Browser Questions

Following are representative versions of emails submitted to podiatrychannel and their responses. Each question below has been revised to represent several questions we received on the same topic and to ensure the anonymity of those who submitted them.

This information is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider.

Please see our website disclaimer for more information.

Q: My mother is planning on having surgery for tarsal tunnel and bone spur on her right foot. I would like to know how successful is this operation and its side effects.
A: Thank you for contacting podiatrychannel. We hope you found our information about tarsal tunnel syndrome helpful. Here is an additional link for reliable information regarding tarsal tunnel syndrome treatment.

Q: I wanted to know how much an off the rack shoe inserts (thin black foam on top, hard cork-like bottom) with a ¼ inch lift would approximately cost?
A: We are sorry, but podiatrychannel does not provide medical devices or products. There are a number of online companies that do, as well as a number of retail stores, medical supply stores, and pharmacies that sell these inserts. A general Internet search for "shoe inserts" should prove helpful. For more information about the different types of orthotics, please see our orthotic information.

Q: Where can I find Morton's Neuroma pads for my foot? My physician diagnosed and I have tried to find the pads for it at my local pharmacies to no avail.
A: We hope that you found our information about Morton's neuroma treatment to be helpful. A qualified physician or pharmacist should be able to provide recommendations for ordering or purchasing these pads. There are also a number of online resources that provide them.

Q: I recently injured both my ankles. It's probably just a couple of sprains, but I've been taking aspirin/ibuprofen for a few days now, and it hasn't helped. Also, it's really hard for me to walk, especially up and down stairs. Should I get this checked out, or is it something that will go away on its own?
A: Ankle injuries are very common and require proper treatment to prevent recurrence. Please see a qualified physician as soon as possible for the medical care you deserve.

Q: My son (age 10) has a short 4th toe, which is more pronounced on his left foot. I would like to have surgery to correct it, but I am concerned with complications. Would you be able to recommend a board-certified surgeon and let me know if there are any risk factors involved?
A: The condition you describe is called brachymetatarsia. A qualified pediatrician, as well as our DPMLocator feature are good sources for finding a podiatrist in your area.

Q: I have a question concerning the big toe on my left foot. I've had athlete's foot in the past, a few times. My big toenail changed colors and grows thick so when I clip it, I have to clip low. It looks really dry and ugly, and sometimes it smells when I cut it. If I don't clip it, it starts to hurt. I have also noticed my right toe starting to change.
A: Thank you for contacting podiatrychannel. Please see a physician for diagnosis and treatment. Thickening, discoloration, and splitting of the toenails may be caused by a fungal infection called onychomycosis. To read more, please see our onychomycosis information.