Items filtered by date: February 2024

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Cuboid Syndrome and Its Causes

Cuboid syndrome, a relatively uncommon foot condition, refers to the dislocation, or subluxation, of the cuboid bone, which is one of the seven tarsal bones in the foot. This syndrome typically occurs when the ligaments supporting the cuboid bone become strained or injured, causing misalignment and dysfunction. The cuboid bone plays a vital role in maintaining the structure and stability of the midfoot, facilitating smooth movement and weight distribution during walking and running. Common causes of cuboid syndrome include overuse injuries, repetitive stress, and sudden trauma, such as ankle sprains or excessive pronation of the foot. Activities that involve repetitive movements, like dancing, running, or high-impact sports, increase the risk of developing cuboid syndrome. Additionally, individuals with structural abnormalities in the foot, such as high arches or flat feet, may be more susceptible to this condition. Recognizing the definition and causes of cuboid syndrome is essential for accurate diagnosis, and can be provided by a chiropodist. If you have lateral foot pain, it is suggested that you consult this type of medical professional who can confirm the diagnosis, and offer appropriate treatment options.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joint and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone in the foot become injured. If you think that you may have cuboid syndrome, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

The cuboid bone is one of the seven tarsal bones located in the foot. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone moves down and out of alignment with the other bone (calcaneus bone) in the joint of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can be the result of a sudden injury like an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly over time from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures. 

Symptoms

The most common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot which may worsen with activity. 

Other possible symptoms include: 

  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot

  • Swelling

  • Sensitivity on the bottom of the foot

  • Reduced range of motion  

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can diagnose cuboid syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of the foot. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, often fail to show the dislocated cuboid. 

Treatment

Treatment often includes resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taping, wearing orthotic inserts, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. The chiropodist may also be able to manipulate the dislocated bone back into alignment.

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

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Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.

Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.

Tuesday, 20 February 2024 00:00

Diagnosis of Plantar Fibromatosis

Plantar fibromatosis is a non-cancerous condition that affects the connective tissue in the foot's plantar aponeurosis, which is the tissue at the bottom of the foot. It is part of a group of similar conditions, including Peyronie's and Dupuytren's diseases, which were first described back in 1610 by Plater. In 1897, a German physician named George Ledderhose gave it the name Ledderhose disease. Diagnosis involves finding nodules or lumps in the central or medial bands of the plantar fascia in the foot. This condition develops slowly and only when pain and swelling occur in the inner part of the foot, does one seek care. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist who can properly diagnose the cause and provide treatment options.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

  • Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet

  • Arthritis

  • Flat feet

  • Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

  • Heel pain

  • Arch pain

  • Toe pain

  • Ball of foot pain

  • Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality

  • Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

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

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Tuesday, 13 February 2024 00:00

How High Heels Can Affect the Feet

Are high heels your footwear of choice, despite their discomfort? if so, you not alone. A survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association found that 42 percent of women prioritize style over comfort when it comes to shoes, with a whopping 73 percent already experiencing foot issues as a result. High heels are notorious for constricting the foot and placing excessive stress on certain areas, such as the ball off the foot. Long-term wearing of high heels can lead to bunions, corns, calluses, and hammertoes. However, there are ways to mitigate their effects. Ensure your shoes fit properly to avoid undue pressure, opt for open-toe designs to relieve stress, and invest in custom inserts for cushioning and weight distribution. Thicker heels can help to improve stability and may reduce strain. Additionally, consider the height and slope of the heel. Lower heels and moderate slopes can lessen the strain on your feet. If you have foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam and treatment options.

High heels have been in style for centuries, but unfortunately, they have also been damaging feet for centuries. If you would like to learn more about how high heels can hurt your feet, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

High heels can cause a variety of problems, including:

  • Foot and ankle pain

  • Foot and ankle injuries

  • Toe pain and deformities 

  • Gait abnormalities

  • Achilles tendonitis 

  • Changes in posture

  • Difficulty balancing

  • Leg, hip, and back pain

If you are reluctant to abandon your high heels, you can still wear them, but should take measures to minimize damage to your feet: 

  • Wear shoes with heels no higher than 2 inches

  • Choose properly fitted shoes

  • Choose shoes with a wide toe box

  • Wear high heels infrequently 

  • When wearing high heels, take them off periodically to stretch and relax your feet 

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

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Tuesday, 06 February 2024 00:00

Development of Ingrown Toenails

The occurrence of ingrown toenails stems from a combination of factors that can make even the simplest of tasks, like walking, a painful ordeal. Typically, ingrown toenails develop when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to irritation, inflammation, and discomfort. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, improper nail trimming techniques, or inherent nail shape abnormalities can contribute to this condition. When nails are cut too short or rounded instead of straight across, the likelihood of developing an ingrown toenail increases. Additionally, injury or trauma to the toe can prompt the nail to grow inward. Poor foot hygiene and fungal infections further exacerbate the risk. Understanding the hows and whys behind ingrown toenails emphasizes the importance of proper nail care, choosing comfortable footwear, and promptly addressing any signs of infection. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is an Ingrown Toenail? 

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include: 

  • Pain

  • Swelling

  • Redness

  • Warmth

  • Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area. 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail. 

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers. 

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

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