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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Thursday Colorado! We at Littleton foot and Ankle Clinic are gearing up for a rainy weekend and hope everyone stays safe!  Remember to wear the proper shoes if you go outdoors to keep those feet safe! Today we are discussing Talar Dome Lesion: 

What Is a Talar Dome Lesion?  

The ankle joint is composed of the bottom of the tibia (shin) bone and the top of the talus (ankle) bone. The top of the talus is dome-shaped and is completely covered with cartilage—a tough, rubbery tissue that enables the ankle to move smoothly. A talar dome lesion is an injury to the cartilage and underlying bone of the talus within the ankle joint. It is also called an osteochondral defect (OCD) or osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT). “Osteo” means bone and “chondral” refers to cartilage.

Talar dome lesions are usually caused by an injury, such as an ankle sprain. If the cartilage does not heal properly following the injury, it softens and begins to break off. Sometimes a broken piece of the damaged cartilage and bone will float in the ankle.

Signs & Symptoms

Unless the injury is extensive, it may take months, a year or even longer for symptoms to develop. The signs and symptoms of a talar dome lesion may include:

Chronic pain deep in the ankle—typically worse when bearing weight on the foot (especially during sports) and less when resting

An occasional clicking or catching feeling in the ankle when walking

A sensation of the ankle locking or giving out

Episodes of swelling of the ankle—occurring when bearing weight and subsiding when at rest

Diagnosis

A talar dome lesion can be difficult to diagnose because the precise site of the pain can be hard to pinpoint. To diagnose this injury, the foot and ankle surgeon will question the patient about recent or previous injury and will examine the foot and ankle, moving the ankle joint to help determine if there is pain, clicking or limited motion within that joint.

Sometimes the surgeon will inject the joint with an anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) to see if the pain goes away for a while, indicating that the pain is coming from inside the joint. X-rays are taken, and often an MRI or other advanced imaging tests are ordered to further evaluate the lesion and extent of the injury.

Nonsurgical Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on the severity of the talar dome lesion. If the lesion is stable (without loose pieces of cartilage or bone), one or more of the following nonsurgical treatment options may be considered:

Immobilization. Depending on the type of injury, the leg may be placed in a cast or cast boot to protect the talus. During this period of immobilization, nonweightbearing range-of-motion exercises may be recommended.

Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy. Range-of-motion and strengthening exercises are beneficial once the lesion is adequately healed. Physical therapy may also include techniques to reduce pain and swelling.

Ankle brace. Wearing an ankle brace may help protect the patient from reinjury if the ankle is unstable.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If nonsurgical treatment fails to relieve the symptoms of talar dome lesions, surgery may be necessary. Surgery may involve removal of the loose bone and cartilage fragments within the joint and establishing an environment for healing. A variety of surgical techniques is available to accomplish this. The surgeon will select the best procedure based on the specific case.

Complications of Talar Dome Lesions

Depending on the amount of damage to the cartilage in the ankle joint, arthritis may develop in the joint, resulting in chronic pain, swelling and limited joint motion. Treatment for these complications is best directed by a foot and ankle surgeon and may include one or more of the following:

Nonsteroidal or steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

Physical therapy

Bracing

Surgical intervention

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist  #DenverPodiatrist  #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

[littletonfootandankleclinic]

Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Monday Colorado! So far we’re looking at the last two warm days today and tomorrow and then it’s jumping right into fall! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend and are ready to jump into this week! Today we are discussing Tarsal Coalition: 

What Is a Tarsal Coalition?  

A tarsal coalition is an abnormal connection that develops between two bones in the back of the foot (the tarsal bones). This abnormal connection, which can be composed of bone, cartilage or fibrous tissue, may lead to limited motion and pain in one or both feet.

The tarsal bones include the calcaneus (heel bone), talus, navicular, cuboid and cuneiform bones. These bones work together to provide the motion necessary for normal foot function.

Causes

Most often, tarsal coalition occurs during fetal development, resulting in the individual bones not forming properly. Less common causes of tarsal coalition include infection, arthritis or a previous injury to the area.

Symptoms

While many people who have a tarsal coalition are born with this condition, the symptoms generally do not appear until the bones begin to mature, usually around ages 9 to 16. Sometimes no symptoms are present during childhood. However, pain and symptoms may develop later in life.

The symptoms of tarsal coalition may include one or more of the following:

Pain (mild to severe) when walking or standing

Tired or fatigued legs

Muscle spasms in the leg, causing the foot to turn outward when walking

Flatfoot (in one or both feet)

Walking with a limp

Stiffness of the foot and ankle

Diagnosis

A tarsal coalition is difficult to identify until a child’s bones begin to mature. It is sometimes not discovered until adulthood. Diagnosis includes obtaining information about the duration and development of the symptoms as well as a thorough examination of the foot and ankle. The findings of this examination will differ according to the severity and location of the coalition.

In addition to examining the foot, the surgeon will order x-rays. Advanced imaging studies may also be required to fully evaluate the condition.

Nonsurgical Treatment

The goal of nonsurgical treatment of tarsal coalition is to relieve the symptoms and to reduce the motion at the affected joint. One or more of the following options may be used, depending on the severity of the condition and the response to treatment:

Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy. Physical therapy may include massage, range-of-motion exercises and ultrasound therapy.

Steroid injections. An injection of cortisone into the affected joint reduces the inflammation and pain. Sometimes more than one injection is necessary.

Orthotic devices. Custom orthotic devices can be beneficial in distributing weight away from the joint, limiting motion at the joint and relieving pain.

