Common foot and ankle problems—and solutions

Most people in the United States take an average of 4,774 steps each day, according to a study at Stanford University. Since it takes around 2,000 steps to walk a mile, it means we are relying heavily on our feet and ankles to take us several miles each day. However, most of us pay little attention to our feet and ankles until something happens to them.

Here are some of the common problems, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons that can affect your ability to take those thousands of steps each day.

Bunions
A bunion is a slowly developing bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of big toe. Bunions commonly occur when there is pressure on the big toe joint that makes it lean toward the second toe, eventually causing the normal structure of the foot to change. Wearing shoes that are too tight can increase the chances of developing a bunion. Some bunions are so painful that it becomes difficult to walk. In these cases, your doctor may suggest surgery to realign the bones, ligaments, tendons and nerves so that the big toe is back in its proper position.

Hammer toe
A hammer toe is actually a deformity of the toes where the toe is bent at the middle joint. If left untreated, it becomes increasingly painful. For some people, the best option is surgery to correct the deformity.

Ankle fractures
In the past decade, doctors have noticed an increase in the number of ankle fractures, a break in one or more bones in the ankle. They are seeing most of these breaks in the aging population who are determined to be active. In some cases, people take up new activities too quickly. It is important to maintain strength in the ankle ligaments that hold the ankle bone and joint in position before taking up a strenuous activity. If these ligaments are not strong, the chances of fracturing the ankle increases. Some ankle fractures leave the foot so unstable, surgery may be needed to repair the break. There are several surgical options including placing screws in the bones of the ankle or placing a plate along the bone.

Arthritis of the foot and ankle
One of the most common causes for foot and ankle pain is arthritis. There are three bones that form the ankle joint and each foot has 28 bones and more than 30 joints. In many of these joints, there is articular cartilage that helps the bones move smoothly. Joints also have a a thin lining that produces a fluid to lubricate the cartilage during movement. Over time, these protective parts become less effective and the joints become inflamed, making movement painful. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis that present differently and cause varying levels of pain. Sometimes the pain only occurs with motion, while in other cases the joint itself becomes swollen and painful when touched. If the pain makes it too difficult to walk, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure like fusing the joint bones together to relieve pain.

Arthroplasty as the remedy
In some situations where there is extensive damage from arthritis or injury, a total ankle replacement known as a Arthroplasty is the best remedy. Replacing the ankle can relieve arthritic pain and allow for better movement than other surgical options. Arthroplasty is not as common as hip or knee replacement surgery but new advances in the procedure are making it more popular.

Getting back on your feet
As with any surgery, there needs to be a time of recovery. This is especially true with foot and ankle surgery when there needs to be a time of gentle use while the bones heal. Putting too much weight on the joint can cause the plates to break before the bones have healed.

Keeping weight off your feet and ankles following surgery can be challenging since they are such an integral part of daily life. This is one reason why many people choose to spend time in a short-term rehabilitation center following foot or ankle surgery. Experienced staff at these centers can help with everyday life as well providing rehabilitation services that are crucial for healing quickly and successfully. It can be very tempting to take a risk while recovering at home but at a rehabilitation center, there is always the proper care and supervision.

A premier location
Glenview Terrace is an ideal choice for short-term recovery following foot or ankle surgery or any other major procedure. Experienced therapists provide the perfect amount of one-on-one physical and occupational therapies seven days a week to speed the healing process and increase mobility. An attentive nursing staff ensures all of your doctor’s orders are met and can quickly react to any issues. The staff can also manage pain by administering medications at prescribed times and offering other relief options like massage. Glenview Terrace also provides a healthy diet at every meal filled with all of the protein, vitamins and iron needed for healing.

A stay at Glenview Terrace is all about healing as quickly as possible in an elegant setting. Amenities include elegantly appointed rooms with bathrooms featuring walk-in showers. Thoughtful extras for short-term rehabilitation guests include morning coffee and newspaper delivery as well as concierge services. The beautifully landscaped grounds with a spacious patio and tranquil fountain also provide both an elegant and calming environment for a time of recovery.

When it is time for expert care during a time of healing, consider Glenview Terrace where the focus is always to help get you back to the independent lifestyle you desire. For additional information or to arrange a tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.