Nov
25
2008
Tendon imbalance over time will result in the gradual pull of the toes up into a contracted position. Tendon imbalance is generally due to faulty foot mechanics and may be associated with a high or low arch foot. With a high or low arch foot, the pull of the tendons on the top of the foot will not equal the pull of the tendons on the bottom of the foot. This unequal pull will cause the gradual rise of the toes. As the toe rises, it presses down on the metatarsal head (as seen in the picture above) which can result in pressure on the bottom of the foot. It may take decades for the hammertoes to develop. Small shoes or high heels can contribute to the development of hammertoes, but in most cases simply rub the tops of the toes and cause irritation and corns.
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Nov
14
2008
Plantar fasciitis (Plan - TAR fash – ee – I - tis) is the medical term used to describe the most common cause of heel pain. Plantar means bottom of the foot. Fascia is defined as a band of connective tissue, similar in composition to a ligament, which sits below the skin and separates different layers of tissue. Itis means inflammation. The plantar fascia originates on the bottom of the heel bone and extends towards the bases of the toes. Plantar fasciitis has been classically described as microscopic tearing and subsequent inflammation of the plantar fascia.
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Nov
04
2008
The following is a press release by the American Podiatric Medical Association
New Stem Cell Injections May Help Prevent Amputations: American Podiatric Medical Association Member Assisting in Breakthrough Clinical Trials
October 20, 2008
Bethesda, MD– Poor blood flow to the lower limbs is a health condition that many Americans with diabetes experience. But without early detection and proper treatment, amputation is often the final outcome. In fact, more than 60 percent of non-traumatic, lower limb amputations every year occur as a result of diabetes. Diabetes is considered a major risk factor for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and critical limb ischemia (CLI) – blood flow conditions that affect the lower limbs and can lead to amputation. However, an on-going clinical research trial using adult stem cells may help to improve blood flow and heal chronic sores for millions of people with diabetes who develop these lower limb conditions. Continue Reading »