Immobilization. Sometimes the foot is immobilized to give the affected area a rest. The foot is placed in a cast or cast boot, and crutches are used to avoid placing weight on the foot.

Injection of an anesthetic agent. Injection of an anesthetic into the leg may be used to relax spasms and is often performed prior to immobilization.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If the patient's symptoms are not adequately relieved with nonsurgical treatment, surgery is an option. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the best surgical approach based the patient's age, condition, arthritic changes and activity level.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist  #DenverPodiatrist  #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Good morning and happy Thursday Colorado! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend! It looks like we might be getting a couple of warmer temperatures this weekend so enjoy that sunshine! Today we are discussing  Skin Cancer of the Foot and Ankle:

Skin cancer is a general term for three distinct cancers that can appear on the foot: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.  

Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, appears on sun-exposed areas as a smooth, raised bump or a sore that is not healing. It rarely metastasizes or causes death because it grows slowly and rarely spreads. It is easily treated with surgery or radiation.

Squamous cell carcinoma appears on sun-exposed areas as thick, red, scaly patches or as a bleeding ulcer. It is more serious than basal cell carcinoma because in some instances, it may spread to other areas of the body.

Melanoma, the most serious skin cancer, begins in the cells of the skin that produce pigmentation (coloration) and spreads to other areas of the body as it grows beneath the surface of the skin. Read more about malignant melanoma of the foot here.

Treatment of skin cancer, which varies depending on its type and location and the age of the patient, may include chemotherapy, radiation and surgical excision.  Referral to an oncologist  may be necessary.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist  #DenverPodiatrist  #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Monday Colorado! It looks like it will be a coupe of hot, low 90, days coming up and then a gradual drop throughout the rest of the week. We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as we jump back into a new week! Today we are discussing  Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: 

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?  

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease in which certain cells of the immune system malfunction and attack healthy joints.

RA causes inflammation in the lining (synovium) of joints, most often the joints of the hands and feet. The signs of inflammation can include pain, swelling, redness and a feeling of warmth around affected joints. In some patients, chronic inflammation results in damage to the cartilage and bones in the joint. Serious damage can lead to permanent joint destruction, deformity and disability.

When joints become inflamed due to RA, the synovium thickens and produces an excess of joint fluid. This overabundance of fluid, along with inflammatory chemicals released by the immune system, causes swelling and damage to the joint’s cartilage and bones.

Symptoms Affecting the Foot & Ankle

Foot problems caused by RA commonly occur in the forefoot (the ball of the foot, near the toes), although RA can also affect other areas of the foot and ankle. The most common signs and symptoms of RA-related foot problems, in addition to the abnormal appearance of deformities, are pain, swelling, joint stiffness and difficulty walking.

Deformities and conditions associated with RA may include:

Rheumatoid nodules (lumps), which cause pain when they rub against shoes or, if they appear on the bottom of the foot, pain when walking

Dislocated toe joints

Hammertoes

Bunions

Heel pain

Achilles tendon pain

Flatfoot ankle pain

Diagnosis

RA is diagnosed on the basis of a clinical examination as well as blood tests.

To further evaluate the patient’s foot and ankle problems, the surgeon may order x-rays and/or other imaging tests.

Treatment by the Foot & Ankle Surgeon

While treatment of RA focuses on the medication prescribed by a patient's primary doctor or rheumatologist, the foot and ankle surgeon will develop a treatment plan aimed at relieving the pain of RA-related foot problems. The plan may include one or more of the following options:

Orthotic devices. The surgeon often fits the patient with custom orthotic devices to provide cushioning for rheumatoid nodules, minimize pain when walking and give needed support to improve the foot’s mechanics.

Accommodative shoes. These are used to relieve pressure and pain and to assist with walking.

Aspiration of fluid. When inflammation flares up in a joint, the surgeon may aspirate (draw out) fluid to reduce the swelling and pain.

Steroid injections. Injections of anti-inflammatory medication may be applied directly to an inflamed joint or to a rheumatoid nodule.

When Is Surgery Needed?

When RA produces pain and deformity in the foot that is not relieved through other treatments, surgery may be required. The foot and ankle surgeon will select the procedure best suited to the patient's condition and lifestyle.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist  #DenverPodiatrist  #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Monday Colorado! It’s a very sunny and beautiful start to this work week! The staff at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic hope everyone had a great weekend and Easter Sunday! We also hope everyone has a chance to get outside today and enjoy that warm weather before the storms tomorrow! Today we are discussing Talar Dome Lesion: 

What Is a Talar Dome Lesion?  

The ankle joint is composed of the bottom of the tibia (shin) bone and the top of the talus (ankle) bone. The top of the talus is dome-shaped and is completely covered with cartilage—a tough, rubbery tissue that enables the ankle to move smoothly. A talar dome lesion is an injury to the cartilage and underlying bone of the talus within the ankle joint. It is also called an osteochondral defect (OCD) or osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT). “Osteo” means bone and “chondral” refers to cartilage.

Talar dome lesions are usually caused by an injury, such as an ankle sprain. If the cartilage does not heal properly following the injury, it softens and begins to break off. Sometimes a broken piece of the damaged cartilage and bone will float in the ankle.

