March 2023

There are a variety of rare foot conditions that might affect some individuals. For example, Maffucci syndrome is a rare foot condition. Many patients often ask podiatrists what the feet look like when they are affected by Maffucci syndrome. The answer is that the feet can become covered in growths that are characteristics of the condition. These growths are essentially known as multiple enchondromas, and they are ultimately made up of cartilage. If an individual has Maffucci syndrome, it is possible for it to be noticeable at birth. However, in other cases, the condition might not be noticeable until the age of 5. If you are someone that wants to learn more about Maffucci syndrome, then it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

The feet are highly intricate parts of the human body that have many different bones, each serving different and specialized functions. The cuneiform bones are a special group of bones in the feet that are located on the medial side of the foot. It can be important to learn more about these important bones to improve one’s knowledge of how the human foot functions. These bones help create the arch of the foot, and they are each located above the metatarsal bones. Importantly, there are three different cuneiform bones, each located next to the other. First, there is the medial cuneiform bone located at the edge of the foot. Second, there is the intermediate cuneiform bone located in between the other cuneiform bones. Third, and lastly, there is the lateral cuneiform bone. If you are someone who wants to learn more about the biomechanics of the human foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today and schedule an appointment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, and it can occur in places on your body that would likely not be considered, such as the feet. Since the feet are often neglected, a foot melanoma can spread without being noticed, which can have serious consequences. Signs of foot cancer can include a mole that changes appearance, black or brown vertical lines under the toenails, or non-healing sores. There may also be pain, bleeding, or itching in these areas. A practice of routine foot care will help greatly in noticing that something may be amiss on the feet and allow treatment before dire consequences result. This routine starts with washing, drying, and applying moisturizer to the feet daily. It is imperative the feet be examined as well. If looking between the toes, on the sides, and soles of the feet is difficult, a hand mirror can be used for an examination. Foot areas that have been injured, even if well-healed, are susceptible to this type of cancer. If you notice a suspicious marking on your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist as soon as possible for a professional exam.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & 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 our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When an individual breaks their foot, they have fractured one or more bones in the foot area. If your foot is broken, it is suggested that you seek out immediate attention from a podiatrist for treatment. A broken foot might undergo the healing process with the help of crutches. When using crutches for this injury, it may be important to remember certain things. For instance, when walking with crutches, you can put your weight not on the armpits that make contact with the crutches, but on the hands and arms. Additionally, a trusted medical professional can help you ensure that the crutches are fitting properly and that they properly fit you and your specific body type. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist if you have a broken foot and are considering the use of crutches.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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