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Morton’s neuroma is a painful thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve in the ball of the foot. It is benign, meaning it is not cancerous. The condition usually develops between the third and fourth toes, although it can also form between the second and third toes. Pressure on the nerve can cause burning pain, tingling, or numbness. Some patients describe feeling as though a pebble is trapped beneath the foot or a sock is bunched under the toes. Symptoms can spread into nearby toes and become worse with standing or activity.

The exact reason Morton’s neuroma begins is not always clear. Wearing high-heeled shoes that have a narrow toe box can squeeze the front of the foot and increase pressure on the nerve. Running and other high-impact activities can also irritate this area. Certain foot shapes or movement problems may place added stress on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist examines the painful area and gently presses the sides of the foot to check whether this brings on the symptoms. X-rays can rule out a fracture or another bone problem. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be ordered when the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on easing pressure and calming nerve irritation. The podiatrist may recommend shoes with a wide toe box, a low heel, and proper support. Custom orthotics can improve how pressure is distributed across the foot. Special padding can also reduce stress near the affected nerve. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the podiatrist may provide an injection to reduce pain and inflammation. When these treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery may be considered to create more room for the nerve or remove the damaged section. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. 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 offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot wounds require prompt medical attention because they can become more serious if they do not heal properly. Even a small cut, blister, or sore may develop into a larger problem when bacteria enter the damaged skin or healing is delayed. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve damage face a greater risk of complications, because they may not notice an injury right away. Pressure on the feet from walking and standing can also slow the healing process. Since the feet support the body's weight every day, wounds often need careful monitoring to prevent infection and protect healthy tissue. A professional evaluation is important to determine the severity of the wound and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early podiatry care may also help reduce the risk of long-term complications and preserve foot health.

Symptoms of a foot wound vary depending on the cause and its severity. Many people notice redness, swelling, or pain around the injured area. Others experience drainage or skin that does not appear to be healing as expected. In some cases, an open sore may become deeper or show signs of infection over time. Delayed healing should never be ignored because it may indicate an underlying medical condition or reduced blood flow to the area. Persistent wounds can interfere with walking, limit daily activities, and increase the risk of more serious foot problems. Prompt evaluation allows treatment to begin before the wound becomes more difficult to manage.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating wounds that affect the feet and ankles. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the wound, checks circulation, and looks for signs of infection or tissue damage. Treatment focuses on promoting healthy healing, protecting the affected area, and addressing conditions that may slow recovery. Ongoing monitoring also helps identify changes early and supports better long-term foot health. If you are experiencing a foot wound, delayed healing, or signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. The skin beside the nail may look irritated or raised, while the nail edge can appear buried under the skin. In more advanced cases, drainage or infection may develop.

Several factors can contribute to ingrown toenails. Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners may encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight shoes can also create pressure around the toes. Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails because of naturally curved nails, repeated toe injuries, or nail changes. Recognizing these risk factors can help reduce future problems. Proper nail trimming and comfortable footwear may lower pressure around the affected toe.

When an ingrown toenail keeps returning or causes significant pain, a podiatrist may recommend surgery. A partial nail avulsion removes the portion of the nail growing into the skin while leaving the remaining nail in place. A total nail avulsion removes the entire nail and may be considered for certain conditions. A podiatrist may also perform ablation of the nail matrix, which prevents the treated nail portion from growing back. The procedure selected depends on the nail and individual needs.

During treatment, a podiatrist evaluates the toe, checks for infection, and determines the appropriate procedure. Afterward, the toe is dressed and home-care instructions are provided to support healing. Patients may be advised to keep pressure away from the toe and attend follow-up visits. If you have painful ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include minor surgery. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. 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 offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause sudden and intense joint pain. It often affects the big toe, although it may also develop in other toes, the ankle, or the knee. Gout develops when uric acid builds up and forms needle-like crystals inside a joint. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down substances called purines. When the kidneys do not remove enough uric acid, these crystals may collect and trigger inflammation. A gout attack often begins suddenly, frequently at night, and can cause severe pain and swelling.

Gout attacks may occur only once or return periodically. Without proper treatment, repeated attacks can affect more joints, last longer, and become more severe. Some people eventually develop hard deposits of uric acid crystals, called tophi, around joints or in other tissues. Several factors can increase the likelihood of gout, including family history, certain chronic health problems, and some medications. Because gout symptoms can resemble other forms of arthritis, an accurate diagnosis is important. Medical evaluation may include a physical examination, blood testing, or analysis of fluid taken from the affected joint.

When gout affects the feet, a podiatrist can evaluate painful joints and determine how symptoms are affecting walking and mobility. A podiatrist can also help distinguish gout-related foot pain from other problems that may cause similar symptoms. Treatment depends on the frequency and severity of gout attacks. Medical care may include medications that reduce inflammation during a flare or lower uric acid to help prevent future complications. Managing gout can help protect joints and preserve normal movement. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment may reduce the risk of long-term joint damage and recurring pain. If sudden pain, swelling, or tenderness develops in the big toe or another foot joint, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.