Signs & Symptoms

Unless the injury is extensive, it may take months, a year or even longer for symptoms to develop. The signs and symptoms of a talar dome lesion may include:

Chronic pain deep in the ankle—typically worse when bearing weight on the foot (especially during sports) and less when resting

An occasional clicking or catching feeling in the ankle when walking

A sensation of the ankle locking or giving out

Episodes of swelling of the ankle—occurring when bearing weight and subsiding when at rest

Diagnosis

A talar dome lesion can be difficult to diagnose because the precise site of the pain can be hard to pinpoint. To diagnose this injury, the foot and ankle surgeon will question the patient about recent or previous injury and will examine the foot and ankle, moving the ankle joint to help determine if there is pain, clicking or limited motion within that joint.

Sometimes the surgeon will inject the joint with an anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) to see if the pain goes away for a while, indicating that the pain is coming from inside the joint. X-rays are taken, and often an MRI or other advanced imaging tests are ordered to further evaluate the lesion and extent of the injury.

Nonsurgical Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on the severity of the talar dome lesion. If the lesion is stable (without loose pieces of cartilage or bone), one or more of the following nonsurgical treatment options may be considered:

Immobilization. Depending on the type of injury, the leg may be placed in a cast or cast boot to protect the talus. During this period of immobilization, nonweightbearing range-of-motion exercises may be recommended.

Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy. Range-of-motion and strengthening exercises are beneficial once the lesion is adequately healed. Physical therapy may also include techniques to reduce pain and swelling.

Ankle brace. Wearing an ankle brace may help protect the patient from reinjury if the ankle is unstable.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If nonsurgical treatment fails to relieve the symptoms of talar dome lesions, surgery may be necessary. Surgery may involve removal of the loose bone and cartilage fragments within the joint and establishing an environment for healing. A variety of surgical techniques is available to accomplish this. The surgeon will select the best procedure based on the specific case.

Complications of Talar Dome Lesions

Depending on the amount of damage to the cartilage in the ankle joint, arthritis may develop in the joint, resulting in chronic pain, swelling and limited joint motion. Treatment for these complications is best directed by a foot and ankle surgeon and may include one or more of the following:

Nonsteroidal or steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

Physical therapy

Bracing

Surgical intervention

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Pre-Friday Colorado! We are looking at a very sunny and warm weekend and week ahead and couldn’t be more thrilled! As you are outside remember to stay safe, wear proper shoes and inserts, for those outdoor activities and have a great time! Today we are discussing Tailor’s Bunion: 

What Is a Tailor’s Bunion?  

Tailor’s bunion, also called a bunionette, is a prominence of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. The metatarsals are the five long bones of the foot. The prominence that characterizes a tailor’s bunion occurs at the metatarsal head, located at the far end of the bone where it meets the toe. Tailor’s bunions are not as common as bunions, which occur on the inside of the foot, but they are similar in symptoms and causes.

Why is it called a tailor’s bunion? The deformity received its name centuries ago, when tailors sat cross-legged all day with the outside edge of their feet rubbing on the ground. This constant rubbing led to a painful bump at the base of the little toe.

Causes

Often a tailor’s bunion is caused by an inherited faulty mechanical structure of the foot. In these cases, changes occur in the foot’s bony framework, resulting in the development of an enlargement. The fifth metatarsal bone starts to protrude outward, while the little toe moves inward. This shift creates a bump on the outside of the foot that becomes irritated whenever a shoe presses against it.

Sometimes a tailor’s bunion is actually a bony spur (an outgrowth of bone) on the side of the fifth metatarsal head.

Regardless of the cause, the symptoms of a tailor’s bunion are usually aggravated by wearing shoes that are too narrow in the toe, producing constant rubbing and pressure.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tailor’s bunions include redness, swelling and pain at the site of the enlargement. These symptoms occur when wearing shoes that rub against the enlargement, irritating the soft tissues underneath the skin and producing inflammation.

Diagnosis

Tailor’s bunion is easily diagnosed because the protrusion is visually apparent. X-rays may be ordered to help the foot and ankle surgeon determine the cause and extent of the deformity.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Treatment for tailor’s bunion typically begins with nonsurgical therapies. Your foot and ankle surgeon may select one or more of the following:

Shoe modifications. Choose shoes that have a wide toe box, and avoid those with pointed toes or high heels.

Padding. Bunionette pads placed over the area may help reduce pain.

Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may help relieve the pain and inflammation.

Icing. An ice pack may be applied to reduce pain and inflammation. Wrap the pack in a thin towel rather than placing ice directly on your skin.

Injection therapy. Injections of corticosteroid may be used to treat the inflamed tissue around the joint.

Orthotic devices. In some cases, custom orthotic devices may be provided by the foot and ankle surgeon.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery is often considered when pain continues despite the above approaches. In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures for your case, the foot and ankle surgeon will take into consideration the extent of your deformity based on the x-ray findings, your age, your activity level and other factors. The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning Colorado and happy Thursday! It looks like we’re going to have a decently warm Saturday so us staff at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic will definitely be getting out to soak up the sun! Then it appears we might be looking at a few more days of snow so make sure to stay safe, wear proper snow attire, and drive safely if you go out! Today we are discussing  Sesamoid Injuries in the Foot:

What Is a Sesamoid?  

A sesamoid is a bone embedded in a tendon. Sesamoids are found in several joints in the body. In the normal foot, the sesamoids are two pea-shaped bones located in the ball of the foot, beneath the big toe joint.

Acting as a pulley for tendons, the sesamoids help the big toe move normally and provide leverage when the big toe pushes off during walking and running. The sesamoids also serve as a weightbearing surface for the first metatarsal bone (the long bone connected to the big toe), absorbing the weight placed on the ball of the foot when walking, running and jumping.

