What We Offer

Kinesiology Taping: Kinesiology tape is a therapeutic tape that’s applied strategically to the feet and ankles to provide support, lessen pain, reduce swelling, and improve performance. Kinesio tape is made with a proprietary blend of cotton and nylon. It’s designed to mimic the skin’s elasticity so you can use your full range of motion. The tape’s medical-grade adhesive is also water-resistant and strong enough to stay on for three to five days, even while you work out or take showers.

When the tape is applied to your body, it recoils slightly, gently lifting your skin. It is believed that this helps to create a microscopic space between your skin and the tissues underneath it.

Kinesiology tape is used for treating injuries, supporting weak zones of the muscles or joints, re-educating muscles, and enhancing athletic performance.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.healthline.com/health/kinesiology-tape

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Second Opinion: A second opinion is recommended if you have already seen another doctor and you are unsure if you need to go through a certain procedure, such as surgery. By receiving a second opinion, we can go through everything discussed with your previous doctor and determine whether a certain procedure is truly necessary and if there are alternative options for treatment. This saves you time and money, as well as provides confidence in your healthcare.

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Regenerative Treatments: Regenerative treatments aim to stimulate the body to regenerate or replace cells and tissues damaged due to aging, disease, or injury instead of treating orthopedic conditions through medication and invasive surgical procedures. Such treatments include growth factors, cytokines, collagen, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), amniotic-derived materials, and cell therapy.

Because these are fast and simple treatments, they are a great alternative to surgery for certain conditions. Regenerative treatments may be a good option for foot and ankle conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, diabetic foot ulcers, venous stasis ulcers, fat pad atrophy and associated metatarsalgia, fibroma, joint pain, metatarsalgia, neuroma, nonunions, plantar fasciitis, plantar plate injury, porokeratosis, tendonitis of the foot and ankle, and wounds (chronic and post-operative).

Click the link to learn more: https://www.massgeneral.org/orthopaedics/foot-ankle/conditions-and-treatments/orthobiologics-for-foot-and-ankle

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Vascular Testing: Are you experiencing cramping, tingling, burning, or heaviness in your feet while walking or at rest? Do you have a history of diabetes, smoking or heart disease? If so, you could have underlying problems with the circulation in your legs and feet.

A simple, in-office circulation test, also known as a vascular test, can prevent major problems with your limbs, and can be limb and lifesaving! Circulation is like plumbing in your home. When you have blockages in your plumbing that are often subtle and you can’t detect, they can lead to issues overnight. The same concept happens you have blockages in the circulation to your legs, feet and toes.

The results of your test can identify the treatment that will help you regain your ability to do the things you enjoy. Ask your foot and ankle doctor about vascular testing.

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Ankle Pain: Ankle pain can occur suddenly without an obvious injury and may be caused by various conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, reactive arthritis, lupus, gout, bursitis, scleroderma, fallen arches, Achilles tendonitis, osteochondral lesion of the talus, or infections. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, physical therapy, orthotics, or surgery. It’s important to seek medical attention for unexplained ankle pain to prevent potential complications. 

Click the link to learn more: https://www.healthline.com/health/sudden-ankle-pain-without-injury#treatment

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Arch Pain: Arch pain is a common foot concern affecting both athletes and non-athletes alike. It can be caused by injuries, structural issues, weight gain, aging, overuse, neurological conditions, or physical stress. Common conditions causing arch pain include plantar fasciitis, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), overpronation, and cavus foot. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the arch, heel, and other areas of the foot. Treatment options range from rest, icing, and stretching to orthotic shoe inserts, physical therapy, medication, and surgery. If experiencing persistent arch pain, it’s important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Click the link to learn more: https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-in-arch-of-foot

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Athlete’s Foot: Athlete’s foot, or Tinea Pedis, is a fungal skin infection that commonly affects the feet, particularly between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments like shoes, swimming pools, and locker rooms. Symptoms include dry, itchy, and burning skin, scaling, inflammation, swelling, and blisters. If proper foot hygiene doesn’t improve the condition within two weeks, it’s essential to consult a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may involve topical or oral antifungal medication, as well as keeping the feet dry and clean to prevent recurrence and transmission.  

Click the link to learn more: https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=978

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Gout: Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain and swollen joints. While gout flares often start in the big toe, they can affect other joints as well. Risk factors include genetics, diet high in purines, and certain health conditions or medications. Symptoms include sudden onset of severe pain and swelling, which may last for days. Tophi, or lumps under the skin, can develop over time. Treatment involves lowering uric acid levels in the blood through medication, lifestyle changes, and managing pain during flares. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications. Tracking symptoms and adhering to prescribed medication are essential for managing gout effectively.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=38396

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Hallux Rigidus: Hallux rigidus, or “big toe arthritis,” is a type of arthritis affecting the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint at the base of the big toe. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the big toe joint, often leading to a loss of motion. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, and a bump resembling a bunion on top of the big toe. The condition usually develops over time due to wear and tear on the joint, although other factors like injuries, foot structure, and certain health conditions can contribute. Diagnosis involves a physical exam and X-rays, with stages classified based on the severity of symptoms and joint movement restriction. Treatment options range from conservative measures like footwear modification and orthotics to surgical intervention in severe cases. 

