Morton's neuroma develops when scar tissue and nerve endings thicken around a nerve, usually between the third and fourth toes. This painful condition affects the front of the foot and can make every step uncomfortable, especially while walking or wearing tight shoes. Burning pain in the ball of the foot is one of the most common signs. Tingling and numbness in the toes also occur. Many patients describe the feeling as if they are standing on a small pebble or a folded sock inside the shoe. Symptoms usually become worse when wearing tight shoes or shoes that lack proper support. The discomfort can gradually make walking, exercising, and even standing for long periods of time more difficult.

Several factors increase the risk of developing Morton's neuroma. Repeated pressure on the front of the foot is one of the leading causes. Shoes with a narrow toe box can squeeze the nerves between the toes. High-heeled shoes also increase pressure on the ball of the foot. Foot problems like bunions or flat feet can change the way weight is distributed across the foot. Sports or activities that involve repeated pushing off the toes can also contribute to irritation. 

A podiatrist can perform a careful examination of the foot and review your symptoms. Imaging tests may be ordered to help confirm the diagnosis or rule out other foot conditions. The podiatrist then creates a treatment plan based on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Professional care includes custom orthotics to reduce pressure on the affected nerve. Padding and shoe recommendations can improve comfort while walking. In some cases, injections help reduce inflammation surrounding the irritated nerve. When symptoms continue despite other treatments, surgery can remove the painful nerve or relieve pressure around it. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Adler Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Hallandale and North Miami Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain can make walking, standing, and daily activities uncomfortable. It may develop suddenly after an injury or appear slowly from repeated stress on the foot. One common cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves irritation of the strong band of tissue that supports the arch and connects to the heel. Pain may also come from Achilles tendon irritation, bursitis, or a heel fracture. Symptoms can include sharp pain under the heel, aching at the back of the heel, or discomfort that worsens after activity. Pain that continues or returns often means the heel needs professional attention. Early evaluation can help identify the cause before the problem becomes harder to treat.

A podiatrist can examine the heel and determine what may be causing the pain. During the visit, the podiatrist checks the location of discomfort, foot movement, and signs of swelling or injury. Imaging may be recommended if a fracture, bone spur, or deeper injury is suspected. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include custom orthotics, medical therapies, or advanced care when needed. A podiatrist can also evaluate how foot structure and walking patterns may be adding stress to the heel. This helps create a treatment plan that supports healing and improves comfort.

Professional heel pain treatment can help restore mobility and protect long-term foot health. Delaying care may allow irritation, inflammation, or injury to worsen over time. A podiatrist can monitor progress and adjust treatment as symptoms improve. Proper diagnosis is especially important, because other heel conditions can feel similar but require different care. Whether pain is under the heel or near the back of the ankle, podiatry care can help address the source of discomfort. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Adler Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Hallandale and North Miami Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls in older people are a major health concern that can lead to serious injury, reduced independence, and decreased quality of life.  Many falls are linked to reduced ankle strength, poor balance, and changes in foot structure that occur with aging. The ankles can be strengthened by practicing specific foot stretches, making the overall foot stronger. The feet and ankles play a critical role in stability, as they provide the base of support for movement and posture. When strength and coordination decline, the risk of falling increases, especially during walking or changes in direction.

Common symptoms associated with fall risk include unsteady walking, weakness in the lower legs, and difficulty maintaining balance when standing still. Some individuals may notice slower reaction time or a tendency to shuffle while walking. Ankle pain from falling may also develop, leading to further instability and hesitation during movement. These symptoms often create a cycle where reduced confidence leads to less activity, which then weakens muscles and increases fall risk over time. Early recognition of these signs is important for prevention.

Risk factors for falls in older adults include decreased muscle strength, joint stiffness, and poor flexibility. Conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, and vision changes can affect coordination and awareness of surroundings. Wearing improper footwear and uneven surfaces further increase the likelihood of losing balance. Weak ankles and limited range of motion reduce the ability to adjust quickly during movement. These factors combined make it more difficult to maintain stability, especially in challenging environments or during sudden movements.

Improving ankle strength and balance can significantly reduce fall risk. Simple exercises such as ankle circles, heel raises, and gentle stretches help improve flexibility and stability. Balance training, including standing on one foot or practicing controlled movements, enhances coordination and confidence. Wearing supportive footwear and having a safe home environment also play an important role in prevention. If you have injured your ankle from falling, or if balance concerns are present, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions. 

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 one of our podiatrists from Adler Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Hallandale and North Miami Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a progressive infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. It typically begins when microscopic organisms enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. In the early stage, the infection may appear as a small white or yellow spot under the nail surface. At this point, symptoms are mild and often overlooked, with little to no discomfort. This stage can last several weeks to a few months, depending on hygiene, footwear, and immune response. Early identification is important because treatment is more effective before the infection spreads deeper into the nail.

As the condition progresses into the moderate stage, visible changes become more noticeable. The nail may thicken, discolor, and develop a brittle or crumbly texture. Yellow-brown staining and slight lifting of the nail from the nail bed are common. Mild discomfort may develop, especially while wearing shoes. This stage can persist for several months and is often when patients begin seeking care. Without treatment, the fungus continues to spread, making the nail harder to manage and increasing the risk of complications.

In the advanced stage, toenail fungus can cause significant nail deformity and discomfort. The nail may become severely thickened and dark in color. In some cases, the nail may partially detach from the nail bed or emit an unpleasant odor. Pain may occur with walking or pressure, especially in tight footwear. This stage may take a year or longer to fully develop and often requires more aggressive treatment. The infection can also spread to other nails or surrounding skin if not properly addressed.

Risk factors play a major role in fungal progression. Individuals with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or poor circulation are more susceptible. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, excessive sweating, and walking barefoot in communal areas increase exposure. Older adults are at higher risk due to slower nail growth and reduced immunity. Proper foot hygiene and early care can slow or prevent progression. If you notice changes in your toenails, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

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 one of our podiatrists of Adler Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Hallandale and North Miami Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.