Items filtered by date: July 2024

Ankle replacement surgery, or ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical option for those with severe ankle joint damage, often resulting from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant fractures. This procedure involves replacing the damaged bones in the ankle joint with prosthetics, to restore function and reduce pain. Ankle replacement surgery includes making an incision to access the joint, repositioning blood vessels, nerves, and tendons, and then removing and reshaping the damaged bones to fit the artificial joint. Full recovery may take as long as six months. It begins by keeping the leg elevated and possibly remaining in the hospital for up to a week, as the healing process begins. Though the prognosis is generally positive, with many ankle replacements lasting over a decade, potential risks can include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and prosthetic failure. If you have severe ankle problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if ankle replacement is an option for you.

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 one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors 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.

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

Ankle injuries are prevalent in soccer, with acute ankle sprains being the most common. These occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn, usually from sudden twists, turns, or impacts. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Immediate relief tactics involve rest, compression, and elevation. Resting prevents further injury, and elevation can help to reduce swelling, in addition to compression with an elastic bandage. Rehabilitation exercises, such as gentle range-of-motion and strengthening activities can aid in recovery and prevent future injuries. Wearing proper footwear and using ankle supports during play can also help reduce the risk. If you have suffered an ankle injury while playing soccer, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and guide you on additional injury prevention strategies.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in the Greater Kansas City area . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Finding the right shoe size is important for maintaining foot health and overall comfort. Wearing shoes that are too tight or loose can lead to a variety of foot problems, including blisters, calluses, bunions, and even long-term issues like hammertoes and plantar fasciitis. Properly fitting shoes provide the necessary support and cushioning to prevent these conditions and promote healthy foot mechanics. To find the right shoe size, measure your feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest. Ensure there is about a half-inch space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Consider the shoe's width, as shoes that are too narrow or wide can cause discomfort and foot deformities. It is also important to try on both shoes, as feet are rarely identical in size. A podiatrist can provide expert advice on the best shoe type for your foot shape and specific needs, helping you avoid common pitfalls, in addition to finding shoes that offer both comfort and support. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of medical professional for personalized advice and to address any existing foot issues.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

Blood clots in the feet, also known as venous blood clots, pose significant health risks and require immediate medical attention. These clots can be caused by several factors, including poor blood circulation due to prolonged sitting or lying down, diabetes, and dehydration. Damaged veins from injury, infection, or surgery are other contributing factors. In addition, blood clots in the feet can result from taking certain medications like birth control pills, hormone therapy drugs, glucocorticoids, and antidepressants. Symptoms such as swelling, discoloration, varicose veins, and intense pain or numbness in the foot are indicators of potential blood clots. If left untreated, blood clots can travel to vital organs, potentially causing life-threatening conditions like pulmonary embolism, heart attack, or stroke. A podiatrist can play a critical role in managing blood clots in the feet by diagnosing the condition, providing appropriate treatments like blood thinners or thrombolytic therapy, and offering preventive measures. If you have developed blood clots in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick connective tissue running along the sole of the foot. This tissue supports the arch and absorbs shock during walking and running, but excessive strain can lead to tiny tears and inflammation. High-risk groups for plantar fasciitis include runners, dancers, and those who stand for prolonged periods, such as sales assistants. Other contributing factors can include foot deformities like flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles, or Achilles tendons. Wearing inappropriate footwear and obesity are other factors. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis often include severe burning or stabbing pain, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. Although the pain may subside with movement, it can return after strenuous activity. With advancing age, the risk increases as the tissue loses elasticity and the fat pads under the heel thin out. If you are experiencing pain in the bottom of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in the Greater Kansas City area . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.