Click the link to learn more: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14665-hallux-rigidus

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Heel Pain: Heel pain can be caused by various factors, including faulty biomechanics, injury, or wearing poorly constructed footwear. Common causes include heel spurs, which are bony growths under the heel bone, and plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot. Excessive pronation, or inward motion of the foot, can also contribute to heel pain. Achilles tendinitis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, neuroma, Haglund’s deformity, and bone bruises are other possible causes. If heel pain persists, limits daily activities, or is accompanied by inflammation, it’s advisable to consult a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=985

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Plantar Fibromas: A plantar fibroma is a harmless growth in the arch of the foot, developing within the plantar fascia tissue. It’s typically small, less than 1 inch, and grows slowly over time. While painless in early stages, it may cause discomfort if it enlarges or is pressed. It’s more common in young or middle-aged adults, with a suspected genetic component. Plantar fibroma can progress to plantar fibromatosis, associated with conditions like liver disease and diabetes. Diagnosis involves a physical exam and possibly imaging tests like X-ray or MRI to confirm and rule out other conditions. In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed for further evaluation.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.healthline.com/health/plantar-fibroma

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Posterior Tibial Tendon Pain: Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) causes foot and ankle pain due to damage or degeneration of the tendon supporting the foot arch. It’s common in women and older adults, especially those with obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes. PTTD can result from repetitive strain, injuries, or aging. Symptoms include pain, swelling, difficulty walking, and deformity of the foot. Diagnosis involves physical examination, including checking for swelling and range of motion, and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, CT scans, or ultrasound. Treatment depends on the stage of PTTD and may involve rest, physical therapy, orthotics, or surgery.

Click the link to learn more: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22057-posterior-tibial-tendon-dysfunction

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Shin Splints/Leg Pain: Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, cause pain in the front part of your lower legs due to inflammation of muscles, tendons, and tissue around the shin bone (tibia). Symptoms include lower leg pain, tenderness, and mild swelling, often felt on the inner lower part of the leg or front of the shin bone. Shin splints result from repeated stress on the shin bone, commonly seen in athletes, dancers, and individuals with flat feet or high arches. If left untreated, shin splints can progress to a stress fracture, resulting in little cracks in the bone. It’s important to rest and ice the affected area to avoid complications, 

Click the link to learn more: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17467-shin-splints

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Warts: Warts are painful soft tissue conditions caused by a virus that can appear anywhere on the skin. When they occur on the sole of the foot, they’re called plantar warts, and they’re more common in children and teenagers. The virus enters the skin through cuts or abrasions, often contracted from walking barefoot in warm, moist environments like communal bathing areas. Plantar warts can grow and spread, sometimes disappearing spontaneously but often recurring. They’re often mistaken for corns or calluses but have distinct characteristics, including a rough surface and black pinpoint spots in the center. Treatment is best done by a professional to avoid damaging healthy tissue. Consult a podiatrist if you notice any suspicious growths on your foot, as other more serious conditions can mimic warts. 

Click the link to learn more: https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=989

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Sesamoid Injury: Sesamoiditis is a type of tendonitis that affects the tendons and small sesamoid bones in the ball of the foot, particularly under the big toe joint. It occurs due to overuse of the tendons, often from activities like running, dancing, or wearing high heels. Symptoms include pain, difficulty bending the big toe, swelling, and bruising. Risk factors include engaging in repetitive stress activities, wearing high heels, having high arches or flat feet, and having gout. Diagnosis involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays, bone scans, or MRIs to confirm the condition and rule out other related injuries or conditions such as stress fractures or hallux rigidus.

Click the link to learn more:  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21671-sesamoiditis

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Stress Fractures of Metatarsal & Leg: A stress fracture is a small crack in one of your bones, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse of a particular part of your body. It’s a common injury among athletes and individuals engaged in physical work. Stress fractures most commonly affect weight-bearing bones in the lower body, such as the lower leg, foot, and heel. Symptoms include pain during physical activity, tenderness, and swelling near the affected bone. Stress fractures develop slowly over time due to repetitive motion without adequate rest, sudden increases in activity level, or changes in training surfaces or equipment. Factors like playing high-impact sports, certain health conditions, and structural foot issues can increase the risk of stress fractures.