Sesamoid injuries can involve the bones, tendons and/or surrounding tissue in the joint. They are often associated with activities requiring increased pressure on the ball of the foot, such as running, basketball, football, golf, tennis and ballet. In addition, people with high arches are at risk for developing sesamoid problems. Frequent wearing of high-heeled shoes can also be a contributing factor.

Types of Sesamoid Injuries in the Foot

There are three types of sesamoid injuries in the foot:

Turf toe. This is an injury of the soft tissue surrounding the big toe joint. It usually occurs when the big toe joint is extended beyond its normal range. Turf toe causes immediate, sharp pain and swelling. It usually affects the entire big toe joint and limits the motion of the toe. Turf toe may result in an injury to the soft tissue attached to the sesamoid or a fracture of the sesamoid. Sometimes a “pop” is felt at the moment of injury.

Fracture. A fracture (break) in a sesamoid bone can be either acute or chronic.

Sesamoiditis. This is an overuse injury involving chronic inflammation of the sesamoid bones and the tendons involved with those bones. Sesamoiditis is caused by increased pressure on the sesamoids. Often, sesamoiditis is associated with a dull, longstanding pain beneath the big toe joint. The pain comes and goes, usually occurring with certain shoes or certain activities.

An acute fracture is caused by trauma—a direct blow or impact to the bone. An acute sesamoid fracture produces immediate pain and swelling at the site of the break but usually does not affect the entire big toe joint. A chronic fracture is a stress fracture (a hairline break usually caused by repetitive stress or overuse).

A chronic sesamoid fracture produces longstanding pain in the ball of the foot beneath the big toe joint. The pain, which tends to come and go, generally is aggravated with activity and relieved with rest.

Diagnosis

In diagnosing a sesamoid injury, the foot and ankle surgeon will examine the foot, focusing on the big toe joint. The surgeon will press on the big toe, move it up and down, and may assess the patient’s walking and evaluate the wear pattern on the patient’s shoes. X-rays are ordered, and in some cases, advanced imaging studies may be ordered.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Nonsurgical treatment for sesamoid injuries of the foot may include one or more of the following options, depending on the type of injury and degree of severity:

Padding, strapping or taping. A pad may be placed in the shoe to cushion the inflamed sesamoid area, or the toe may be taped or strapped to relieve that area of tension.

Immobilization. The foot may be placed in a cast or removable walking cast. Crutches may be used to prevent placing weight on the foot.

Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are often helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy. The rehabilitation period following immobilization sometimes includes physical therapy, such as exercises (range of motion, strengthening and conditioning) and ultrasound therapy.

Steroid injections. In some cases, cortisone is injected into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation.

Orthotic devices. Custom orthotic devices that fit into the shoe may be prescribed for long-term treatment of sesamoiditis to balance the pressure placed on the ball of the foot.

When Is Surgery Needed?

When sesamoid injuries fail to respond to nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be required. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the type of procedure that is best suited to the individual patient.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Tuesday Colorado! We’re nearing the end of May and it looks like also nearing the end of the rain for a bit as we dive into much warmer days this week! At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we were made aware recently, of the new CDC mask guidelines. We want our patient’s to know that theirs and our staff’s safety is our top priority, so we will continue to require masks at our clinic at this time. A sign will be posted on our door showing this policy and at the time that this changes, we will let everyone know and remove that sign as well. Until then, we hope everyone stays safe and enjoys the summer months coming up! 

Our topic today is Accessory Navicular Syndrome!: 

What Is the Accessory Navicular?  

The accessory navicular (os navicularum or os tibiale externum) is an extra bone or piece of cartilage located on the inner side of the foot just above the arch. It is incorporated within the posterior tibial tendon, which attaches in this area.  

An accessory navicular is congenital (present at birth). It is not part of normal bone structure and therefore is not present in most people.  

What Is Accessory Navicular Syndrome?

People who have an accessory navicular often are unaware of the condition if it causes no problems. However, some people with this extra bone develop a painful condition known as accessory navicular syndrome when the bone and/or posterior tibial tendon are aggravated. This can result from any of the following:

Trauma, as in a foot or ankle sprain

Chronic irritation from shoes or other footwear rubbing against the extra bone

Excessive activity or overuse

Many people with accessory navicular syndrome also have flat feet (fallen arches). Having a flat foot puts more strain on the posterior tibial tendon, which can produce inflammation or irritation of the accessory navicular.

Signs & Symptoms of Accessory Navicular Syndrome

Adolescence is a common time for the symptoms to first appear. This is a time when bones are maturing and cartilage is developing into bone. Sometimes, however, the symptoms do not occur until adulthood. The signs and symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome include:

A visible bony prominence on the midfoot (the inner side of the foot, just above the arch)

Redness and swelling of the bony prominence

Vague pain or throbbing in the midfoot and arch, usually occurring during or after periods of activity

Diagnosis

To diagnose accessory navicular syndrome, the foot and ankle surgeon will ask about symptoms and examine the foot, looking for skin irritation or swelling. The doctor may press on the bony prominence to assess the area for discomfort. Foot structure, muscle strength, joint motion and the way the patient walks may also be evaluated.  

X-rays are usually ordered to confirm the diagnosis. If there is ongoing pain or inflammation, an MRI or other advanced imaging tests may be used to further evaluate the condition.

Nonsurgical Treatment Approaches

The goal of nonsurgical treatment for accessory navicular syndrome is to relieve the symptoms. The following may be used:

Immobilization. Placing the foot in a cast or removable walking boot allows the affected area to rest and decreases the inflammation.

