Disorders of the foot

The plantar fasciitis is a sharp pain felt under the heel. This pain is usually more intense after a period of rest, like getting out of bed in the morning. These symptoms tend to decrease after a few minutes, but will reappear later in the day.

It is caused by a strong tension of the plantar fascia. This structure is responsible of the plantar arch. In the case of the sag of the feet, this fibrous tissue becomes too tense, which produce some micro-tears.

The initial treatments include:

• Applying ice, stretching and foot massage
• Wearing proper shoes at all times
• Wearing foot orthotics
• The use of night splints
• The use of anti-inflammatory
• The infiltration of corticosteroids

The thorn of Lenoir or plantar heel spur is a bony deformity of the heel. It is the consequence of too much tension in the soft tissues (tendons and fascia) to their point of attachment on the heel. Although it can be painful during his formation, heel spur is a radiologic manifestation, which is not always symptomatic. In practical terms, 50% of the population that has heel pain have a heel spur plantar on the radiography.

We recognize the Morton’s neuroma by a sharp sensation of burning on the front foot (at the plantar surface of the area of the metatarsal heads) that may radiate to the toes or to the legs. This nerve irritation can sometimes give the impression of walking on a pebble, to have a fold down misplaced, a tingling sensation or numbness in the toes.

Several factors can trigger the onset of Morton’s neuroma as the practice of some sports, standing, flat feet and inadequate shoes, and more.

A consultation is necessary for the appearance of these symptoms to confirm the diagnosis. Although some clinical tests allow identification, diagnostic ultrasound can reveal its presence and quantify its evolution.

Without treatment or care, the symptoms will become ever causing intense and debilitating pain.

Hallux valgus, commonly known as bunions is a progressive deformation creating an osseous deviation of the 1st metatarsus towards the outside entailing a deviation inward of the big toe (Hallux). In time, a deposit of calcium can accentuate the size of the bunion. Sometimes hereditary, they are however more present for women due to the wearing of shoes too narrow and/or improperly adjusted. Other factors can also be at the origin of this osseous deviation.

At first asymptomatic, the Hallux-valgus (bunion) will evolve and can cause some pain at the level of the 1st metatarsal, but also at the base of the 2nd toe. The pressure exercised by the big toe (Hallux) on the 2nd toe, can precipitate the formation of a hammer toe on the 2nd toe. It is thus important to consult quickly to prevent the increase of the bunion which, in certain case, can lead to a surgical operation to correct in a definitive way the osseous deviation.

The hammer toe is normally a sign of a bad posture, inappropriate shoes, of pes cavus to mention only a few.  To avoid some invalidating consequences like a sharp pain, difficulty to wear shoes, appearance of corns and calluses, a consultation is strongly recommended.

During your consultation, a personalized approach to your specific needs will be proposed to avoid these problems in the future.