Click the link to learn more:  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15841-stress-fractures

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain affecting around 2 million people each year. It happens when the tissue supporting the arch of your foot gets irritated and inflamed. This tissue, called the plantar fascia, connects your heel to the front of your foot.

The main causes of plantar fasciitis are excessive pressure and strain on the feet, often from activities like walking, running, or playing sports. Factors that can increase your risk include starting new activities, doing repetitive high-impact exercises, standing for long periods on hard surfaces, having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles, being overweight, and aging (typically between 40 to 60 years old).

Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest, which usually eases after walking a bit. Pain often increases after exercise rather than during it.

When you see a doctor for plantar fasciitis, they’ll check for signs like a high arch or flat foot, tenderness on the bottom of your foot near the heel, and limited upward movement in your ankle. They’ll also rule out other possible causes of heel pain, like Achilles tendonitis or stress fractures in the heel bone.

Click the link to learn more:  https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/plantar-fasciitis-and-bone-spurs

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Hammer Toes: A hammer toe is a contracture, or bending, of the toe at the first joint of the digit, called the proximal interphalangeal joint. This bending causes the toe to appear like an upside-down V when looked at from the side. Any toe can be involved, but the condition usually affects the second through fifth toes, known as the lesser digits. Hammer toes are more common in females than males.

There are two different types of hammer toes:

• Flexible Hammer Toes: These hammer toes are less serious because they can be diagnosed and treated while still in the developmental stage. They are called flexible hammer toes because they are still moveable at the joint.
• Rigid Hammer Toes: This variety is more developed and more serious than the flexible condition. Rigid hammer toes can be seen in patients with severe arthritis, for example, or in patients who wait too long to seek professional treatment. The tendons in a rigid hammer toe have become tight, and the joint misaligned and immobile, making surgery the usual course of treatment.

A hammer toe develops because of an abnormal balance of the muscles in the toes. This abnormal balance causes increased pressures on the tendons and joints of the toe, leading to its contracture. Heredity and trauma can also lead to the formation of a hammer toe. Arthritis is another factor, because the balance around the toe in people with arthritis is disrupted. Wearing shoes that are too tight and cause the toes to squeeze can also cause a hammer toe to form.

If you are worried that you may have hammer toes that are causing significant pain our doctors are here to help.

Typically, conservative treatment is initially attempted and is often successful; however, sometimes surgery is necessary to treat hammer toes.

Conservative treatment approaches for hammer toes can include alteration of footgear, over the counter or prescription pads and cushions to offer relief, orthotic shoe inserts to prevent the hammer toe from worsening, or regular trimming of corns and calluses associated with hammer toes.

Hammer toe surgery may involve removing a portion of one of the bones in the toe to realign the toe or could involve fusing the joints in the toe (see Fusions, above). In some cases, it may involve placing a temporary wire to hold the toes straight or a permanent implant in the toe to maintain realignment.

The doctors and staff will be happy to help you find the best solution for your feet, to relieve your toes of their pain and to get you back on your feet, pain free.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=1863

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Flat Foot Surgery: Flat foot, or fallen arches, is a condition characterized by a lack of arch at the bottom of the foot. Flat foot occurs when tendons that hold the joints of the foot together are loose, flattening the area where you would normally have an arch. People with flat feet experience the soles of their feet completely touching the floor when they stand and walk.

Being flat footed is common in infants and toddlers. As a baby grows over time, the tendons in the feet strengthen, helping to form a normal arch in the foot. But in some children, an arch never develops properly, which causes various problems.

In adults, flat feet may develop later as a result of an injury or wear and tear due to aging.

Flat foot pain can worsen with prolonged standing or activity. Symptoms include:

• Foot pain (most prevalent in the heel and arch area)
• Leg pain
• Back pain
• Swelling of the feet and ankles

Flat foot surgery typically involves the repair of loose tendons or realigning the bones in the foot.

Depending on the severity of your condition, we may perform a combination of the following surgeries to treat flat feet:

• Arthrodesis: Arthrodesis is another name for joint fusion surgery. By eliminating the space between the bones that would allow painful movement, fusing the bones in the foot together relieves the pain. To ensure the bones heal properly together, we also may do bone grafting, a surgical procedure that uses transplanted bone to repair damaged bones.
• Foot bone reconstruction surgery: Involves bone grafting and tendon transfer to create a new arch.
• Dorsal opening wedge osteotomy: A bone wedge or bone graft is placed at the top of the medial cuneiform bone located in the middle of the foot.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/orthopaedics/foot-and-ankle-pain/flat-foot-and-high-arches-treatment

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Minimally Invasive Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a technique used by foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons to correct specific foot and ankle conditions with very small incisions. This technique has gained attention among surgeons and patients alike due to its reported faster recovery time, smaller scars, and reduced postoperative opioid use.