Ice. To reduce swelling, a bag of ice covered with a thin towel is applied to the affected area. Do not put ice directly on the skin.

Medications. Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be prescribed. In some cases, oral or injected steroid medications may be used in combination with immobilization to reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy. Physical therapy may be prescribed, including exercises and treatments to strengthen the muscles and decrease inflammation. The exercises may also help prevent recurrence of the symptoms.

Orthotic devices. Custom orthotic devices that fit into the shoe provide support for the arch and may play a role in preventing future symptoms.

Even after successful treatment, the symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome sometimes reappear.  When this happens, nonsurgical approaches are usually repeated.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If nonsurgical treatment fails to relieve the symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome, surgery may be appropriate. Surgery may involve removing the accessory bone, reshaping the area and repairing the posterior tibial tendon to improve its function. This extra bone is not needed for normal foot function.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Wednesday Colorado, we’ve made it to the middle of the week! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic are enjoying these couple of sunny days before some more rain and hope everyone is staying safe and having a good week so far! Today we are discussing Puncture Wounds: 

What Is a Puncture Wound?

Puncture wounds are not the same as cuts. A puncture wound has a small entry hole caused by a pointed object, such as a nail that you have stepped on. In contrast, a cut is an open wound that produces a long tear in the skin. Puncture wounds require different treatment from cuts because these small holes in the skin can disguise serious injury.

Puncture wounds are common in the foot, especially in warm weather when people go barefoot. But even though they occur frequently, puncture wounds of the foot are often inadequately treated. If not properly treated, infection or other complications can develop.

Proper treatment within the first 24 hours is especially important with puncture wounds because they carry the danger of embedding the piercing object (foreign body) under the skin. Research shows that complications can be prevented if the patient seeks professional treatment right away.

Foreign Bodies in Puncture Wounds

A variety of foreign bodies can become embedded in a puncture wound. Nails, glass, toothpicks, sewing needles, insulin needles and seashells are some common ones. In addition, pieces of your own skin, sock and shoe can be forced into the wound during a puncture, along with dirt and debris from the object. All puncture wounds are dirty wounds because they involve penetration of an object that is not sterile. Anything that remains in the wound increases your chance of developing other problems, either in the near future or later.

Severity of Wounds

There are different ways of determining the severity of a puncture wound. Depth of the wound is one way to evaluate it. The deeper the puncture, the more likely it is that complications, such as infection, will develop. Many patients cannot judge how far their puncture extends into the foot. Therefore, if you have stepped on something and the skin was penetrated, seek treatment as soon as possible.

The type and cleanliness of the penetrating object also determine the severity of the wound. Larger or longer objects can penetrate deeper into the tissues, possibly causing more damage. The dirtier an object, such as a rusty nail, the more dirt and debris are dragged into the wound, increasing the chance of infection.

Another thing that can determine wound severity is if you were wearing socks and shoes, particles of which can get trapped in the wound.

Treatment

A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process to avoid complications.

Even if you have gone to an emergency room for immediate treatment of your puncture wound, see a foot and ankle surgeon for a thorough cleaning and careful follow-up. The sooner you do this, the better—within 24 hours after injury, if possible.

The surgeon will make sure the wound is properly cleaned and no foreign body remains. He or she may numb the area, thoroughly clean inside and outside the wound, and monitor your progress. In some cases, x-rays may be ordered to determine whether something remains in the wound or if bone damage has occurred. Antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary.

Avoiding Complications

Follow the foot and ankle surgeon’s instructions for care of the wound to prevent complications (see “Puncture Wounds: What You Should Do” further down on this page).

Infection is a common complication of puncture wounds that can lead to serious consequences.

Sometimes a minor skin infection evolves into a bone or joint infection, so you should look for these signs:

Other complications that may arise from inadequate treatment of puncture wounds include painful scarring in the area of the wound or a hard cyst where the foreign body has remained in the wound.

Although the complications of puncture wounds can be quite serious, early and proper treatment can play a crucial role in preventing them.

A minor skin infection may develop two to five days after injury.

The signs of a minor infection that show up around the wound include soreness, redness and possibly drainage, swelling and warmth. You may also develop a fever.

If these signs have not improved, or if they reappear in 10 to 14 days, a serious infection in the joint or bone may have developed.

Puncture Wounds: What You Should Do

Seek treatment right away.

Get a tetanus shot if needed (usually every 10 years).

See a foot and ankle surgeon within 24 hours.

Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Keep your dressing dry.

Keep weight off of the injured foot.

Finish all your antibiotics (if prescribed).

Take your temperature regularly. Watch for signs of infection (pain, redness, swelling, fever). Call your doctor if these signs appear.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy middle of the week Colorado! It looks like the snow is melting around us as we jump into warmer temperatures coming up! Today we are discussing Turf Toe:

Turf Toe

What Is Turf Toe?  

Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe joint resulting from injury during sports activities. The injury usually results from excessive upward bending of the big toe joint. The condition can be caused from either jamming the toe or from repetitive injury when pushing off repeatedly when running or jumping. Although this injury is most commonly reported in football players, participants in soccer, basketball, wrestling, gymnastics and dance also are at risk.

Causes

The name “turf toe” comes from the fact that this injury is especially common among athletes who play on artificial turf. When playing sports on artificial turf, the foot can stick to the hard surface, resulting in jamming of the big toe joint. There has been some indication that less-supportive flexible shoes worn on artificial turf are also to blame.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of turf toe can include pain, swelling and limited joint movement.

