Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve problem that commonly develops near the base of the third and fourth toes. The nerve becomes enlarged and inflamed, which can lead to burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot. Some people describe the sensation as feeling like something is stuck beneath the forefoot. Female runners may face an increased risk because running places repeated stress on the front of the foot. Women who regularly wear narrow, pointed-toe shoes or high heels may experience additional pressure that crowds the toes and irritates the nerve.

Active women with flat feet may be particularly prone to developing a neuroma. Symptoms often begin gradually but can become more intense as the nerve continues to enlarge. Running on hard surfaces can repeatedly stress the forefoot, while certain footwear can increase compression around the toes. Morton’s neuroma is not visible on an X-ray, so diagnosis depends largely on symptoms and a physical examination. A podiatrist may press along the affected area or perform a movement that produces a noticeable click. Identifying the problem early is important because continued nerve irritation can eventually cause lasting damage.

A podiatrist can evaluate forefoot pain and determine whether Morton’s neuroma may be causing a runner’s symptoms. Treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices designed to reduce pressure on the irritated nerve. More advanced cases may require surgery to release or remove the affected nerve. A podiatrist can also evaluate foot structure and determine whether other factors, such as flat feet, are contributing to repeated compression. Persistent burning, tingling, or numbness should not be ignored when it begins interfering with running or daily movement. If you are experiencing ongoing pain in the ball of the foot that may indicate Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the bottom of the feet and are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus, or HPV. These warts often appear as rough, thickened areas of skin on parts of the foot that bear weight, such as the heel or the ball of the foot. Plantar warts may have a grainy texture and sometimes contain small dark pinpoint spots within the lesion. Symptoms include localized tenderness, discomfort while walking, and pressure-related pain. Risk factors include walking barefoot in warm moist environments, such as locker rooms or public pool areas, minor skin breaks, and weakened skin protection. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar warts and provide safe targeted treatment. Plantar warts can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed this type of wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

A long walk in new shoes can end with a painful blister on your heel or toe. A blister forms when repeated rubbing separates the upper layers of skin. The body fills the space with clear fluid, creating a cushion that protects the tender skin below. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or too stiff can cause this rubbing. Heat and damp socks can make it worse because moist skin is easier to damage. Blisters also develop after long walks or runs, especially when shoes fit poorly.

Most foot blisters heal on their own in a few days to a week if you protect them from further rubbing. However, a blister can become infected after it breaks and allows germs to enter. Warning signs include worsening redness, swelling, and warmth. Increasing pain or drainage can also signal a problem. Patients with diabetes, poor blood flow, or reduced feeling in the feet should contact a podiatrist promptly. These problems can slow healing or hide worsening damage. A podiatrist can examine the blister, identify its cause, and check for infection. The doctor can also drain a large or painful blister safely while keeping its protective skin in place.

Preventing another blister from forming begins with reducing rubbing and pressure. Choose well-fitting shoes with enough room for the toes, and break in new pairs gradually. Moisture-wicking socks can help keep feet dry. A podiatrist can find pressure points caused by foot shape, toe position, or the way you walk. Treatment includes professional padding, changes in shoe fit, and custom orthotics. These shoe inserts are specially made for your feet to spread pressure more evenly. The podiatrist can explain which shoes work best for your activities and foot structure. This guidance is useful when blisters keep returning in the same place. If you have a painful or infected blister on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Running can improve heart health, endurance, and confidence, but running when overweight places greater force on the feet and ankles with each step. This does not mean that an overweight person should not run. A careful start can reduce strain and make this exercise more comfortable. Begin with short sessions that alternate brisk walking and easy running. Choose a flat, predictable surface rather than steep hills or uneven trails. Increase distance or speed gradually, but avoid raising both during the same week. Pain that changes your stride, causes swelling, or remains after a run deserves attention.

Proper running shoes are important because they help absorb impact and keep the feet stable. Shoes should fit the length and width of the foot without squeezing the toes or allowing the heel to slide. Replace shoes when the cushioning or tread becomes worn. Moisture-wicking socks can help limit blisters. A pre-run warmup prepares the muscles and joints for activity. Keep the pace slow enough to speak in short sentences, and schedule recovery days between runs. Stop running if sharp pain, dizziness, or unusual shortness of breath develops.

A podiatrist can examine the feet, ankles, and walking pattern before a new running program begins. The doctor can identify flat feet, limited joint movement, or areas under excess pressure. This evaluation can reveal problems that raise the chance of heel pain, tendon injuries, or stress fractures. A podiatrist can also recommend running shoes based on foot shape and gait. Custom orthotics can improve alignment and distribute pressure more evenly when appropriate. For an injury, the podiatrist can order imaging, explain activity limits, and create a plan for returning to running. Regular follow-up visits allow the doctor to check progress and adjust recommendations as mileage increases. If you are overweight and have developed foot pain while running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and guidance tips.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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