A Conditions
Achilles Tendonitis-Indianapolis, IN
Achillies Tendonitis occurs when the Calcaneal tendon (Achilles tendon) becomes inflamed. The Calcaneal tendon joins the calf muscle to the heel bone. By lifting the heel, the Calcaneal tendon aids in walking and running. Athletes are prone to this injury because excessive recurring activities -- like running -- can overuse the tendon. Other individuals who don’t participate in such activities may acquire damage by prolonged stress on the feet, like standing for hours on end. People who have pronation of the foot -- flattening of the arch -- also have an increased risk of developing Achilles Tendonitis. The first symptom of inflammation includes mild discomfort around the tendon. As the condition progresses, other symptoms include:
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Aching
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Tenderness when the sides are squeezed
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Soreness
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Intense Pain
Several treatments are available to alleviate pain and heal the tendon. To reduce inflammation and pain, applying ice packs and taking an NSAID, like ibuprofen, are good ways to begin treatment. Proper rest with the combination of physical therapy can rehabilitate the injured tendon. Physical therapies such as strengthening exercises, massage, and ultrasound therapy, which normally lasts two to four weeks, can help to keep the inflammation under control. When physical therapy is not taking place, use of a walking boot may be helpful to reduce stress on the tendon. If Achilles Tendonitis is not treated, the condition could worsen to Achilles Tendonosis, which is the degeneration of the tendon.
Ankle Sprains-Indianapolis, IN
Ligaments of the ankle connect foot bones to each other. When one of these ligaments sustains damage, the ankle becomes sprained. Sprained ankles are common among athletes. Any movement that puts the ankle in an abnormal placement may cause an ankle sprain. Examples of such movements include twists or falls. When participating in athletic activities it is important to wear proper footwear because poor quality or inappropriate shoes may lead to this type of injury. Indications you may have a sprain include pain or soreness of the ankle. Other indicators include:
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Swelling or bruising
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Difficulties walking
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Joint stiffness
Treatment is crucial for a sprained ankle and prompt medical attention is required because the leg may become weaker, the injury might not heal properly, or severe bone complications, such as fracture, may occur. A common treatment for a sprained ankle is RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Rest gives the ankle ligaments an opportunity to heal while ice helps reduce the inflammation. Compression -- wrapping of the ankle with an elastic wrap --and elevation -- supporting the ankle about 3 feet off the floor -- work to decrease swelling. Recommended medications to help with pain are NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, but some physicians may prescribe pain medications if the injury is severe. If treatments fail to properly rehabilitate the ankle sprain, surgery may be necessary.
Arthritis-Indianapolis, IN
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are two types of arthritis that occur in the feet and ankles, with osteoarthritis being the most common. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between the bones begins to degenerate. The most common symptom of osteoarthritis is pain. Other symptoms include:
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Joint stiffness
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Swelling near joint
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Difficulties walking
Many non-surgical treatments are available to relieve pain and help regain function. NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, walking casts, and steroid injections are helpful in reducing inflammation. Custom shoe inserts can aid in pain reduction and correct abnormal arches. Special exercises may be encouraged by a doctor to help regain strength and stability.
RA is a type of arthritis that has unknown origins. Environmental triggers or genetics are two suggestions for the cause of RA. During RA, cells of the immune system get confused and begin attacking healthy joints, causing a myriad of foot issues. Symptoms of RA include:
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Rheumatoid nodules (lumps)
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Pain and swelling
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Difficulties walking
Custom shoe inserts and shoes can relieve pain and assist with walking. The use of steroid injections is a common practice for delivering an anti-inflammatory. Surgery to help with foot conditions that occur because of RA is a last resort.
Athlete’s Foot-Indianapolis, IN
Tenea pedis, most frequently known as Athlete’s Foot, occurs when fungi grow on the feet and cause a skin infection. It is a common condition among athletes and children who attend summer camp, but can affect anyone. Certain facilities are prime growing conditions for fungi like locker rooms, swimming pools, and showers, which can increase the risk of infection. Sweaty feet that spend all day in shoes are more likely to contract the condition than dry feet. You may have Athlete’s Foot if you exhibit the following symptoms:
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Itchy, dry, or scaly feet
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Cracked skin
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Inflammation
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Blisters
Not only is this condition annoying due to excessive itching but if not treated a bacterial infection could set in and possibly spread to the toenails. Keeping feet dry will decrease chances of fungi growth, so changing socks frequently is a good idea if engaging in activities that cause you to sweat. Avoid walking barefoot in public showers at the gym, around the pool, or anywhere else the conditions are warm and damp. Most of the time, over the counter (OTC) anti-fungal powders, sprays, or creams will treat Athlete’s Foot. If the condition is extreme and persistent, a doctor will prescribe stronger medication.