Items filtered by date: June 2023

Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00

How Is Cuboid Syndrome Treated?

The cuboid bone is located on the outside of the foot, and cuboid syndrome can develop if this bone becomes injured or displaced. People who have suffered an ankle sprain may get cuboid syndrome, in addition to athletes who are involved in tennis or basketball. The quick stop and go of the foot while participating in these types of activities may cause the cuboid bone to shift. Cuboid syndrome may also affect ballet dancers who have poor alignment, possibly causing pressure on the foot. Common symptoms that many patients experience can include severe pain, and their gait, or walking pattern may be altered. Treatment can include wearing a specific type of orthotic and performing certain exercises several times throughout the day. Additionally, cuboid syndrome may be treated by manipulating the cuboid bone back into place. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about All About Cuboid Syndrome
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 00:00

Stationary Bikes and the Feet

Working out on a stationary bike can provide good cardiovascular fitness and burn calories, without incurring joint pain other forms of exercise can cause. However, while riding on a stationary bike, people can suffer from foot tingling, numbness, and pain. This can be brought on by constriction of nerves or a lack of blood supply to the feet. Causes of this sensation can be as simple as shoelaces being tied too tight, or the pressure from the bike pedals pressing on the small nerves between the toes. Additionally, it may happen from an electrolyte imbalance, or a vitamin deficiency.  More serious health conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or Raynaud’s phenomenon can also cause tingling of the feet. Things to check for can include the fit of shoes, and making sure there is plenty of room for the toes to move freely in. The shoelaces may also need to be loosened, in addition to the adjustments of the seat and pedal distance. Pressure from the seat should be on the sit bones, and the pedal distance should allow for a small amount of bend in the knee when the foot is extended. Rest may help if the tingling is from overuse and it may be beneficial to wear orthotics if it is from nerve pressure. If you are experiencing tingling or pain in your feet while riding a stationary bike, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who determine the underlying cause, and obtain treatment for relief.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 13 June 2023 00:00

Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

The nerve found between the third and fourth toes can be affected by a foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. This is an ailment that compresses or irritates the nerve and is considered to be benign. The majority of patients who develop Morton’s neuroma have severe pain and discomfort, and it can be difficult to walk. Morton's neuroma may be common in women who frequently wear high heels. These types of shoes have limited room in the toe area and this can cause the toes to shift toward each other, affecting the nerve. The pain is often felt in the ball of the foot and can be noticed while standing and walking. Additionally, a burning or tingling sensation can affect the toes, and it may feel like there is a small pebble in the shoe or sock. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can perform a diagnosis and offer the proper treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Troy Wilde, DPM of Practice. 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 Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What is Morton's Neuroma?
Wednesday, 07 June 2023 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00

Jumping Rope and Ankle Sprains

Spraining the ankle is certainly no joking matter. When an individual twists or rolls their ankle awkwardly, the ligaments or bands of tissue can be torn, and it is said that the ankle is sprained. There are many ways in which a person might sprain their ankle. For example, a person could sprain their ankle while jumping rope. Since jumping rope requires a person to jump constantly, the feet might land awkwardly at some point. Jumping rope can therefore make one more susceptible to suffering torn ligaments. If you are someone that enjoys frequently jumping rope, then it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for more information. A podiatrist is a foot specialist that can help you address any problems you might have with your feet and ankles.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains

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