Ankylosing Spondylitis

  Staff        January 11, 2013

There are many causes of pain in the low back and one of the least common is a condition called ankylosing spondylitis. This is a type of arthritis the primarily affects the spine, but does eventually affect most of the joints in the body. It can take many years to get a diagnosis as it often just starts as a mild ache in the low back. Most people to get some back pain from tome to time so diagnosing this condition is difficult. For podiatrists, the condition can affect the joints in the foot and they can become painful. Also occurring in ankylosing sponditis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia at the heel the causes pain on the bottom of the foot. This type of plantar fasciitis is resistant to treatment with the usual methods that are used to treat it. The only really effective treatment for this heel pain is the more powerful drugs that are used to treat the arthritis. The insertion of the Achilles tendon into the heel can also be affected as well.

Achilles Tendon Rupture

  Staff        January 4, 2013

A rupture of the Achilles tendon occurs in those who are at rick for it and simultaneously dorsiflex the foot and extend the knee. As the calf muscles and Achilles tendon cross both these joints, both these motions happening at the same time put a great load on the Achilles and if its is at risk, there is a high possibility that it might rupture.

When a rupture occurs, it is usually pretty obvious. There is usually an audible ‘snap’ and it is difficult to raise up on to the ball of the foot. It is also going to hurt! There will usually also be some swelling.

There is a lot of difference of opinion on to how the rupture should be treated. Some argue for a surgical repair and others argue for a more conservative casting. All the research on the difference in the outcomes between the two show they both tend to have equally successful outcomes.