Blog

Tuesday, 11 April 2023

Cuboid Syndrome Risk Factors

Although cuboid syndrome may not be as well-known as conditions such as plantar fasciitis to novices to the field of podiatry, it is still a widespread foot condition that is important to be aware of. Cuboid syndrome can develop in an individual when the cuboid bone, located on the outside of the center of the foot, moves out of alignment. As a result, a patient may experience some amount of pain. There are several risk factors that are associated with cuboid syndrome, which may make an individual more predisposed to developing the condition. Namely, being overweight can increase one’s chance of developing cuboid syndrome. Also, spraining the foot or training on surfaces that are uneven can increase the risk of cuboid syndrome. Additionally, wearing ill-fitting shoes can make cuboid syndrome more likely. If you believe that you might have cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about All About Cuboid Syndrome
Tuesday, 04 April 2023

Why Does My Toe Hurt?

Toe pain can be the result of an injury. A broken toe can cause toe pain and may affect the skin, nerves, and blood vessels. Toe pain may also cause a burning sensation or it may feel numb. Ingrown toenails, bunions, and arthritis are leading causes of toe pain, and some of these conditions may lead to getting an infection if prompt medical attention is not received. Additionally, the foot condition known as hammertoe may cause toe pain which may happen from calluses that form on top of the deformed joints. Gout can be a debilitating foot condition characterized by intense pain in the joints of the big toe. Gout can occur due to excess uric acid in the blood, which converts to crystals and affects the big toe. If you have toe pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can pinpoint the cause and offer you the correct treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain
Tuesday, 28 March 2023

Bony Growths on Heels

A heel spur is a small growth that forms from extra calcium deposits on the heel bone of the foot. The deposits often stretch from the heel bone to the arch area. They can be quite painful and interfere with normal functioning. Causes of heel spur development include wearing ill-fitting shoes, such as high heels, where pressure is transferred from the heel to the front of the foot. Having flat feet can also lead to the development of heel spurs due to increased pressure on the heel. Bruising can also be a cause for heel spurs because of repeated trauma on the heel. A stone bruise is a particular type of bruise most apt to turn into a heel spur. Such bruises are most common among athletes and runners. The activities can cause bruises to the fatty tissue, fibrous tissue, and heel pad located under the heel bone. When the heel pad wears down from repeated stress, there is less protection, and calcium deposits can form, which in turn can develop into heel spurs. If you have a heel spur and it is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
Tuesday, 21 March 2023

Causes of Bunions

A hard lump on the side of the toe may be a bunion. It is considered to be a deformity, and large bunions may cause difficulty while wearing shoes. Women can be prone to developing bunions as a result of the high heels that are worn. They generally provide little room for the toes to move freely in, and this may cause the side of the big toe to rub on the shoe. Some patients notice their toes shifting toward each other, as the bunion may cause this misalignment. Corns and calluses may develop on top of the bunion, and putting a protective pad over it may bring relief. Pain may be caused by a bunion, and the toe may become numb or have a burning sensation. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist, who can offer you relief solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions
Page 18 of 167

Connect With Us

scroll to top