Phil Mickelson has been treated for arthritis that surfaced just before the U.S. Open and left him in so much pain he couldn't walk. Arthritis is a problem that we treat at Atlantic Foot and Ankle Associates on a daily basis. Because the foot and ankle have 36 joints, the inflammation caused by arthritis can cause limitation, pain, swelling, and ultimately affects day-to-day life. We try to find not only the cause of the arthritis, but also give patient's solutions to get them back to their activity level, with conservative measures and straightforward treatment options.

Many causes of arthritis exist, but most commonly is day-to-day wear and tear. Arthritis is also caused by a sudden trauma or repetitive small trauma, and can be due to the shape of the foot which can cause jamming of the joints. Hereditary factors, bacterial and viral infections, and multisystem disorders can also cause a lead to arthritis. Also, arthritis in one joint can cause or worsen arthritis in another joint seen commonly in the foot with bunions, hammertoes, or even an arthritic ankle.

Arthritic conditions are initially diagnosed with symptomatology, x-ray findings, laboratory studies, and ruling out other common tendon and ligament issues in the foot. At Atlantic Foot and Ankle Associates we not only use these tests, but also our clinical experience to determine how to gear the proper treatment toward each patient. Treatments include padding and strapping of the foot, molded insoles, multiple anti-inflammatory medications both topical and oral, and in severe cases an injection. In some cases, surgical options may need to be entertained.

We Atlantic Foot and Ankle Associates are familiar with the management and treatment of arthritis of the foot and ankle. Often times, there is no permanent cure. However through palliative treatment, proper shoes and insoles, and careful working with other physicians, we can get you on your feet pain free. Don't be one of the 40 million people in America that suffers with this disease. Visit one of our four offices (Daytona Beach, Palm Coast, Port Orange, and Orange City) and let us help you with your arthritis today.

By Dr. Matthew Hentzel, DPM

“Matt Schaub — who guided the Texans to a four-game winning streak, a 11/2-game lead in the AFC South and a 7-3 record that's tied with Pittsburgh for the best in the AFC — will be lost for the season if he elects to undergo surgery to repair the injury to the Lisfranc joint in his right foot. Before making a decision on season-ending surgery, Schaub will consult foot specialists in Indianapolis and Charlotte, N.C., next week.”

John McClain, EXPRESS-NEWS STAFF

A Lisfranc injury can be in the form of a fracture, joint dislocation or ligament tear combination. The Lisfranc joint is located on the top middle of the foot straight back from the second toe. This injury is usually associated with a tremendous force loaded to the foot while the foot is in a fixed position or planted firmly. The large majority of non-athletic Lisfranc injuries occur from car accidents when the foot is violently forced into the floor board of the car or a fall from a height. These injuries mostly can be diagnosed by x-rays and clinical examination. The foot is swollen and pain elicited with near every step. The x-rays usually consist of comparison of the injured and uninjured foot. The Lisfranc injury can be a very subtle fracture or gapping necessitating an MRI to allow visualization of the bone and soft tissue in much finer detail.

Simple treatment may involve supportive wrapping, ice, elevation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and a walking boot for 2-4 weeks. More complex injuries may need anatomic realignment of the disrupted joint by means of surgery involving screws and surgical hardware. A history of a Lisfranc injury may predispose a patient to early arthritis of the Lisfranc joint necessitating the need for good supportive shoes and arch supports with most activities. Severe joint pain associated with a neglected or old Lisfranc injury may need fusion of the painful joint.

Many different approaches to Lisfranc injuries are available at Atlantic Foot and Ankle Associates in Port Orange, FL. If you feel you are suffering from a new or old Lisfranc injury, let us know and we will immediately start treatment helping you recover.

By Dr. Dennis McBroom, DPM