If turf toe is caused by repetitive actions that cause injury, the signs and symptoms will usually begin slowly and can gradually worsen. Turf toe can also be caused by a direct injury leading to damage of the bone beneath the cartilage. If direct injury is the cause, the signs and symptoms may begin suddenly and get worse over a 24-hour period.

Diagnosis

To arrive at a diagnosis, the foot and ankle surgeon will obtain your medical history and examine your foot. X-rays are typically ordered to rule out any broken bone. Other advanced imaging studies may also be helpful for proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Initial treatments include rest, ice, compression, and elevation. (RICE), as well as a change to less-flexible footwear. Operative treatment is reserved for individuals with severe cases and prolonged pain.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Hello and happy Pre-Friday Colorado, it’s a bit chillier today as we head closer into the snow storm! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic hope everyone is prepared for the weekend and stay as safe as possible! Today we are discussing  Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?  

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease in which certain cells of the immune system malfunction and attack healthy joints.

RA causes inflammation in the lining (synovium) of joints, most often the joints of the hands and feet. The signs of inflammation can include pain, swelling, redness and a feeling of warmth around affected joints. In some patients, chronic inflammation results in damage to the cartilage and bones in the joint. Serious damage can lead to permanent joint destruction, deformity and disability.

When joints become inflamed due to RA, the synovium thickens and produces an excess of joint fluid. This overabundance of fluid, along with inflammatory chemicals released by the immune system, causes swelling and damage to the joint’s cartilage and bones.

Symptoms Affecting the Foot & Ankle

Foot problems caused by RA commonly occur in the forefoot (the ball of the foot, near the toes), although RA can also affect other areas of the foot and ankle. The most common signs and symptoms of RA-related foot problems, in addition to the abnormal appearance of deformities, are pain, swelling, joint stiffness and difficulty walking.

Deformities and conditions associated with RA may include:

Rheumatoid nodules (lumps), which cause pain when they rub against shoes or, if they appear on the bottom of the foot, pain when walking

Dislocated toe joints

Hammertoes

Bunions

Heel pain

Achilles tendon pain

Flatfoot ankle pain

Diagnosis

RA is diagnosed on the basis of a clinical examination as well as blood tests.

To further evaluate the patient’s foot and ankle problems, the surgeon may order x-rays and/or other imaging tests.

Treatment by the Foot & Ankle Surgeon

While treatment of RA focuses on the medication prescribed by a patient's primary doctor or rheumatologist, the foot and ankle surgeon will develop a treatment plan aimed at relieving the pain of RA-related foot problems. The plan may include one or more of the following options:

Orthotic devices. The surgeon often fits the patient with custom orthotic devices to provide cushioning for rheumatoid nodules, minimize pain when walking and give needed support to improve the foot’s mechanics.

Accommodative shoes. These are used to relieve pressure and pain and to assist with walking.

Aspiration of fluid. When inflammation flares up in a joint, the surgeon may aspirate (draw out) fluid to reduce the swelling and pain.

Steroid injections. Injections of anti-inflammatory medication may be applied directly to an inflamed joint or to a rheumatoid nodule.

When Is Surgery Needed?

When RA produces pain and deformity in the foot that is not relieved through other treatments, surgery may be required. The foot and ankle surgeon will select the procedure best suited to the patient's condition and lifestyle.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good afternoon and happy Tuesday Colorado! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic are enjoying the last day of warmer weather today as we head into a more snowier week! Today we are discussing a few different topics; Foot Rash,  Raynaud’s phenomenon, and restless legs.

Foot Rash

A rash on the foot can have a variety of causes. It may be a form of eczema, which is usually very itchy. It also may be an allergic reaction to something with which your feet have come into contact, such as materials in your shoe or poison ivy. Another common reason for a foot rash is athlete’s foot, which is caused by a fungal infection. Only by having the rash examined will you be able to get a precise diagnosis. A foot and ankle surgeon will determine the cause of your rash and provide appropriate treatment.

Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition that results in a bluish-white discoloration of fingers and toes, often as a result of exposure to cold. Stress, smoking and certain medications may trigger or worsen symptoms. The color change, which occurs from spasms in small blood vessels, becomes red and then returns to normal when blood flow resumes.

The condition most often affects women, with symptoms varying depending on the severity of the condition.  Because there are no specific blood tests to diagnose this condition, the diagnosis is based on symptoms.

However, your doctor may order blood tests to determine whether the Raynaud’s phenomenon is associated with certain autoimmune diseases or other medical conditions.

Treatment for Raynaud’s phenomenon is aimed at prevention and protection of the toes and fingers.

Restless Legs

An uncontrolled urge to move one’s legs is referred to as restless legs. This can happen while trying to sleep, while traveling or any time the legs are at rest. There is no known test to diagnose the problem; instead, the foot and ankle surgeon considers the individual’s history to determine possible causes of the symptoms.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Hello Colorado and happy Wednesday! We’re looking at some mixed rain and snow ahead of us for tomorrow, so we hope everyone stays safe out there! Today we are discussing puncture wounds: 

What Is a Puncture Wound?

Puncture wounds are not the same as cuts. A puncture wound has a small entry hole caused by a pointed object, such as a nail that you have stepped on. In contrast, a cut is an open wound that produces a long tear in the skin. Puncture wounds require different treatment from cuts because these small holes in the skin can disguise serious injury.

