Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that results from a subtle injury to the calcaneocuboid joint, on the outer side of the midfoot, where the heel bone meets the cuboid bone, and leading to pain along the outer side of the foot and difficulty with normal walking. It often develops after an ankle sprain, overuse, or repetitive strain that affects joint alignment and surrounding soft tissues. Common symptoms include pain, tenderness, swelling, and discomfort that worsens with weight-bearing activity. Risk factors include high impact sports, flat feet, wearing improper footwear, and previous foot or ankle injuries. A podiatrist can diagnose cuboid syndrome through clinical evaluation and restore joint alignment with manual techniques, along with recommending supportive footwear and orthotics. If you have pain on the outside of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to relieve discomfort and prevent ongoing instability.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes that develop when high blood sugar and reduced circulation impair the skin’s ability to heal. These ulcers often appear on the bottom of the foot or pressure points and may look like open sores with surrounding redness or thickened edges. They can feel painful, or in some cases numb due to nerve damage, making them easy to overlook until infection occurs. Causes include nerve damage, poor circulation, prolonged pressure, and minor injuries that do not heal properly. A podiatrist begins with a careful exam, assessing circulation, sensation, and the depth of the ulcer, often using imaging or lab tests to rule out infection. Treatment may include specialized wound care and debridement, custom orthotics or offloading devices to reduce pressure, and education on proper foot care to prevent recurrence. If you have diabetes, and suffer from foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This nerve irritation can lead to pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the toes, sole, or heel. Symptoms may worsen with standing or walking and improve with rest. Common causes include flat feet, swelling, varicose veins, cysts, or injury. Diagnosis is based on a clinical exam and may be supported by imaging such as ultrasound or MRI scans to identify nerve compression. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms, determine the underlying cause, and develop a treatment plan that may include footwear changes, orthotics, or other interventions. If you have persistent foot pain or numbness, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for expert care and a personalized treatment plan.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenail surgery is often recommended when an ingrown nail becomes painful or infected. Symptoms usually include swelling, drainage, and overgrown skin along the nail edge. The toe may look inflamed or shiny and can feel sore at first, then progress to sharp pain, throbbing, or tenderness that makes wearing shoes difficult. Causes include repeated improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and genetic factors that cause the nail to curve into the skin. A podiatrist can help from the start by examining the toe, confirming the diagnosis, and determining whether infection or deeper tissue involvement is present. Early care may include conservative treatment, but when symptoms persist, a minor in-office surgical procedure can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail. Treatment then moves into proper wound care, infection prevention, and long-term solutions to reduce recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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