Month: November 2015

Cancer and the Foot

Posted on by Staff

Cancer can affect the foot either via a primary tumor in a tissue in the foot or as a secondary tumor from a more proximal metastasis.

{openx:185}

Cancer can affect the foot in several ways, both directly and indirectly. Primary cancers of the foot are rare, but tumors can develop in the bones, soft tissues, or skin of the area. For example, malignant melanoma may arise on the skin of the foot, often mistaken at first for something less serious like a mole or wart. Bone cancers such as osteosarcoma or chondrosarcoma can also appear in the small bones of the foot, causing localized pain, swelling, and deformity. Because of the limited soft tissue around the bones in the foot, even small tumors may cause significant symptoms.

The impact of cancer on the foot can also come from metastasis. Cancers originating in other parts of the body, such as the lungs or breast, can spread to the bones of the foot, though this is uncommon. When it does occur, patients may experience persistent, unexplained pain that worsens at night or with weight-bearing activities. Metastatic lesions often weaken the bone structure, increasing the risk of pathological fractures in the foot, which can severely limit mobility and quality of life.

Treatment for foot cancers often involves a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the tumor. Surgery might range from excision of small lesions to partial or full amputation of the affected area if the cancer is extensive. This can have profound consequences for walking, balance, and daily activities. Even when surgery is successful, rehabilitation and custom orthotic support are often necessary to restore function and reduce discomfort.

Beyond the direct effects of cancer, treatments themselves can also impact foot health. Chemotherapy and radiation may cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the feet. These nerve changes can make walking difficult and increase the risk of injuries or ulcers, especially in patients with other conditions like diabetes. Additionally, reduced blood supply from radiation damage or surgical interventions can impair healing in the foot, making it especially vulnerable to infection and long-term complications.

Most Useful Resources:
Cancer (Foot Health Forum)
Cancer threads (Podiatry Arena)
Cancer metastasis in the foot (Podiatry Arena)
Cancer and the Foot (PodiaPaedia)
The Oncologist (Podiatry Apps)

{openx:185}

Burning Feet

Posted on by Staff

The symptoms of a burning foot or feet are almost always due to some underlying neurological problem. The treatment options are often limited and the problem can be quite distressing.

{openx:185}

Burning feet is a sensation often described as warmth, tingling, or even a painful burning feeling in the soles or toes. This condition can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities and sleep. The sensation may be constant or intermittent and is usually more noticeable at night. While it is not a disease on its own, burning feet is a symptom that can point to various underlying issues.

One of the most common causes of burning feet is peripheral neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves that transmit signals between the body and the brain are damaged. This can result from diabetes, chronic alcohol use, vitamin deficiencies (particularly B vitamins), or exposure to toxins. Neuropathy leads to abnormal nerve firing, causing sensations of burning, numbness, or tingling. Since diabetes is a leading global cause, burning feet is often considered a warning sign of diabetic nerve damage.

Other possible causes include circulatory problems, fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, kidney disease, thyroid dysfunction, or even mechanical issues like nerve entrapment in the lower back or legs. Some people may also experience burning feet due to prolonged standing, poorly fitting footwear, or excessive exercise. In rare cases, autoimmune conditions and certain medications can also trigger the symptom. Because of this wide range, identifying the exact cause requires careful medical evaluation.

Management of burning feet depends on addressing the underlying cause. For example, strict blood sugar control can slow or prevent further nerve damage in diabetics, while vitamin supplements may help in cases of deficiency. Symptom relief may involve cooling foot baths, comfortable footwear, and topical or oral medications to reduce nerve pain. In persistent or worsening cases, seeking medical advice is important, as untreated neuropathy or circulation issues can lead to serious complications.

Most Useful Resources:
Burning Feet (Foot Health Forum)
Burning feet (Podiatry Arena)
Reasons for burning feet (Podiatry Arena)
Burning Feet (PodiaPaedia)
Burning foot (ePodiatry)
De Agony of De Burning Feet (Foot Health Friday)
Burning Feet (Podiatry Ninja)

{openx:185}

Calcaneal Apophysitis

Posted on by Staff

Calcaneal Apophysitis is also called Severs Disease and is a common condition of the growth plate at the back of the heel bone in kids.The pain is present at the back and sides of the heel, usually worse after sports activity. As it is a problem with the growth plate, it will come right on its own as the child’s growth in the heel bone stops. It is most commonly treated with a cushioned heel inserts and is a self limiting problem that eventually comes right by itself.

{openx:185}

This video from PodChatLive was a good discussion on Calcaneal Apophysitis with an expert in the topic for those who want a deep dive into the topic:

For other videos on Severs disease, see PodiatryTube.