Common foot and ankle conditions that can be treated using minimally invasive surgical techniques include bunions, hammertoes, big toe arthritis, and metatarsalgia.

It is important to note that not all patients are good candidates for minimally invasive surgery. If you have a foot or ankle condition, first consult with one of our foot and ankle surgeons to determine the best treatment option for you.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.aofas.org/news/press-releases/2020/05/27/what-is-minimally-invasive-foot-and-ankle-surgery

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Ankle Replacement versus Ankle Fusion: In ankle replacement surgery, damaged cartilage and bone are replaced with metal or plastic components, while ankle fusion involves fusing ankle joints to the leg bones to limit motion and reduce pain.

Symptoms of ankle osteoarthritis, such as pain, swelling, and stiffness, can severely affect mobility and quality of life. Treatment options range from pain management with medication and injections to physical therapy and surgical interventions.

Ultimately, personalized care and shared decision-making between patients and their healthcare providers are crucial in determining the most suitable approach for managing ankle osteoarthritis and improving overall quality of life.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/ankle-replacement-and-fusion-demonstrate-similar-effectiveness-for-osteoarthritis#What-is-ankle-osteoarthritis?

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Big Toe Joint Implant: Toe joint replacement, also known as toe arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at removing a damaged toe joint and replacing it with an artificial joint. Typically performed on the big toe, this surgery can alleviate pain and restore function to toes affected by injury, arthritis, or other conditions.

Click the link to learn more: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24891-toe-joint-replacement

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Compartment Syndrome Fasciotomy: Compartment syndrome occurs when excessive pressure builds up around muscles, restricting blood flow, oxygen, and nutrients, leading to severe pain and potential tissue damage. There are two types: acute, which is sudden and requires immediate medical attention, and chronic, which develops over time, often due to intense physical activities. Symptoms include swelling, pain, tightness, numbness, and tingling. Acute compartment syndrome is typically caused by severe injuries, while chronic compartment syndrome is often related to repetitive physical activities. Treatment for acute cases involves surgery called fasciotomy to relieve pressure, while chronic cases may require rest, medication, modified exercise routines, physical therapy, and orthotics.

Click the link to learn more: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15315-compartment-syndrome

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Exertional Compartment Syndrome: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is a musculoskeletal condition that occurs when exercise causes increased pressure within specific muscle compartments, most commonly in the lower legs. Symptoms include pain, tightness, numbness, weakness, and occasionally swelling during exercise. Pain typically subsides within 15 minutes of stopping activity but returns upon resuming exercise. CECS can be mistaken for shin splints. Risk factors include age, type of exercise (repetitive impact activities), and overtraining. While not life-threatening, CECS can limit physical activity and performance if left untreated. Prompt medical attention is advised if you experience symptoms while exercising.

Click the link to learn more: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-exertional-compartment-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20350830

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Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy affects the peripheral nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, disrupting automatic processes, touch sensation, and muscle control. It’s an umbrella term for nerve diseases affecting a specific subdivision of the nervous system, caused by various factors such as diabetes, alcohol use disorder, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, medications, tumors, genetics, infections, trauma, and vascular disorders. This condition can affect anyone, with risk increasing with age. It’s common, affecting about 2.4% of people globally. Symptoms vary widely and include motor symptoms like weakness, sensory symptoms like tingling and numbness, and autonomic symptoms like blood pressure changes. 

Click the link to learn more:  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14737-peripheral-neuropathy

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Laser Surgery Warts/Nails: 

Laser surgery is a significant advancement in dermatological treatment, particularly for addressing warts and onychomycosis (nail fungus). Laser treatments precisely target and eliminate warts by focusing on the affected tissue. Moreover, they offer potential improvement in the appearance of nails affected by onychomycosis. Laser surgery’s targeted approach and minimally invasive nature make it an effective option for providing relief to  persistent skin and nail conditions.

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/

Achilles Tendon Injuries: An Achilles tendon rupture is when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, tears either partially or completely. It usually happens suddenly during activities like sports, or from tripping or twisting the ankle. This injury is common among people aged 30 to 40, especially in men and those who engage in intense physical activity without regular training.

Causes of Achilles tendon rupture include sudden movements that stress the tendon, common during sports like soccer or basketball. It can also occur from accidents like tripping or stepping into a hole. Certain medications, like some antibiotics or steroid injections, may weaken the tendon and increase the risk of a tear.

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture include a popping sensation or sound in the back of the ankle, sharp pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and tenderness in the affected area.

Without proper treatment, an Achilles tendon rupture may not heal correctly, increasing the risk of future injuries. Diagnosis involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider, who may also use imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to assess the extent of the tear.

Click the link to learn more: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21703-achilles-tendon-rupture

Visit our locations to find a center near you: https://integratedfootandankle.com/locations/