot, in the fleshy part behind my second toe. It is especially painful to walk forward or stand on my tip toes. It is very painful to walk barefoot or in any type of shoes except thicker soled flip flops. My husband even bought me new running shoes to wear, but they hurt worse. I thought maybe it was a piece of glass, so I've been soaking it in Epsom salt and hot water, then scrubbing with a pumice stone, but nothing has surfaced. Taking Advil helps somewhat. Tonight it is very achy. Any thoughts? Thank you!

  • Answer

Based on your description of your symptoms, it is difficult to give you a differential diagnosis without an examination and x-rays. With that being said, you may have inflammation of your second metatarsal phalangeal joint. You could also have a stress fracture of the second metatarsal as well as a porokeratosis, plantars wart, or intractable keratosis. I would recommend you use ice, good supportive shoes, compression wrap brace and anti-inflammatory medications if you tolerate them. Without a physical examination a differential diagnosis cannot be made. We would be happy to see you in our office and do offer discounts for uninsured patients, 772-461-4400.



  • Question
  • November 29, 2011

I had a cist removed from the arch of my foot in June 2011. The scar never went down and my doc always thought it was just scar tissue in there. I just had a MRI and the results were multiple fibromas in there. Is this common and what would you recommend I do about it. I am currenlty in PT becasue my gait is off and it has caused me to have tendonitis in my foot. Any other suggestions. The doc did recommend removing it since the fibromas are bigger then the cyst that i had removed.

  • Answer

Based on your description, and lack of mention of pathology report. I will assume that the original lesion was also a plantar fibroma. It is very common to have more then one plantar fibroma at one time often only one is large and or symptomatic so detection of smaller lesions without a good quality MRI can be difficult . even though Plantar fibromas are benign they are locally invasive and highly recurrent soft tissue masses within the plantar fascia of the foot. This lesion also occurs in other areas of the body such as the hand where it is known as Dupuytren’s contracture. This lesion seldom requires excision unless it is symptomatic or there is significant uncertainty in the diagnosis. When it causes pain or must be biopsied wide excision is often successful but this requires a large incision on the sole of the foot and these incisions can cause healing challenges and, as you seem to be experiencing, any incision on the bottom of the foot often leave scars . When more than one lesion is to be excised the entire fascia must be removed to prevent recurrence and this is an even larger challenge. When the lesion are not symptomatic they can be treated by doing nothing, injection with corticosteroids to cause atrophy of the lesion (exploiting the generally undesired side effect of these medications on collagen turnover) and finally there is some evidence of the use of topical medication on these lesions. The topical medication is not FDA approved for this indication and not widely available, but can be prepared by some compounding pharmacies or ordered by your physician. I have had success with it, but the process is slow. (I have purposely not disclosed the name on the medication so it will not be construed that I am recommending you obtain without a prescription, but you treating physician should know what it is). other then the above suggestions aggressive PT to break up the scar tissue as you are doing is a great first step. I hope this helps



  • Question
  • November 28, 2011

hello, i went to the doctor, did some tests and the doctor had said i got a foreign body in my foot but they didnt do anything about it, it hurts so much i cant sleep at night it only hurts when im still. when i touch my foot i feel like something is moving or stuggling move ,it also happens when i wear socks or any type of shoes, what could it be, i cant stand the pain anymore and im tired of taking pain killers,the doctors told me i suffer from lupus , i have no symptoms from lupus!! and i dont take any medication i feel great.i always try telling them its my foot thats worring me even though they diagonised a foreign body in my right foot but they always say that i should take the medication from lupus i just dont believe them i can feel it myself that its something else.i have also met some people who suffer from lupus i could see some symptoms and they were having lots pain and i feel totally fine i have no pain and im puzzeled. i am from austria i thought i could seek help here, i know i have something else i feel it inside me and i dont know how to explain, i mean i cant explain to the doctors how the thing in my foot moves because it only happens when i am laying in my bed and at day time when i move around and all i feel perfect. i would appreciate a answer,i hope to get help. yours faithfully raheela

  • Answer

I'm Sorry to hear about this unfortunate situation. Without having the opportunity to examine you and see the records of what has and has not been done I can only give you some cursory input about your situation. First I will address the issue of the foreign body. With the exception of foreign objects that are very porous or known to be contaminated it is often acceptable to leave the object in if it is not causing symptoms. If however if there are symptoms that are thought to be related to the foreign object then the foreign material should be removed. Here in the US if the object is not visible on plain film x-ray and is not able to be felt through the skin an MRI is often used to localize the object prior to excision. As for the sensation of movement at likely cause is that the object is irritating one of the small intrinsic foot muscles or the nerve going to the muscle and causing spasms. This sensation and the pain at night can best be explained by peripheral neuropathy which is a malfunction of the sensory nerves that can occur by it self or in association with other disease such as lupus. Next let me address lupus. If you have no symptoms of lupus it is not clear how you would have been diagnosed with lupus or why you would be treated for lupus. The Diagnosis of lupus is purely a clinical diagnosis there is no test for lupus. If you are certain you do not have any symptoms of lupus and did not at the time of diagnosis then you need to see a rheumatologist and get a second opinion. I do know of instances where patients have been diagnosed with lupus based on positive ANA blood test alone but this is not common with physicians in North America or western Europe. ( 95% of individuals with positive ANA do not have lupus ) The symptoms of lupus are quite variable and can go into remission so lack of current symptoms are not indicative of not having the disease, and comparing symptoms with others with lupus is of almost no diagnostic value. The issue of if you have lupus or not needs to be addressed first, because if you have lupus or are taking impressiveness medications to treat lupus you could be at increased risk of complications if surgical excision of the foreign body is done. I hope this helps



  • Question
  • November 29, 2011

I have experienced what feels like pins being pushed through my ankle bones. What can cause this? Also, the skin on the top of my feet hurts with or without touch.

  • Answer

Thank you for your question. From your description, these symptoms are may be symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy causes hypersensitivity, numbness, burning, tightness of the lower extremities. I would recommend that you be discuss this with your physician as there are several treatment options for peripheral neuropathy. Ultimately many specialists are often involved in the treatment of these problems.



  • Question
  • November 28, 2011

Hi Dr. I had a facemask land on my hand a few months back. I have had a bump ever since. When you press the bump i feel pain in a different place in my hand. It has not gone down for three months. My mom even took me to the Dr. to get it xrayed and nothing was broken. Please help. Just the slightest touch will make me feel a ton of pain in a different part of my hand. Thanks.

  • Answer

Unfortunately, I do not treat hands. I would recommend you follow-up with a hand specialist.



  • Question
  • November 27, 2011

there's a random bulge on the top of my left foot. It really hurts and it hurts to bend my big toe 2. i keep soaking it in water and rubbing it and nothing helps. pain medications havent helped either. and i i dident do anything to my foot. it just started hurting and the bulge was