Foot and ankle conditions can bring your busy and active life to a screeching halt. There are many causes of foot and ankle pain. Fortunately, most foot and ankle conditions and injuries can be treated, so you can find relief from your symptoms.
Below are some of the most common foot and ankle conditions that you should be aware of. If you experience any of them, see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Arthritis
One of the most common foot and ankle conditions is arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease caused by wear and tear of the protective cartilage in the foot and ankle joints. Your foot and ankle joints are weight-bearing, and they are prone to degeneration as you age due to years of pressure on them. Osteoarthritis is common among older adults, but it can also affect young adults who incur serious foot or ankle injuries that cause the cartilage in the affected joints to wear down.
Bunions, Corns, and Calluses
A bunion (Hallux Valgus) is a type of deformity that forms on the outer side of the big toe. It is often caused by wearing ill-fitting, tight, or unsupportive shoes. Another issue caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes are corns, which refers to thickened skin with a central core that forms due to friction between your toes and footwear. Calluses refers to thickened skin without a core that forms under the foot. All of these conditions are common foot issues, and for many, they are more serious than aesthetic concerns. If you have bunions, corns, or calluses, talk to a podiatrist to discuss treatment options.
Foot and Ankle Fractures
An active lifestyle makes you prone to foot and ankle fractures. Exercising, dancing, jumping, and playing sports can result in fractures – especially when not wearing the right footwear or due to a lack of conditioning. Depending on the severity of it, your fracture may simply require rest to heal. If you suffer a severe fracture that results in multiple broken bones, you may need surgery to reposition the bones, so they heal properly.
Diabetic Foot
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, one of the best things you can do is to routinely see a foot and ankle doctor for diabetic foot care. High blood sugar levels can damage your nerves and cause peripheral neuropathy, and it generally starts in your feet. You may experience pain or a loss of sensation, which are hallmark symptoms of the condition.
Podiatrists can help slow the progression of neuropathy and prevent serious complications that can arise from a scratch or a small wound on your feet. A significant amount of foot and leg amputations are caused by improper foot care by diabetics. If you have diabetes, it is critical that you take care of your feet.
Treatment for Common Foot and Ankle Conditions in Central Maryland
The podiatrists and surgeons at The Centers for Advanced Orthopedics are experts in treating foot and ankle conditions – both common and complex – using the most advanced medications and other treatments available.
To schedule a consultation with our compassionate foot and ankle specialists, call (410) 644-1880 or send us an appointment request now.