Puncture wounds are common in the foot, especially in warm weather when people go barefoot. But even though they occur frequently, puncture wounds of the foot are often inadequately treated. If not properly treated, infection or other complications can develop.

Proper treatment within the first 24 hours is especially important with puncture wounds because they carry the danger of embedding the piercing object (foreign body) under the skin. Research shows that complications can be prevented if the patient seeks professional treatment right away.

Foreign Bodies in Puncture Wounds

A variety of foreign bodies can become embedded in a puncture wound. Nails, glass, toothpicks, sewing needles, insulin needles and seashells are some common ones. In addition, pieces of your own skin, sock and shoe can be forced into the wound during a puncture, along with dirt and debris from the object. All puncture wounds are dirty wounds because they involve penetration of an object that is not sterile. Anything that remains in the wound increases your chance of developing other problems, either in the near future or later.

Severity of Wounds

There are different ways of determining the severity of a puncture wound. Depth of the wound is one way to evaluate it. The deeper the puncture, the more likely it is that complications, such as infection, will develop. Many patients cannot judge how far their puncture extends into the foot. Therefore, if you have stepped on something and the skin was penetrated, seek treatment as soon as possible.

The type and cleanliness of the penetrating object also determine the severity of the wound. Larger or longer objects can penetrate deeper into the tissues, possibly causing more damage. The dirtier an object, such as a rusty nail, the more dirt and debris are dragged into the wound, increasing the chance of infection.

Another thing that can determine wound severity is if you were wearing socks and shoes, particles of which can get trapped in the wound.

Treatment

A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process to avoid complications.

Even if you have gone to an emergency room for immediate treatment of your puncture wound, see a foot and ankle surgeon for a thorough cleaning and careful follow-up. The sooner you do this, the better—within 24 hours after injury, if possible.

The surgeon will make sure the wound is properly cleaned and no foreign body remains. He or she may numb the area, thoroughly clean inside and outside the wound, and monitor your progress. In some cases, x-rays may be ordered to determine whether something remains in the wound or if bone damage has occurred. Antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary.

Avoiding Complications

Follow the foot and ankle surgeon’s instructions for care of the wound to prevent complications (see “Puncture Wounds: What You Should Do” further down on this page).

Infection is a common complication of puncture wounds that can lead to serious consequences.

Sometimes a minor skin infection evolves into a bone or joint infection, so you should look for these signs:

Other complications that may arise from inadequate treatment of puncture wounds include painful scarring in the area of the wound or a hard cyst where the foreign body has remained in the wound.

Although the complications of puncture wounds can be quite serious, early and proper treatment can play a crucial role in preventing them.

A minor skin infection may develop two to five days after injury.

The signs of a minor infection that show up around the wound include soreness, redness and possibly drainage, swelling and warmth. You may also develop a fever.

If these signs have not improved, or if they reappear in 10 to 14 days, a serious infection in the joint or bone may have developed.

Puncture Wounds: What You Should Do

Seek treatment right away.

Get a tetanus shot if needed (usually every 10 years).

See a foot and ankle surgeon within 24 hours.

Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Keep your dressing dry.

Keep weight off of the injured foot.

Finish all your antibiotics (if prescribed).

Take your temperature regularly. Watch for signs of infection (pain, redness, swelling, fever). Call your doctor if these signs appear.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Hello to the first day of the week Colorado! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend and are ready to jump back into the week! Today we are discussing “pump bump” aka  Haglund’s Deformity.

What Is Haglund’s Deformity?  

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel. The soft tissue near the Achilles tendon becomes irritated when the bony enlargement rubs against shoes. This often leads to painful bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac between the tendon and bone).

Causes

Haglund’s deformity is often called “pump bump” because the rigid backs of pump-style shoes can create pressure that aggravates the enlargement when walking. In fact, any shoes with a rigid back, such as ice skates, men’s dress shoes or women’s pumps, can cause this irritation.

To some extent, heredity plays a role in Haglund’s deformity. Inherited foot structures that can make one prone to developing this condition include:

A high-arched foot

A tight Achilles tendon

A tendency to walk on the outside of the heel.

Symptoms

Haglund’s deformity can occur in one or both feet. The symptoms include:

A noticeable bump on the back of the heel

Pain in the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel

Swelling in the back of the heel

Redness near the inflamed tissue

Diagnosis

After evaluating the patient’s symptoms, the foot and ankle surgeon will examine the foot. In addition, x-rays will be ordered to help the surgeon evaluate the structure of the heel bone.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Nonsurgical treatment of Haglund’s deformity is aimed at reducing the inflammation of the bursa. While these approaches can resolve the pain and inflammation, they will not shrink the bony protrusion. Nonsurgical treatment can include one or more of the following:

Medication. Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be recommended to reduce the pain and inflammation. Ice. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the inflamed area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.

Exercises. Stretching exercises help relieve tension from the Achilles tendon. These exercises are especially important for the patient who has a tight heel cord.

Heel lifts. Patients with high arches may find that heel lifts placed inside the shoe decrease the pressure on the heel.

Heel pads. Pads placed inside the shoe cushion the heel and may help reduce irritation when walking.

Shoe modification. Backless or soft backed shoes help avoid or minimize irritation.

Physical therapy. Physical therapy modalities, such as ultrasound, can help to reduce inflammation.

Orthotic devices. Custom arch supports control the motion in the foot.

Immobilization. In some cases, casting may be necessary.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If nonsurgical treatment fails to provide adequate pain relief, surgery may be needed. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the procedure that is best suited to your case. It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions for postsurgical care.

