Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Foot pain is caused by many factors including, aging, standing on your feet for extended periods of time, ill-fitting shoes, hereditary and genetic disorders, excessive exercise, trauma, and diseases. However, one of the most common foot disorders is caused by injury to the nerves and tissue fibers of the ball of the foot and toes called neuromas.
Neuromas are pinched nerves or nerve tumors that grow increasingly painful. They can even cause tingling and numbness in the area. The causes are trauma to the foot, injury, and genetics, but the most common cause of neuromas is wearing shoes that are too tight or too high. So for all of the women out there wearing extremely high heels or pointy shoes, you may be on the cusp of a painful dilemma.
If you are noticing any foot discomfort or changes, it’s critical to see a podiatrist. Dr. Gavin has been practicing podiatric medicine for many years and is an expert in his field and a leader to his peers.
The symptoms and details of neuromas are discomfort in the ball of the foot, tight shoes, high heels, and excessive sports or overactivity. Fortunatley, neuromas are noncancerous, but they do cause a lot of pain. Neuromas involve an overgrowth of nerve tissue that forms a firm bundle usually between the third and fourth toe.
Treatment
Typically a conservative approach is the first step. Your podiatrist will recommend the RICE method, which consists of resting, icing, compression, and elevation. Your physician may also prescribe NSAIDs or other forms of pain relief; along with orthotics we’re bracing methods. Self-massage and soaking the feet in warm Epsom salt water often helps to relieve the painful discomfort of neuromas temporarily. Your doctor may also suggest steroid injections to help control your level of discomfort
It’s crucial that you do not wear high heels of 2 inches or more if you are experiencing neuromas it’s best to wear a wide foot based shoe that has a small wedge or flat cushioned sole. If resting and applying ice do not relieve your pain there are surgical methods that will alleviate the Neuroma and will allow you to live a freer lifestyle.
The surgery is quick and simple as the doctor minimally invasively repairs the nerves through a tiny port in the ball of your foot. The recovery time is just a few weeks, usually 2-6 depending on your specific needs and compliance level.
Dr. Gavin, Southwest Florida’s Prominent Podiatrist
Dr. Gavin earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Niagara University in Niagara Falls, NY. He is a graduate of Kent State University College of
Podiatric Medicine located in Independence, OH and completed his surgical residency at Humana Specialty Hospital in Memphis TN.
Dr. Gavin is board certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
He has a solo practice in Fort Myers, FL where he has practiced since 1986 including Shell Point Village retirement community for 21 years. Dr. Gavin has lectured at Niagara University, NY, Midwest Podiatry Conference and the APMA national podiatry meeting. Dr. Gavin specializes in diabetic foot management, trauma, and limb preservation surgery.
After returning from Knoxville, TN, where he worked closely with vascular surgeons specializing in limb revascularization and reconstruction in foot surgery, Dr. Gavin continues to perform advanced podiatric care in Southwest Florida area.
Now Accepting New Patients.
To schedule an appointment, please call:
239-887-4621
www.DrDavidGavin.com
15620 McGregor Blvd
Suite 125 Fort Myers, FL 33908
