Achilles injuries

Achilles injuries are commonly encountered in sports and physical activities, typically affecting the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. These injuries can range from mild strains to complete ruptures, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or participating in activities. Achilles injuries often require rest, immobilization, and physical therapy to promote healing and restore strength and flexibility. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.  Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of any orthopaedic injury is crucial for a successful recovery and a return to regular activities.

Common Achilles Injuries and Conditions:

• Achilles Tendonitis: This is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, usually caused by overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon. It can result in pain, swelling, and stiffness around the heel and lower leg.

• Achilles Tendon Rupture: A complete or partial tear of the Achilles tendon can occur, often from a sudden force or overstretching. This injury typically causes immediate pain, difficulty walking, and a noticeable gap or indentation above the heel.

• Achilles Tendinosis: Also known as Achilles tendon degeneration, this condition involves the gradual breakdown of the tendon's structure due to repetitive microtrauma. It may cause pain, thickening of the tendon, and reduced function.

• Achilles Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone can lead to Achilles bursitis. It can cause pain, swelling, and warmth in the back of the heel.

• Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy: This condition affects the insertion point of the Achilles tendon at the heel bone. It can result from repetitive stress or inflammation, leading to pain, tenderness, and sometimes the formation of a bone spur.
  

Ankle replacements

Also known as total ankle arthroplasty, and ankle replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or arthritic ankle joint with an artificial joint. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have severe ankle pain and disability that does not respond to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or bracing.

Ankle replacements aim to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve the overall function of the ankle joint. During the surgery, the damaged surfaces of the ankle joint are removed, and metal or plastic components are implanted to recreate the joint's structure. The artificial joint allows for smooth movement and weight-bearing, enabling patients to resume activities that were once limited due to ankle problems. Post-surgery rehabilitation and adherence to the recommended postoperative care plan are crucial for a successful recovery and long-term outcomes.

Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries affecting the ankle joint. They occur when the ligaments that connect the bones of the ankle are stretched or torn, typically due to sudden twisting, rolling, or turning of the foot. Ankle sprains can happen during sports activities, daily tasks, or simply by stepping on an uneven surface.

Symptoms of an ankle sprain often include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. Prompt and appropriate treatment is crucial to facilitate healing and prevent long-term complications.

Initial treatment typically involves the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) to reduce swelling and pain. Immobilization through the use of a brace or cast may be necessary for more severe sprains. Most ankle sprains heal well, but it is essential to seek medical attention to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Different Grades of ankle sprains:

• Grade I Sprain (Mild): A Grade I sprain involves minimal stretching or tearing of the ligaments. It is characterized by mild pain, minimal swelling, and minimal joint instability. Walking and bearing weight on the affected ankle are usually possible.

• Grade II Sprain (Moderate): A Grade II sprain indicates a partial tearing of the ligaments. It involves more significant pain, swelling, bruising, and moderate joint instability. Walking and bearing weight on the affected ankle are usually difficult or painful.

• Grade III Sprain (Severe): A Grade II sprain involves a complete tear of the ligaments. It results in severe pain, significant swelling, extensive bruising, and substantial joint instability. Walking and bearing weight on the affected ankle are often not possible or extremely painful.

Arthritis

Foot arthritis refers to the inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the foot, commonly affecting the toes, midfoot, or hindfoot. It can be caused by various factors, such as age-related wear and tear (osteoarthritis), autoimmune conditions (rheumatoid arthritis), or prior injuries. Foot arthritis can result in pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility, making it challenging to walk or engage in regular activities.

The specific symptoms and affected joints may vary depending on the type and location of arthritis. Treatment options for foot arthritis aim to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and enhance overall foot health. They may include conservative measures such as rest, physical therapy, medication, orthotic devices, and supportive footwear. In more severe cases, surgical interventions, such as joint fusion or joint replacement, may be considered. Consult with Dr. Julie Neumann to obtain an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Bunions

A bunion is a common foot deformity characterized by a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe gradually deviates or angles towards the other toes, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to protrude. Bunions can be caused by various factors, including genetics, improper footwear, foot structure abnormalities, and certain medical conditions.

