Foot & Ankle Diseases & Disorders Treatment in Kolhapur

What is Splay Foot?

Splay foot, also known as pes planus or flat feet, is a prevalent foot condition that impacts numerous individuals globally. It is identified by the flattening of the foot's arches, causing the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground and an enlarged appearance of the foot. In some cases, the toes may turn outward, resembling a duck's foot. Early identification and management of splay foot are crucial in preventing long-term complications, improving foot function, and enhancing the quality of life. The treatment options may vary from physical therapy, supportive footwear to surgery, depending on the condition's severity.

Causes

• Genetics
• Weak arch muscles
• Injury or overuse
• Aging
• Certain medical conditions such as arthritis or nerve problems.

Symptoms

• Pain.
• Swelling.
• Discomfort in the feet especially after standing or walking for extended periods of time.
• Difficulty fitting into shoes.
• Visible flattening of the arches.
• Inward rolling of the ankles.

Treatment

Treatment for splay foot will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Some common treatment options include

Arch support

Wearing shoes with good arch support can help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with splay foot. In some cases, custom orthotics may be necessary.

Physical therapy

Exercises that strengthen the arch muscles can help to improve the condition and reduce symptoms.

Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be recommended to help manage pain and inflammation.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity and restore the arches.

Prevention

There are steps that can be taken to prevent the development of splay foot, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Avoiding high-impact activities.
• Wearing appropriate footwear.
• Performing regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the feet.

What is Haglund Exostosis?

Exostosis, also referred to as osteoma, is characterized by the formation of a benign growth of new bone tissue on top of pre-existing bone, and can appear in various parts of the body. One type of exostosis is Haglund's deformity, which affects the foot bone and soft tissues. This condition is characterized by the enlargement of the bony section of the heel where the Achilles tendon is located, leading to an abnormality of the foot. The development of a large, bony lump on the back of the heel can cause irritation of the soft tissue and result in bursitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac between the tendon and the bone. Furthermore, the inflammation of the heel can cause a buildup of calcium in the bone, making the bump even more prominent and painful. It is often referred to as "pump bump" due to its association with the pressure and friction caused by rigid shoes.

Causes of Haglund Exostosis

• High arches
• A tight Achilles tendon
• Walking on the outside of your feet
• Tight or poor-fitting shoes

Symptoms of Haglund Exostosis

• Symptoms of Haglund exostosis
• Severe Pain
• Swelling
• Redness near the inflamed tissue
• Blisters and/or callouses on and around the bump due to increased friction from shoes

Treatment

To treat inflammation caused by a pump bump, it is crucial to decrease pressure and friction in the affected area. Wearing well-fitting shoes that provide sufficient support is the most effective way to achieve this. In addition, there are other non-surgical methods for managing Haglund's deformity, which include

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Motrin (ibuprofen)
• Immobilization, such as with a cast or soft boot to allow it to heal
• Custom foot orthotics that improves biomechanics
• Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon
• Heel pads to reduce irritation
• Backless or soft-backed shoes
• Ice to lower inflammation
• Physical therapy
• Modalities like ultrasound to lower inflammation

Surgery

The goal of the surgery is to reduce the prominence of the heel bone, which may be causing the pain. This can be achieved by removing the prominent bone through an incision made at the heel beside the Achilles tendon. However, if the Achilles tendon has degenerated, this may also need to be addressed during the surgery.

In such cases, the surgeon may make an incision in the midline of the heel and remove the degenerated part of the Achilles tendon along with the bone. Sometimes, a tendon may be transferred to replace the part of the Achilles tendon that cannot be repaired. The type of surgery performed depends on the extent of the damage and the overall condition of the patient.

The surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning that the patient can go home the same day as the surgery. The patient will receive general anesthesia or a nerve block to numb the leg during the surgery. Following the surgery, the patient will need to keep the leg elevated and apply ice to reduce swelling. Pain medication may also be prescribed to manage any discomfort.

What is Adult Acquired Flatfoot?

Adult acquired flatfoot is a very common condition that affects the feet and ankles of adult males and females. In people with adult acquired flatfoot, the arch of the foot falls or collapses. It can be a painful, sometimes debilitating condition. However, a painful flatfoot can usually be helped with braces or orthotics and other non-surgical treatments.

Adult acquired flatfoot is different than flatfoot in children. Children will usually outgrow flatfoot on their own, often without treatment. In adults, flat feet usually remain permanently flat. Treatment usually addresses the symptoms rather than a cure.

In adults the condition is called "acquired" flatfoot because it affects feet that at one point in time had a normal longitudinal arch. The deformity may worsen over time as one ages.

Causes of Adult Acquired Flatfoot

• Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
• Injury or tear to the ligaments of the foot
• Diabetic Collapse (Charcot Foot)
• Arthritis

Symptoms of Adult Acquired Flatfoot

• Pain along the back of the calf to inside the foot where the tendon runs
• Ankle pain
• Swelling around the ankle
• Pain while walking or standing
• Bony bumps on the top or inside of the foot
• Pain that is worse with activity
• Painful, bony bumps on the top and inside of the foot
• Swelling or a large bump on the bottom of the foot

Treatment

Rest and immobilization

Resting the foot and keeping it immobilized in a cast or boot may help alleviate pain and prevent further damage.