Calcaneal apophysitis, more commonly known as Sever’s disease, is an overuse injury that primarily affects children and adolescents. It occurs at the growth plate (apophysis) in the heel bone (calcaneus), where the Achilles tendon attaches. During periods of rapid growth, especially between the ages of 8 and 15, the bones often grow faster than the muscles and tendons, creating tension at this attachment point. The repetitive stress from activities such as running, jumping, or playing sports can irritate and inflame the growth plate, leading to heel pain. Importantly, despite the name “disease,” it is not an infection or degenerative condition—it is a self-limiting growth-related issue.

The hallmark symptom of calcaneal apophysitis is pain at the back or underside of the heel, which worsens with physical activity and improves with rest. Children may limp, walk on their toes to avoid putting pressure on the heel, or complain of soreness after sports practice. The pain is usually bilateral (in both heels) but can occur in just one heel. Swelling and tenderness may also be present around the heel bone. Unlike plantar fasciitis, which is more common in adults and involves pain under the arch or heel, calcaneal apophysitis is specifically tied to skeletal immaturity and growth plate stress.

Diagnosis is generally clinical, based on history and physical examination. Imaging like X-rays is not always necessary unless there is concern about other causes of heel pain, such as fractures, infections, or tumors. Doctors often perform a “squeeze test,” applying pressure to the heel from both sides, which typically reproduces the pain. Since it’s strongly linked to growth spurts and high-impact activities, understanding the child’s sports involvement and developmental stage is essential. Differential diagnoses may include Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, or bursitis, but these are less common in this age group.

Treatment for calcaneal apophysitis is usually conservative and focuses on relieving symptoms while allowing the growth plate to heal. Rest and activity modification are crucial, particularly avoiding repetitive jumping and running until symptoms improve. Ice, stretching exercises for the calf and Achilles tendon, and heel cups or cushioned shoe inserts can help reduce stress on the heel. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may also ease discomfort. Most children outgrow the condition as the growth plate closes, meaning symptoms rarely persist into adulthood. The key is to balance physical activity with adequate rest, ensuring young athletes can continue participating in sports witho

Most Useful Resources on this topic:
Calcaneal Apophysitis (Foot Health Forum)
Calcaneal Apohysitis or Stress fracture (Podiatry Arena)
Calcaneal Apophysitis (Podiatry Arena)
Calcaneal Apophysitis (PodiaPaedia)
Heel Pain in Children (Severs Disease; Calcaneal apophysitis) (ePodiatry)
Severs Disease or Calcaneal Apophysitis? (Croydon Total FootCare)

{openx:185}

Bunion Surgery

Posted on by Staff

Bunion Surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures done. It is also unique in that there are probably more variations in the surgical techniques and options for bunion surgery than there is for any other surgical procedure. For example, there is the Chevron Osteotomy and the Austion Bunionectomy.

{openx:185}

Bunion surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, is typically performed to relieve pain and correct the deformity caused by a bunion — a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. Before the procedure, patients can expect a thorough evaluation including X-rays to assess the severity of the bunion and determine the appropriate surgical approach. Surgeons usually explain the different techniques that may be used, which can range from removing bone and realigning tendons to fusing joints, depending on the complexity of the case.

Immediately after the surgery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the surgical site. Pain is usually managed with prescribed medication, and the foot may be placed in a protective boot, cast, or special shoe to keep weight off the operated area. It’s common for patients to need crutches, a walker, or a scooter to move around during the initial recovery phase. Elevating the foot and applying ice are also standard recommendations to reduce swelling in the first couple of weeks.

The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery, but most people can expect to be limited in mobility for several weeks. Weight-bearing is often restricted at first, gradually progressing as the foot heals. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore range of motion and strengthen the foot. Swelling can persist for months, and it may take up to 6–12 months for the foot to fully recover and feel “normal” again. Patience and adherence to post-operative instructions are critical for the best outcomes.

Finally, while bunion surgery often provides significant relief from pain and corrects deformity, it’s important to have realistic expectations. There is always a risk of complications such as infection, stiffness, nerve irritation, or recurrence of the bunion. Most patients do experience improved function and reduced discomfort, but the foot may not be completely free of pain or perfectly straight. Long-term success often depends on maintaining proper footwear choices and avoiding habits that contributed to the bunion’s development in the first place.

Most Useful Resources:
Bunion Surgery (Foot Health Forum)
HAV Surgery (Podiatry Arena)
Bunion Surgery (Bunion Surgery)

{openx:185}