Haglund's Deformity

Haglund’s Deformity, sometimes called “pump hump” is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel bone. This condition is most common in women who wear pump-style shoes. The shape of the foot can also contribute to the development of this condition. If you have high arches, a tight Achilles tendon or a tendency to walk on the outside area of your feet, you are more likely to develop Haglund’s Deformity.

 

The inflammation on the back of the heel is caused when the soft tissue around the Achilles tendon becomes irritated. Irritation in this area is often the result of pressure caused by the back of pump-style shoes. Those suffering from Haglund’s Deformity often exhibit the following symptoms:

• Enlarged bony prominence on the back of the heel
• Heel pain
• Blisters on the heels
• Swelling in the back of the heel and redness or inflamed tissue at the site of the swelling

Our team at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center will carefully examine your feet and record a thorough medical history evaluation. There are many treatment options available, these options include shoe modification, medication, immobilization and in extreme cases, surgery. When home remedies do not work or the bump continues to enlarge, it’s time to seek medical attention from a podiatrist. Call today to schedule an appointment with our team. 

Ganglions

Ganglions are small, fluid-filled swellings of the joint and tendon that are located on the ankle or on top of the foot. They have the appearance of firm or spongy sacs of liquid and their insides consist of a sticky, clear, thick, jelly-like fluid. Typically they grow slowly and can cause severe irritation when they become too large.

 

The exact cause of ganglions is unknown, but some research has shown that they can form when trauma or repeated irritation weakens the joint or tendon lining. If you wear boots or other restrictive footwear, you may be more susceptible to this condition. Research has also shown that those with bone spurs may also find the pressure of the bony growth can also cause ganglions.

A ganglion usually appears as a smooth bump from 1 to 3 centimeters in diameter. It may disappear and reappear, may be soft or firm, and it may change size. In some cases, you might feel pain if the ganglion presses upon a nerve. If the ganglion is attached to a tendon, the affected area might feel weaker.

 

When it comes to treatment, Dr. Cotler will first complete a physical examination to determine the proper diagnosis. Ganglions often are mistaken for tumors, so visiting us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center will be extremely beneficial. Treatment methods range from pads placed around the ganglion to reduce pressure, fluid removal, icing and surgery. You can contact our podiatry professions to discuss your symptoms, receive a comprehensive diagnosis and discover the right treatment options. 

Morton's Neuroma

Morton’s Neuroma is a condition that makes it feel like you are “walking on a marble.”  This condition usually forms between the third and fourth toes. It is caused by irritation, trauma or excessive pressure. Morton’s Neuroma is eight to ten times more likely to occur in women than men because of their shoe choices.

 

If you are suffering from Morton’s Neuroma, there are no outward symptoms such as a bump or bulge. Common symptoms include a burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness sensation in the toes and a feeling of something inside the ball of the foot. The symptoms occur gradually and will intensify with overuse or improper footwear. You can temporarily diminish the pain by massaging the foot or by avoiding the activities that brought on the pain.

 

If symptoms persist or worsen over time, is might be time to visit us at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center. Treatment can come in many forms, such as:

• Changes in footwear – avoiding high heels or tight shoes enables the bones to spread out and may reduce pressure on the nerve, giving it time to heal
• Custom orthotics – custom shoe inserts and pads can be prescribed to relieve irritation. The orthotics will lift and separate the bones, reducing pressure on the nerve
• Injections – Corticosteroid medication can be prescribed to reduce swelling and inflammation in the nerve

You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler at Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center in Soldotna, AK, by calling 907-260-3668 or visit us online at www.hcotler.com. 

Heel Pain/Fasciitis

Heel pain has many causes, and depending on the affliction, can be extremely disruptive or even disabling. Heel pain is generally the caused by placing too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it. The stress may also result from an injury or a bruise caused by walking, running, or jumping on hard surfaces. It can also be caused by wearing poorly constructed footwear or being overweight.

 

If left untreated, heel pain can lead to further heel damage. Common heel conditions include:

• Heel spurs – bony growth on the underside of the heel bone
• Plantar Fasciitis – inflammation of the band of fibrous connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot
• Excessive pronation – normal, flexible motion and flattening of the arch
• Achilles tendinitis – inflammation of the Achilles tendon

Treatment for heel conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis is simple. At Affiliated Ankle & Foot Care Center, Dr. Cotler recommends patients participate in activities such as stretching, icing, footwear change and anti-inflammatory medications to help ease heel pain. If you are experiencing heel pain, visit with our Soldotna, AK to learn if you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis.