Items filtered by date: January 2019

Monday, 21 January 2019 00:00

Figuring out If You Have Cuboid Syndrome

The most common cause for pain in the side of your foot is cuboid syndrome and it occurs when the cuboid, a small bone in the outer foot, is dislocated. This can be a result of an injury to the or just simply repetitive movements that put stress on the outer foot. Unfortunately, this syndrome can sometimes be hard for doctors to diagnose because cuboid misalignments may not show up on x-rays or MRIs. However, these tests do help your doctor eliminate other possible reasons for the outer foot pain. One way doctors diagnose cuboid syndrome is by moving the foot inwards and outwards to see exactly where the pain is stemming from. After receiving a proper diagnosis, this syndrome is easily fixed. Oftentimes, a podiatrist can efficiently relocate the bone, which is followed by only minor aching. If you are feeling pain on the side of your foot and suspect that it may be cuboid syndrome, then it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist to receive effective 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 Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot 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 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 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 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 office located in Florence, Alabama . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

Where Are the Sesamoid Bones Located?

The structure of the foot consists of 26 bones. Two of these bones are referred to as the sesamoid bones, and their location is under the joint of the bottom of the big toe. The condition known as sesamoiditis occurs if these bones should become inflamed and irritated, which may be caused by an injury. Many patients have noticed symptoms that may include pain while standing, or severe discomfort if the toe is pulled in an upward motion. A proper diagnosis is generally necessary in confirming this condition, and this may consist of having an X-ray or MRI performed. There are several forms of effective treatment, including wearing shoes that offer additional cushioning, resting the foot, or using custom orthotics. These methods may provide a portion of the desired relief, and it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist for additional treatment options.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames of Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

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Monday, 07 January 2019 00:00

What Is Plantar Hyperhidrosis?

The medical condition that is referred to as planter hyperhidrosis is defined as excessive sweating of the feet. Many patients may experience extreme discomfort, and this may be a result of shoes and socks that are frequently wet. There are several symptoms that may be associated with this ailment, and these may include foot infections such as toenail fungus or athlete’s foot, blisters on the feet that may come from excessive friction, or a strong and unpleasant foot odor. There may be preventive measures that can be implemented to ease the discomfort of plantar hyperhidrosis, including utilizing antiperspirants on the feet, wearing layers of cotton socks, which may be helpful in absorbing sweat, or taking oral medications. If you are afflicted with this uncomfortable foot condition, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who guides you to begin the correct treatment.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Michael T. Hames of Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

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Wednesday, 02 January 2019 00:00

How to Manage Elderly Feet

Research has shown that it may be common for elderly people to develop uncomfortable foot conditions as the aging process occurs. It’s important to take proper care of your feet at any age, and this is especially true of the elder population. There are several methods to keep the feet healthy, and these may include incorporating gentle foot exercises and walking for short periods of time into your daily activities. This may aid in keeping the muscles in the feet strong, which can help in maintaining the balance that is necessary to prevent falling. There are several daily routines that can be implemented to keep the feet healthy, and these may include observing your feet daily, which may help in noticing any cuts or bruises, washing your feet every day, in addition to wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly. If you would like additional information about the importance of taking care of elderly feet, please consult with a podiatrist for proper guidance.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and , contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

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