Prevention

To help prevent a recurrence of Haglund’s deformity:

wear appropriate shoes; avoid shoes with a rigid heel back

use arch supports or orthotic devices

perform stretching exercises to prevent the Achilles tendon from tightening

avoid running on hard surfaces and running uphill

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.com At Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning Colorado and Happy Monday!  Mondays are the start of the workweek which offers new beginnings 52 times a year! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic are going to enjoy these couple warm days we have before we get hit with some more snow. We hope everyone stays safe and warm this week! Today we are discussing Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal:

What Is a Fifth Metatarsal Fracture?  

Fractures (breaks) are common in the fifth metatarsal—the long bone on the outside of the foot that connects to the little toe. Two types of fractures that often occur in the fifth metatarsal are:

Avulsion fracture. In an avulsion fracture, a small piece of bone is pulled off the main portion of the bone by a tendon or ligament. This type of fracture is the result of an injury in which the ankle rolls. Avulsion fractures are often overlooked when they occur with an ankle sprain.

Jones fracture. Jones fractures occur in a small area of the fifth metatarsal that receives less blood and is therefore more prone to difficulties in healing. A Jones fracture can be either a stress fracture (a tiny hairline break that occurs over time) or an acute (sudden) break. Jones fractures are caused by overuse, repetitive stress or trauma. They are less common and more difficult to treat than avulsion fractures. Other types of fractures can occur in the fifth metatarsal. Examples include midshaft fractures, which usually result from trauma or twisting, and fractures of the metatarsal head and neck.

Symptoms

Avulsion and Jones fractures have the same signs and symptoms. These include:

Pain, swelling and tenderness on the outside of the foot

Difficulty walking

Bruising

Diagnosis

Anyone who has symptoms of a fifth metatarsal fracture should see a foot and ankle surgeon as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment. To arrive at a diagnosis, the surgeon will ask how the injury occurred or when the pain started. The foot will be examined, with the doctor gently pressing on different areas of the foot to determine where there is pain. The surgeon will also order x-rays. Because a Jones fracture sometimes does not show up on initial x-rays, additional imaging studies may be needed.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Until you are able to see a foot and ankle surgeon, the RICE method of care should be performed:

Rest: Stay off the injured foot. Walking may cause further injury.

Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.

Compression: An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.

Elevation: The foot should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.

The foot and ankle surgeon may use one of these nonsurgical options for treatment of a fifth metatarsal fracture:

Immobilization. Depending on the severity of the injury, the foot is kept immobile with a cast, cast boot or stiff-soled shoe. Crutches may also be needed to avoid placing weight on the injured foot.

Bone stimulation. A pain-free external device is used to speed the healing of some fractures. Bone stimulation, most commonly used for Jones fractures, may be used as part of the treatment or following an inadequate response to immobilization.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If the injury involves a displaced bone, multiple breaks or has failed to adequately heal, surgery may be required. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the type of procedure that is best suited to the individual patient.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.comAt Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor

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Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic

Good morning and happy Friday Colorado! We at Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic are ready for the weekend to get a little extra sleep! We hope everyone continues to stay safe and warm this weekend! Today we are discussing a few topics:  Drop Foot,  Fallen Arches,  Field Hockey Injuries to the Foot and Ankle.

Drop Foot

Drop foot refers to the inability to lift the front part of one’s foot off the ground when walking, resulting in a scuffing or dragging of the foot or lifting the thigh (known as “steppage” gait). It is most often caused by nerve or muscle disorders or damage or by a central nervous system disorder.

Drop foot is usually diagnosed by physical examination, although additional testing may be recommended. Treatment may include use of braces, physical therapy and electrical nerve stimulation. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Fallen Arches

Fallen arches is a term commonly used to describe a flatfoot condition that develops during adulthood. This should not be confused with other causes of flatfoot that may develop during childhood or adolescence.

Most cases of fallen arches develop when the main arch-supporting tendon (the posterior tibial tendon) becomes weakened or injured, causing the arch to gradually become lower. With time, the shape of the foot changes and secondary symptoms start to appear.

Common problems associated with fallen arches include plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, increased fatigue and arthritis of the foot and ankle.

Field Hockey Injuries to the Foot and Ankle

The running and side-to-side cutting in field hockey are common causes of injuries to the foot and ankle. Field hockey players should be aware of the following risks:

Inversion ankle sprains can damage the ankle ligaments and can also be associated with peroneal tendon injuries and fractures.

Ankle fractures, metatarsal fractures and Lisfranc fractures can sideline athletes and sometimes require surgery.  

Overuse and excessive training can lead to heel pain (plantar fasciitis), Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, stress fractures, posterior tibial tendonitis (or PTTD), calcaneal apophysitis and metatarsalgia/capsulitis in children and adolescents.

As always, if you are experiencing any symptoms or anything of concern, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call! We would be more than happy to help! If you are from outside of Colorado, please give your PCP or local Podiatrist a call. If you have questions, we’re happy to help. Also, if you need us to check out you for an ankle fracture, bunions, custom orthotics, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, or any foot and ankle pain give us a call at (303) 933-5048 or visit our website at https://www.littletonfootandankleclinic.comAt Littleton Foot and Ankle Clinic, we treat your feet.

#LittletonFootandAnkleClinic #Podiatrist #FootDoctor #Littleton #Denver #LittletonPodiatrist #PodiatristLittleton #DenverPodiatrist #PodiatristDenver #LittletonFootDoctor #DenverFootDoctor