Symptoms of bunions typically include pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness at the affected area. As the bunion progresses, it can lead to difficulty in finding comfortable shoes, corns or calluses, and limited movement of the big toe.

Conservative treatments for bunions may include wearing wider shoes, using padding or orthotic devices to alleviate pressure, applying ice or taking over-the-counter pain relievers. In cases where conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered to realign the joint and remove the bony prominence.

FlatFoot

Flatfoot, also known as pes planus, is a condition characterized by the arches of the foot being lower or completely absent, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground when standing. Flatfoot can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to factors such as aging, injury, or certain medical conditions.

Symptoms of flatfoot can vary, with some individuals experiencing pain, swelling, or fatigue in the foot or ankle area, while others may not have any noticeable symptoms. Flatfoot can affect gait and balance, leading to potential discomfort or difficulties with activities that involve standing or walking for extended periods.

Treatment options for flatfoot depend on the severity of symptoms and may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, physical therapy exercises to strengthen the foot muscles, and in some cases, surgery to correct structural abnormalities.

Fractures

Foot and ankle fractures are common injuries that can occur due to trauma, falls, sports activities, or accidents. Fractures in this area can involve any of the bones in the foot or ankle, including the toes, metatarsals, ankle bones (talus and tibia), or heel bone (calcaneus). The severity of a fracture can vary, ranging from hairline fractures to complete breaks with bone displacement.

Symptoms of a foot or ankle fracture include severe pain, swelling, bruising, inability to bear weight or walk, and deformity in the affected area. Prompt medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of fractures.

Treatment options depend on the type, location, and severity of the fracture but may involve immobilization with a cast or splint, pain management, elevation, and rest. In some cases, fractures may require realignment through manual manipulation or surgical intervention, followed by a period of rehabilitation and physical therapy to restore strength and function to the foot and ankle.

Common foot & ankle Fractures:

• Ankle Fractures: These fractures involve the bones of the ankle joint, typically the tibia (shinbone) and fibula (calf bone). Ankle fractures can occur in various patterns, such as lateral malleolus fractures (involving the fibula), medial malleolus fractures (involving the tibia), or bimalleolar fractures (involving both).

• Metatarsal Fractures: The metatarsal bones are the long bones in the middle of the foot. Fractures can occur in any of the metatarsals due to direct trauma or repetitive stress. The fifth metatarsal, known as a Jones fracture, is particularly prone to injury.

• Calcaneus Fractures: The calcaneus is the heel bone. Fractures in this bone often occur from high-energy trauma, such as a fall from height or a car accident. Calcaneus fractures can result in significant pain, swelling, and deformity.

• Lisfranc Fractures: These fractures involve the bones at the middle of the foot, specifically the tarsometatarsal joint. Lisfranc fractures can occur from twisting or direct impact, causing instability and pain in the midfoot.

• Toe Fractures: Fractures can affect any of the toes, commonly from direct trauma or stubbing the toe. The fifth toe (pinky toe) is particularly susceptible to fractures.

Peroneal tendon injuries

Peroneal tendon injuries involve damage or inflammation to the peroneal tendons, which are located on the outside of the ankle. These tendons play a crucial role in stabilizing the ankle and controlling foot movement. Injuries to these tendons can occur due to repetitive stress, overuse, acute trauma, or underlying foot and ankle conditions. Common peroneal tendon injuries include tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons), tendon tears, and subluxation (slipping out of place) of the tendons.

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, instability, weakness, and difficulty with activities that involve ankle and foot movement.

Treatment for peroneal tendon injuries typically involves rest, immobilization with a brace or cast, physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons or address severe tears. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial to accurately diagnose and treat peroneal tendon injuries to prevent further complications and ensure proper healing.

Dr. Julie Neumann

A runner and an

orthopaedic surgeon

Watch Dr. Julie Neumann share her experience with long-distance running. She emphasizes that proper stretching and recovery are essential to preventing injuries and maintaining peak performance.