Podiatry, the branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to the feet and lower extremities, plays a pivotal role in managing various musculoskeletal conditions. From common afflictions like plantar fasciitis and hammertoes to more complex issues such as high arches and bunions, podiatrists are at the forefront of providing comprehensive care to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and enhance overall foot health.
In this article, we delve into the diverse array of musculoskeletal disorders addressed by podiatrists, exploring their causes, symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatment modalities. Understanding the pivotal role of podiatry in managing these conditions is paramount for ensuring optimal foot function and mitigating the impact of musculoskeletal ailments on daily life.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a band of tough connective tissue that supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock when you walk. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It typically causes a sharp stabbing pain that is most severe when you take your first steps after sitting or getting up from standing. The pain usually gets better as you walk, but it can become worse if you spend too much time on your feet or wear unsupportive shoes.
A Sunshine Coast podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis from your symptoms and a physical exam. They may also do an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to make sure it isn’t another problem, such as a bone spur, that’s causing your heel pain.
Your healthcare provider can help you manage your plantar fasciitis by telling you how to stretch and strengthen your feet. They may recommend a specific stretching program, such as rolling your foot on a cold or rough surface, or heel cord stretching. They may also suggest wearing a night splint to keep your feet in the right position while you sleep.
High Arch
The feet are a complex structure that can cause significant foot pain and deformities. People with high arches (pes cavus) may develop arch pain from wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support for the foot and ankle. The abnormal arch motion also causes the foot and ankle to absorb more shock than normal, which can cause stress on the joints of the knees, hips, and lower back.
A podiatrist can prescribe special shoes, insoles, and braces to treat the condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
The most common reason for the high arch is the inherited condition Charcot-Marie-Tooth, a motor neuropathy that reduces the strength of the muscles that support the foot. Other causes include a tethered cord, which can occur in children and teenagers who are still growing and causes one-sided high arch. Fortunately, this is usually a reversible condition with therapy.
Hammertoes
Hammer toes are a deformity of the second through fifth toes that cause the toes to bend downward. They can be present at birth or develop slowly over time and tend to worsen if left untreated. Most hammer toes begin as a mild bending and become more rigid over time. These bending toes rub against shoes and can cause corns or calluses on top of the affected toe or between the toes.
If hammer toes are in their early stages, when the deformity is still flexible, they may be treated with a combination of padding, shoe inserts, and toe exercises. In more serious or longstanding cases, surgery is needed.
Most people who have hammer toes notice a painful bump or callus on the end of their big toe or the middle of their foot near the toe joint. They might also have a painful callus on the ball of their foot or have toes that point outward.
Bunions
A bunion is a painful bump that forms on the outside of your big toe. It happens when the bones in your foot shift over time, causing the toe joint to get out of alignment and creating pressure that leads to redness, swelling, and stiffness. Bunions are more common in women, because tight shoes or high heels can put your toes into unnatural positions, but genetics and other factors also contribute.
A podiatrist in Buderim can diagnose bunions by looking at the front of your feet, checking how you walk, and examining the insides of your shoes. They can treat the pain with nonsurgical options like padding, taping, changes to footwear, orthotics (over-the-counter and custom), icing, and medications. Surgery can be used to correct the deformity by repositioning bone, ligaments, and tendons. Juvenile bunions should be treated with a conservative approach to avoid damage to the open growth plates and prevent the progression of the deformity.
As we reflect on the multifaceted role of podiatry in addressing musculoskeletal disorders, it becomes evident that the expertise and dedication of podiatrists are invaluable assets in the realm of healthcare. From the meticulous diagnosis of conditions like plantar fasciitis and bunions to the implementation of personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, podiatrists play a pivotal role in restoring function and alleviating discomfort in the feet and lower extremities. By fostering collaboration with other healthcare professionals and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, podiatrists continue to pioneer innovative approaches to care, thereby empowering individuals to regain mobility, enhance their quality of life, and embark on a journey towards lasting foot health. In embracing the comprehensive care provided by podiatrists, individuals can take confident steps forward, knowing that their musculoskeletal well-being is in capable hands.
