Items filtered by date: August 2025

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop properly. Variants include flexible flat feet, where the arch appears when not standing, rigid flat feet with no visible arch, adult acquired flat feet that develop over time, and vertical talus, a rare congenital condition, causing a “rocker-bottom” appearance of the foot. Causes may involve genetics, injury, arthritis, or muscle and tendon dysfunction. Symptoms include foot pain, swelling, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods. A podiatrist can assess the type of flat feet you have, provide custom orthotics, recommend strengthening exercises, and address any underlying conditions. If flat feet are causing discomfort or mobility issues, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM from Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This pressure can result from injury, inflammation, flat feet, or conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Symptoms include burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain in the foot and ankle. Among the risk factors are repetitive stress, poor foot mechanics, and prolonged standing. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through physical exams and imaging, then create a treatment plan to reduce nerve pressure and manage discomfort. If you experience persistent foot pain or numbness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

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

While convenient for casual wear, flip-flops can negatively affect gait and overall foot health. Their flat, thin soles provide little to no impact absorption, increasing stress on joints with each step. The lack of arch support often leads to excessive pronation, which may contribute to pain in the heels, ankles, or knees. Additionally, gripping the flip-flops with the toes can also cause strain and cause fatigue, especially during long periods of wear. A podiatrist can evaluate how your footwear choices affect your movement and recommend supportive alternatives or custom orthotics. If you experience foot discomfort after wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Yacara Tabb, DPM from Optimum Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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.

Caring for feet becomes even more important with age. Seniors often experience thinning skin, reduced circulation, and changes in foot shape that make them more vulnerable to discomfort, injury, and infection. Even simple tasks like trimming toenails or checking for calluses can become more difficult. Regular foot care helps prevent complications such as fungal infections, ulcers, and falls caused by poor balance. Wearing supportive footwear and clean, dry socks can also make a big difference in maintaining foot health. Daily checks for changes in skin color, swelling, or pain are especially important for seniors with diabetes or circulatory issues. If walking becomes uncomfortable, if nails appear thickened or discolored, or if wounds take longer to heal, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.