December 2023

There has been a growing interest in total ankle replacement due to concerns about the long-term results of ankle fusion surgery. This interest has led to the development of new ankle implants that better mimic the natural structure and movement of the ankle, including its ligaments and alignment. Although the newer 2nd-generation ankle replacements are showing promising results for patients with severe ankle arthritis, there are still challenges. One issue is that ankle replacements tend to fail more often than other joint replacements. This may be because it is hard for surgeons to perfectly replicate the ankle's complex stability and movement during surgery. To improve the chances of success, it is important to make sure this is the correct surgery for you. If you have not had success with more conservative treatments for ankle arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if you would be a good candidate for ankle replacement surgery.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot ailment, manifest as fissures or splits in the skin around the heel area. The primary cause of this condition lies in the lack of moisture, leading to dry and hardened skin. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can exacerbate the problem, as the pressure on the feet intensifies. Obesity is another contributing factor, as excess weight puts additional strain on the feet, fostering the development of cracks. In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or hypothyroidism may contribute to the dryness of the skin, increasing the risk of cracked heels. Lack of proper foot care, including infrequent moisturizing and neglecting to exfoliate dead skin, further amplifies the susceptibility to cracked heels. Understanding these causes is pivotal for adopting preventive measures and a comprehensive foot care routine, ensuring the maintenance of soft, healthy heels. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment and prevention techniques.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can stem from a myriad of causes, each intricately tied to the complex structure of the foot. One prevalent contributor is improper footwear, as shoes with an ill fit or high heels can induce foot pain and disorders. The foot, supporting the body's weight, is susceptible to injuries during high-impact activities like running or aerobics. These activities can lead to ligament sprains, muscle or tendon strains, and foot bone fractures. Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis may also play a role in foot pain. Osteoarthritis arises from cartilage overuse around joints, commonly affecting the big toe, ankle, and midfoot. Meanwhile, rheumatoid arthritis introduces pain, stiffness, swelling, soreness, and warmth in the foot and ankle joints. Diabetes, with its repercussions like nerve damage, reduced blood flow, and ulcers, often contributes significantly to foot pain. Numerous other conditions further complicate foot health, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles’ tendonitis. Corns, calluses, bunions, and plantar warts are other sources of foot pain. Ingrown toenails, Morton’s neuroma, and hammertoes may induce pain in parts of the foot. Peripheral arterial disease, gout, and flat feet are still other conditions that generate foot pain. If you experience any type of foot pain that persists or gets worse, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, is a prevalent foot condition that affects many individuals, especially as they age. A bunion is characterized by the big toe bending towards the smaller toes, accompanied by a painful bony protrusion at the inside of the foot. Recent research shows the prevalence and factors associated with hallux valgus in an older adult population, and women in particular. The study revealed that the prevalence of bunion deformity was higher in women and increased with age. Family history, wearing high-heeled or narrow shoes, and having flat feet were identified as contributing factors. The severity of hallux valgus also significantly affected participants' quality of life. Additionally, participants reporting foot pain in the previous 12 months showed higher scores in both pain and decreased function, highlighting the substantial impact of bunions on daily activities. This research emphasizes the importance of proactive foot care, especially for older women who are more susceptible to the formation of bunions. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist, appropriate footwear choices, and early intervention can play an important role in preventing and managing this foot deformity. For help in managing the pain and side effects of bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for the appropriate treatment option.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.