Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve between the toes. It often develops from repeated pressure on the forefoot and is linked to wearing tight shoes, having flat feet, bunions, or high foot arches. This pressure irritates the nerve and leads to symptoms such as toe cramping, burning sensations, or sharp pain between the third and fourth toes. Many people describe the feeling as walking on a pebble. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide custom padding or orthotics, recommend better footwear, and offer treatments that reduce inflammation and discomfort. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM of Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Plantar fasciitis often begins with a sharp heel pain that is strongest during the first steps of the day, but ignoring these early symptoms can lead to further complications. When the fascia, the band of fibrous tissue in the sole of the foot running from the heel to the toes, remains irritated over time, the body may respond by developing a heel spur, which can add to discomfort while standing and walking. People may also change the way they move to avoid pain, placing extra stress on the ankles, knees, hips, or back. This shift can create new areas of soreness and make daily activities feel more difficult. Chronic inflammation may develop as well, making the heel tender even with mild activity. Early care can prevent these issues. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, provide targeted treatment, and guide recovery before complications progress. If your heel pain is becoming more persistent or affecting movement, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM from Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone due to long-term stress on the foot. It often develops when the plantar fascia becomes strained, leading to inflammation and calcium buildup. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort when standing or walking. Among the common causes are repetitive impact, flat feet, high arches, or wearing improper footwear. Risk factors include obesity, aging, and activities that place constant pressure on the heel. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, provide imaging, if needed, and recommend such treatments as supportive shoes, custom orthotics, stretching plans, and pain relief strategies. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose heel spurs and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM from Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Workplace falls are a common cause of injury and can result from damaged ladders, slippery conditions, unmarked elevation changes, or leaning over guardrails. These accidents can lead to serious foot injuries such as sprains, fractures, or chronic pain that affect mobility and work performance. Prevention begins with choosing the right ladder for the job, using hazard warning signs, and keeping flooring clean and in good condition. A podiatrist can help treat foot injuries sustained from falls through diagnostic imaging, proper care, and targeted exercises to restore strength and stability. If you have experienced a fall affecting your lower extremities, or have lingering foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment to ensure a safe and healthy recovery.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Yacara Tabb, DPM from Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. A podiatrist can relieve pain, treat infection, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence through proper nail trimming and footwear advice. When conservative treatments such as soaking or trimming are not effective, a minor surgical procedure may be performed to remove part or all of the affected nail. This ingrown toenail surgery is usually done under local anesthesia, and recovery typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the extent of the nail removal and aftercare. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss whether surgery is a right treatment option for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM of Optimum Foot Care. 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 Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing pain and swelling due to joint misalignment. Common causes include genetics, improper footwear, and structural foot issues. The most frequent type is hallux valgus, where the big toe angles toward the second toe. A tailor’s bunion affects the outer side of the foot near the little toe, while adolescent bunions develop in teenagers due to inherited foot structure. Diagnosis involves a physical exam and imaging to assess bone alignment. A podiatrist can provide relief through custom orthotics, footwear advice, or surgical correction. If you notice signs of a bunion developing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM of Optimum Foot Care. 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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 Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot corns are small, hardened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction, often caused by wearing tight shoes or abnormal foot structure. They commonly form on the tops or sides of toes or on weight-bearing areas of the foot. While corns are the body’s way of protecting itself, they can become painful and make walking difficult. Wearing properly fitted shoes with adequate toe space, using protective pads, and keeping the skin moisturized can help prevent their return. Never try to cut or remove a corn at home, as this can lead to infection, especially in people with diabetes or poor circulation. If you have a persistent or painful corn, it is suggested that you schedule an evaluation by a podiatrist, who can safely remove the thickened skin, identify the underlying cause, and recommend footwear or orthotic adjustments to relieve pressure and keep feet healthy.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM of Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Fungal nails, medically known as onychomycosis, are caused by fungi infecting the nail bed. This is often due to warm, moist environments, poor foot hygiene, or minor nail injuries. Symptoms typically include thickened, discolored nails that may appear yellow, white, or brown. The toenails can become brittle, crumbly, or distorted, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor. Although fungal nails are often painless, they can cause discomfort when wearing shoes or walking. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose fungal toenail infections through a physical examination and laboratory testing. Treatment options include topical antifungal medication, oral antifungal drugs, or professional nail debridement to remove infected tissue. Because fungal toenail infections can worsen over time and spread to other nails, early diagnosis and treatment are important. To protect your toenail health and prevent further complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM of Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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