Physical Therapy

Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle can help improve stability and prevent further deterioration of the condition.

Orthotics

Custom-made shoe inserts can provide additional support and help distribute weight evenly across the foot.

Medications

Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce pain and inflammation.

Bracing

Wearing a brace or ankle support can help stabilize the foot and prevent further damage.

Surgery

If non-surgical treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered. The type of surgery will depend on the severity of the condition and may include

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a fibrous band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes on the bottom of the foot. This can cause stabbing heel pain that typically occurs when taking the first steps in the morning, but may return after standing or sitting for long periods. The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is not fully understood, but it often affects runners and overweight individuals. The plantar fascia acts like a ligament and forms the arch of the foot, connecting the bones together. Overuse or excessive stretching of the plantar fascia can lead to swelling and inflammation, making it difficult to walk or use the foot. While plantar fasciitis usually occurs in one foot at a time, it can affect both feet simultaneously.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be caused by various factors that irritate or damage the plantar fascia, such as

• Spending prolonged periods of time standing or walking, especially for occupational reasons
• Engaging in certain types of physical activity, particularly those that exert excessive pressure on the heel and its connected tissues
• Playing sports.
• Wearing shoes that don’t support your feet well enough
• Walking or standing barefoot for a long time

Certain medical conditions can lead to the onset of plantar fasciitis, such as

• High arch feet.
• Flat feet.
• Obesity

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

• Heel pain.
• Pain in the arch of your foot.
• Stiffness.
• Swelling around your heel.
• A tight Achilles tendon.

Treatment

Platelet rich plasma (PRP)

PRP is commonly utilized via injection as a means of promoting the healing and restoration of injuries.

Extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT)

EPAT, a type of shockwave therapy, involves the use of concentrated acoustic waves (sound waves) applied externally to the affected area, that is plantar fascia, to stimulate increased blood flow and promote faster healing of the tissue.

Percutaneous needle tenotomy

Percutaneous needle tenotomy is a procedure that involves inserting a needle through the skin and into the plantar fascia, which can increase blood flow to the affected area and enhance the plantar fascia's natural ability to heal and regenerate.

Other treatment options include

• Over-the-counter NSAIDs
• Rest
• Icing your foot
• Wearing supportive shoe
• Orthotics or shoe inserts
• Immobilization
• Massaging and stretching
• Corticosteroids

Surgery

In most cases, the treatments mentioned previously are sufficient to alleviate symptoms and effectively manage plantar fasciitis, with surgical intervention being a rare occurrence. If surgery is deemed necessary, the two most commonly performed procedures are

What is Achilles tendon rupture?

The Achilles tendon is a robust, fibrous cord connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone, responsible for providing the strength required for walking, running, and jumping. This thick band of tissue is very strong. In fact, the Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. While commonly occurring in individuals who engage in recreational sports, Achilles tendon rupture can happen to anyone. This injury typically results from the tendon being overextended, leading to a complete or partial tear. If the Achilles tendon ruptures, it is possible to hear a popping sound, followed by sudden and severe pain in the back of the ankle and lower leg. This can impact your ability to walk correctly. Surgery is often recommended to repair the rupture, but nonsurgical treatments can be effective as well.

Causes of Achilles Tendon Rupture

An abrupt surge in pressure on the Achilles tendon is a common cause of ruptures. This can happen in various ways, such as

• Sports participation, especially the sports that involve jumping
• Falling from a height
• Missing a step when going downstairs
• Stepping into a hole

Risk Factors

Age

The age group most susceptible to Achilles tendon rupture is typically between 30 and 40 years old.

Sex

Men are at a higher risk of experiencing Achilles tendon rupture, up to five times more than women.

Steroid injections

Steroid injections, which doctors administer to alleviate inflammation and pain in the ankle joint, may weaken nearby tendons, leading to Achilles tendon rupture.

Certain antibiotics

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or levofloxacin (Levaquin), can increase the risk of Achilles tendon rupture.

Obesity

Excessive weight or obesity can place more strain on the Achilles tendon, making it more prone to rupture.

Certain medical conditions can lead to the onset of plantar fasciitis, such as

• High arch feet.
• Flat feet.
• Obesity

Treatment

• Rest
• Icing
• Compressing by wrapping your ankle to compress the injured area and prevent more swelling
• Elevating your leg at or above the level of your heart to reduce swelling
• Brace or walking cast: Immobilization of the injured foot and ankle is a typical nonsurgical approach for treating a torn Achilles tendon. A healthcare professional will apply a brace or walking cast to the foot, ankle, and calf, positioning the foot and ankle downward to facilitate healing of the Achilles tendon

Surgery

In most cases, the treatments mentioned previously are sufficient to alleviate symptoms and effectively manage plantar fasciitis, with surgical intervention being a rare occurrence. If surgery is deemed necessary, the two most commonly performed procedures are