Flat feet occur when the arches along the inside of the feet are low or absent. Some people have flat feet without pain or other problems. Others develop discomfort as the condition progresses. Flat foot surgery may be considered when persistent symptoms do not improve with non-surgical care. The goal is to improve foot structure and restore the arch at the base of the foot. Surgery may also help improve alignment and make walking more comfortable when a significant deformity is present.

Several problems can contribute to the need for flat foot surgery. A weakened or damaged tendon may reduce support for the arch. Arthritis, an injury, or an abnormal foot structure can also affect alignment. Risk factors include aging, excess weight, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms include arch pain, heel discomfort, or difficulty walking. Some people notice that their shoes wear unevenly or that the ankle appears to roll inward.

Before recommending surgery, a podiatrist will examine your feet and review your symptoms. The evaluation may include checking your alignment and observing how you walk. X-rays or other imaging tests can help show changes in the bones and joints. If surgery is appropriate, the procedure depends on the cause and severity of the flat foot. Recovery may involve protecting the foot, controlling swelling, and gradually returning to weight-bearing activity as healing progresses.

Flat foot surgery is not necessary for everyone with fallen arches. A podiatrist first considers non-surgical options and your overall foot health. When surgery is needed, the treatment plan is designed to address the specific structural problem and support long-term function. If you have flat feet that may require surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Ross Limon, DPM of Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Pickleball is a fun way to stay active, but your feet and ankles work hard during every game. Quick starts, sudden stops, and side-to-side movements place repeated stress on the feet. Wearing the right pickleball shoes can help protect your feet while improving comfort and confidence on the court. Good shoes should provide support, stability, and cushioning. They should also fit well and allow your toes enough room to move naturally.

The wrong shoes can make pickleball harder on your feet. Running shoes are designed mainly for forward movement and may not provide enough side-to-side support. Shoes with poor traction can increase the risk of slipping or twisting an ankle. Inadequate cushioning may contribute to heel pain or soreness after playing. Other possible injuries include ankle sprains, blisters, and stress injuries. Players who regularly play on hard courts may notice symptoms sooner when their footwear does not provide enough protection.

Choosing shoes made for court sports can help address these concerns. Look for a secure fit that keeps your heel from sliding. A stable sole can help support quick lateral movements. Reliable grip can improve traction during stops and changes in direction. Cushioning can reduce some of the impact placed on your feet during play. Additionally, comfortable materials can also help prevent rubbing and pressure points. Replace worn shoes when the tread becomes smooth or the cushioning feels less supportive.

If foot or ankle pain develops, a podiatrist can examine your feet and determine what may be causing the problem. Depending on the injury, treatment may include activity changes, supportive footwear, or other appropriate care. The podiatrist may also evaluate your walking pattern and footwear needs to help reduce future problems. If you have foot or ankle injuries from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and injury prevention tips.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Ross Limon, DPM of Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression or irritation of the tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space near the inner ankle. Symptoms may include burning pain, tingling, or shooting discomfort that travels toward the sole or toes. Pain may become more noticeable at night or after activity. Recognizing these warning signs can help you seek care before symptoms become difficult to manage. Early evaluation can help identify nerve pressure before pain interferes with daily activities.

Several risk factors can increase the chance of developing tarsal tunnel syndrome. An ankle injury may cause swelling that puts pressure on the tibial nerve. Flat feet can change foot alignment and increase tension around the tunnel. Arthritis, diabetes, or a growth near the nerve can also contribute. Repetitive activities that stress the ankle may worsen irritation. Footwear that lacks proper support can add strain for some people. A careful evaluation can help identify which factors are contributing to nerve pressure.

A podiatrist will begin with a detailed examination of the foot and ankle. They may check sensation, muscle strength, and nerve response. Imaging or nerve testing may be recommended to identify the source of symptoms. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include activity changes, supportive footwear, or medication. If nerve compression remains severe, an injection or a surgical procedure may be considered.

Early attention to tarsal tunnel symptoms can help protect comfort. Avoiding activities that increase pain may reduce irritation while the area heals. Wearing supportive shoes can also help limit stress on the ankle. Persistent numbness, burning, or worsening pain should not be ignored. A podiatrist can determine whether nerve compression is responsible, and create an appropriate treatment plan for lasting relief and safer daily movement overall. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Ross Limon, DPM of Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. 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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in children, especially during periods of rapid growth. Despite the name, it is not actually a disease, but an irritation of the growth plate at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. This problem often develops in active children who participate in running or jumping sports, as repeated pulling on the heel can lead to pain, tenderness, or limping. Relief focuses on reducing strain and allowing the irritated area to recover while the child continues to grow. A podiatrist may recommend supportive footwear, stretching programs, temporary activity adjustments, or custom orthotics to improve foot function and reduce stress on the heel. In some cases, additional support may be needed if pain becomes more persistent. Most children improve with appropriate treatment and time. If your child continues to experience heel pain during activity or walking, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate relief tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Ross Limon, DPM from Boca Deerfield Footcare Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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