Blog

Cuboid Fractures

Tuesday, 27 July 2021

The cuboid is a cube-shaped bone located in the middle of each foot. It functions as a supporting structure that stabilizes the foot and aids in moving the toes. Although somewhat rare, the cuboid bone can be fractured due to injury. Often cuboid fractures co-occur with other problems, such as dislocations, ligament injuries, and other lower limb fractures. Symptoms of a broken cuboid bone include bruising, tenderness, swelling, foot pain, instability, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist. This foot and ankle specialist can diagnose your condition and find the best treatment for you.

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. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. 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 one of our offices located in Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

What Is Total Ankle Replacement?

Tuesday, 20 July 2021

Total ankle replacement is a surgical procedure in which a defective ankle joint is removed and replaced with plastic or metal pieces. This surgery is usually done to combat pain and disability from late-stage ankle arthritis. People with this condition often have such significant joint degeneration that they can barely move their ankle. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the diseased lower part of the shin bone (tibia) and upper part of the foot bone (talus), then replaces them with an artificial joint. Recovery can be a lengthy process. It often takes at least 4 months to return to full activity. Nevertheless, those who undergo the procedure often find that their increased mobility and reduced pain is worth it. To learn more about total ankle replacement please consult with a podiatrist today!

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Thursday, 15 July 2021

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Defining Heel Spurs

Tuesday, 13 July 2021

The medical condition known as a heel spur can cause severe pain and discomfort upon rising in the morning, followed by a dull ache in the heel for the duration of the day. But not everyone experiences these symptoms, sometimes people have no symptoms and only detect a heel spur as the result of an X-ray. So now you're wondering, what exactly is a heel spur? A heel spur is defined as a bony protrusion or growth that is made up of calcium and develops on the underside of a person's foot. Despite its definition, a heel spur is usually smooth but can appear pointy or hooked. They typically develop as a result of repetitive trauma to the heel bone and existing inflammation can be connected to the pain. Mild relief may be found when resting the affected foot and it is said that performing gentle stretches can help in the recovery process as well. Some patients also find it beneficial to wear custom made orthotics as they can be helpful in providing additional support. If you are experiencing pain of any kind in your heel, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. In some cases severe heel spurs may need surgery for permanent removal, so it's best to be under the care of a foot specialist who can diagnose and treat your condition properly.

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 Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor 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.

How Severe Is My Ankle Sprain?

Tuesday, 06 July 2021

Sprained ankles generally occur when a ligament in the ankle is overstretched or torn. This may happen from any sudden twisting or turning of the ankle. Sprains are typically categorized into one of three types based on how severe the injury is. A Grade 1 ankle sprain occurs when the ligament is strained but not torn. Symptoms include mild pain, slight swelling, joint instability, mild joint stiffness, and difficulty jogging or jumping. A Grade 2 ankle sprain occurs when the ligament is partially torn, and this is usually the most common type of ankle sprain. Symptoms include significant swelling, bruising, moderate pain, a reduced range of motion, and trouble walking. A Grade 3 ankle sprain occurs when a ligament is torn completely. Symptoms include severe swelling, pain, joint instability, loss of motion, and extreme difficulty walking. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist can determine the severity of an ankle sprain and provide the right treatments for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. 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.

Blog

Blog Archives