Items filtered by date: September 2024

Minimally invasive bunionectomies are transforming the approach to treating bunions, offering a less disruptive alternative to traditional surgery. Unlike conventional procedures, which involve large incisions and a lengthy recovery period, minimally invasive techniques use small incisions and specialized instruments to realign the bones. This results in less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and faster recovery times. Patients typically experience less postoperative pain and are able to resume normal activities sooner than with traditional surgery. Another advantage is a lower risk of complications, such as infection or stiffness, due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure. It offers a more patient-friendly option with similar long-term outcomes. If you are seeking quicker recovery and less disruption to your daily life from bunion surgery, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to see if this minimally invasive procedure will work for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Ankle injuries are a frequent concern and can range from minor to severe. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, causes pain and stiffness in the ankle, often due to wear and tear over time. Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, typically from sudden twists or falls, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited movement. Fractures or broken bones in the ankle can result from trauma or severe impact, leading to intense pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Additionally, gout, a type of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup, can also affect the ankle, causing sudden, severe pain and swelling. If you have ankle pain or any of the above conditions, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A dancer’s ankle and foot are marvels of flexibility and strength, designed to support high-impact movements and intricate footwork. Structurally, the foot comprises 26 bones, 33 joints, and numerous muscles and tendons that work in harmony to enable precise and graceful dance movements. However, this demanding use can lead to common problems like sprains, tendonitis, and stress fractures. One frequent issue is Achilles tendonitis, which arises from overuse or improper technique, causing pain and inflammation in the back of the heel. Another is plantar fasciitis, marked by sharp heel pain from inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Additionally, dancers are prone to metatarsal stress fractures due to repetitive stress on the foot bones. If you experience these issues with your feet or ankles, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor circulation, or peripheral arterial disease, occurs when blood flow to the extremities, particularly the feet, is reduced due to narrowed or blocked arteries. This condition often results from atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up on artery walls, or from other factors like diabetes, smoking, or high blood pressure. When circulation is compromised, the feet may not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. Common signs include cold feet, numbness or tingling. Cramping, discoloration, slow-healing sores, and in severe cases, tissue damage or infections are other signs. These symptoms can affect mobility and increase the risk of serious complications, such as ulcers or gangrene. If you suspect poor circulation, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can assess your condition, recommend treatments like compression therapy, lifestyle changes, or medication, and help prevent further complications.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Paul Hutchison, DPM of Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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