Items filtered by date: December 2024

Mueller-Weisse disease is a rare congenital foot condition that affects the bones and structures in the arch of the foot. It occurs when the arch fails to develop properly during early childhood, leading to an abnormal shape of the foot. The exact cause of Mueller-Weisse disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve genetic factors that impact the formation of the tarsal bones. Symptoms of the condition include a flat or collapsed arch, pain in the midfoot or heel, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. As the condition progresses, the foot may become more rigid and less flexible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing symptoms, which may include custom orthotics, or in severe cases, surgery to improve function and comfort. If your child has been born with this condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team who can help you to manage Mueller-Weisse disease.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle, such as arthritis, tendonitis, and deformities like bunions or flat feet, often evolve gradually but can significantly challenge the quality of life. These conditions frequently arise from wear and tear, injury, genetic predisposition, or underlying issues like diabetes or obesity. Over time, inflammation, joint damage, or altered biomechanics can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Simple activities like walking or standing may become difficult, limiting independence and daily function. As symptoms progress, compensatory gait changes can strain other joints, leading to knee, hip, or back pain. Chronic discomfort may also impact mental well-being. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a prompt diagnosis and treatment to avoid negative effects on the quality of your life.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but stretching offers a simple way to ease discomfort and promote foot health. Regular stretches can reduce tension surrounding the big toe joint, slowing bunion progression and relieving pressure on the metatarsophalangeal joints. Strengthening foot and toe muscles through stretches improves stability and reduces strain on the affected area. Toe pulls, where you gently pull your big toe away from the second toe to encourage alignment, and toe splays, spreading your toes wide to increase flexibility, are particularly effective. These exercises improve joint mobility and alleviate daily pain caused by bunions. While stretching can help, bunions often require individualized care. If you are having persistent bunion pain or the bunion is increasing in size, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for tailored advice and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In high school sports, basketball, soccer, and track are among the top activities causing foot injuries. Basketball involves sudden stops, jumps, and pivots, leading to sprained ankles, stress fractures, and plantar fasciitis. Soccer players, constantly changing direction and coming into contact with other players, are prone to ankle sprains, toe injuries, and heel pain. In track and field, high-impact running, jumping, and repeated pressure on the feet often result in stress fractures, shin splints, and Achilles tendinitis. Injuries happen from overuse, poor conditioning, inadequate footwear, or sudden, intense movements. Prevention includes wearing proper footwear for the sport, warming up effectively, and gradually building strength and flexibility in the feet and ankles. If a foot or ankle injury occurs in your teen child, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and structured treatment plan.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Exercising barefoot has both benefits and potential drawbacks. One of the main advantages is that it helps strengthen the muscles in the feet and lower legs, improving balance and posture. Without the cushioning of shoes, the feet engage more, potentially leading to better proprioception and increased foot mobility. Barefoot workouts can also improve overall foot alignment and reduce the risk of certain injuries, such as ankle sprains. However, there are also some downsides. Exercising without shoes can increase the risk of cuts, bruises, or other foot injuries, especially when performing activities on hard or uneven surfaces. It can also put additional stress on the joints, particularly for individuals with pre-existing foot conditions like flat feet or plantar fasciitis. If you have injured your foot while exercising, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions, in addition to guiding you on exercising barefoot.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.