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. 

Achilles Tendonitis

If you are suffering from painful swelling in the back of the foot, just above the heel, you might be experiencing Achilles Tendonitis issues. This condition affects millions of Americans, from athletes to couch potatoes. At Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care Center, we see and treat this condition quite regularly.

 

This condition affects the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body. It also connects the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone. The Achilles tendon is crucial to sustaining normal walking patters as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes.

This condition typically develops gradually as the tendon inflammation and may include one or more of the following three stages:

• Peritenonitis – an inflammatory and fibrous reaction between the tendon and the paratenon (areolar tissue filling the space between a tendon and its sheath). It may occur by itself or in conjunction with tendinosis.
• Tendinosis ­– typically an asymptomatic stage that may result in a nodule, or know to swelling at the back of the leg
• Peritenonitis with tendinosis - this stage may lead to a rupture of the tendon and it is characterized by pain and swelling during and after activity.

Similarly to most medical conditions, Achilles tendonitis is best treated early in its development. If you are experiencing pain and/or swelling in this region, a consultation with Dr. Harry Cotler will give you the best chance for a full recovery. You can schedule an appointment at our Soldotna, AK practice by calling (907) 260-3886 or visit us online at www.hcotler.com to learn more about our practice!

Hammertoes

Hammertoe is a common podiatric issue that is characterized by the bending of the middle joint in the second, third or fourth toes. While hammertoes are still flexible when the condition first presents itself, if left untreated, they can become rigid, only treatable through surgery. If you have hammertoe, it is important to seek treatment immediately in order to avoid corns, calluses and discomfort, and Dr. Harry Cotler has the experience and expertise to provide effective treatment here in Soldotna, AK.

Hammertoes are commonly caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or by a muscle imbalance in the foot in association with flat feet, injury or disease. Since muscles work in pairs to straighten and bend the toes, if the toe is bent and held in one position long enough, the muscles will tighten and be unable to stretch out. If left untreated, your toes can become rigid or develop open sores. The condition will not go away without treatment, and a visit to our office is imperative.  

At Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care, treatment for hammertoe usually starts with new shoes with soft and roomy toe boxes. Dr. Cotler may also prescribe exercises to do at home that stretch and strengthen the muscles, such as manually stretching the toes. In severe cases, surgery may be required, but only if conservative measures have already failed.

To schedule an appointment with our office, call 907-260-FOOT (3668). For more information, visit www.HCotler.com.