Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems within the ankle joint. Through small incisions, a camera and specialized instruments allow a podiatric surgeon to view and repair damaged tissue. Common causes for this procedure include ankle pain, instability, cartilage damage, loose bone fragments, or scar tissue. Reasons to have ankle arthroscopy include unresolved pain, limited movement, or repeated injuries that do not improve with conservative care. A podiatrist can determine if this procedure is right for you by conducting a thorough evaluation and imaging studies. If ankle discomfort is affecting your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore whether arthroscopy can help restore mobility and comfort.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our doctors of Apache Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out as the toe shifts inward. They often result from genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, flat feet, or arthritis. Bunions are more common in women, likely due to fashion footwear like high heels and pointed shoes. Over time, the misalignment worsens, leading to pain and inflammation. Symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the foot, swelling, redness, soreness, and limited movement of the big toe. It may feel like a dull, aching pain that worsens with walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist may suggest shoe modifications, padding, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery, called a bunionectomy, may be necessary to realign the toe joint.  If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of Apache Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Vesicular athlete’s foot is a type of fungal infection that causes painful blisters that form along the arch or bottom of the foot. Vesicular athlete’s foot tends to develop suddenly, especially in people who wear tight, enclosed footwear for long hours, such as work boots. Blisters may appear in clusters, some intact and others already ruptured, and can cause pain when pressure is applied. Although some people notice improvement without care, untreated infections may continue to return. Vesicular athlete’s foot is often caused by a particular fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments like sweaty socks or damp shoes. Diagnosis usually involves examining a skin sample under a microscope to confirm a fungal infection. A podiatrist may also perform skin scrapings or cultures to identify the type of fungus and guide treatment. If you have recurring athlete's foot infections, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our doctors from Apache Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel on the inner side of the ankle. This pressure can lead to tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot or ankle. Causes include flat feet, injury, swelling, or underlying conditions like diabetes or arthritis. Risk factors include repetitive stress, improper footwear, and prolonged standing. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition using physical exams and imaging, then provide treatment options, such as orthotics or medication. If you notice ongoing foot pain or numbness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome. 

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our doctors of Apache Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.