Foot & Ankle Conditions
The foot and ankle are composed of a complex series of joints involving 26 bones and numerous ligaments, tendons and muscles. Although this complexity of structure gives the foot flexibility and remarkable function, it is also prone to dysfunction due to the weight and stress on these joints. These bones are lined by a thin, flexible surface called articular cartilage that acts as a cushion to reduce friction. The cartilage is lubricated by synovial fluid that further enables smooth movement of the bones. The bones are held in place and supported by ligaments, muscles, and tendons.
Due to poor blood supply, injuries to the collagenous tissue of the ankle or foot generally do not heal quickly or completely. This leads to a more chronic condition and tendency toward arthritic deterioration of joint cartilage.
Treatment
Osteopathic Manipulation helps to restore structural dysfunction to allow the bones to glide over each other smoothly and comfortably. Mechanical efficiency helps to prevent friction that causes inflammation and pain. Correct mechanical structure also prevents secondary stress on adjoining tissue and further complications.
Stem Cell Therapy and PRP accelerate and enhance the natural healing process, supplying healing cells when the body is in short supply. Blood flow to the affected area is increased, removing damaged tissue and supplying nourishment necessary to the healing process. Autologous cell therapy can eliminate the necessity of surgery for most musculoskeletal conditions.
Regenexx is a world-wide network of select, highly skilled physicians who are specially trained in interventional procedures for orthopedic conditions. Regenexx provides the world's most advanced, research-driven, regenerative orthopedic procedures in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia. Specializing in advanced non-surgical procedures for joint Injuries, osteoarthritis, and other orthopedic conditions, Dr. Minotti brings these procedures to you!
If you have pain in your Achilles tendon, platelet rich plasma therapy may help. It uses parts of your own blood to help your body heal itself. PRP can help your ankle feel better and work better.
To determine if Regenerative Orthopedics will be helpful for you, please tell us about your condition.
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Common conditions of the foot and ankle
Ankle sprain/strain. Ligaments are tough rope-like tissues that connect bones to other bones, holding them in place to provide stability to the joints. When stretched too far, ligaments become damaged and swelling, pain, and bruising will develop.
Achilles tendonitis/-osis. The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the major muscles of the calf to the heel. The exertion of force or repeated stress on the tendon can cause it can to become overworked and inflamed. The ankle becomes less flexible making the tendon prone to tears.
Achilles tendon rupture. This fibrous cord behind the ankle ruptures most often in athletes participating in sports that involve running, pivoting, and jumping. Pain may be severe. If the rupture of the tendon is not complete, autologous cell therapy can be an effective treatment.
Osteoarthritis. Arthritis is inflammation resulting from the degeneration of cartilage in the joint, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Movement becomes restricted. Arthritis of the foot and ankle can occur due to fracture, dislocation, inflammatory disease, or congenital deformity. When left untreated, shifting of the bones may occur.
Plantar fasciitis/ Heel spurs. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Pain common with this condition is due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that lies at the bottom of the foot to form the arch. The plantar fascia functions as a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot. Excessive pressure over the fascia may strain and tear the tissue. Repeated overstretching or overuse causes irritation or inflammation. Impact from running or other sports, along with tight calf muscles and excess weight can contribute to this condition. Orthobiologic procedures help to heal this condition more quickly and effectively without the necessity of extended rest.
Morton’s neuroma. Morton’s neuroma refers to a nerve injury between the toes, usually the third and fourth toes, which causes burning pain in the ball of the foot. Thickening of the nerve tissue generally occurs due to scar tissue. Compression or chronic irritation of this interdigital nerve is the main cause of Morton’s neuroma.
We Can Help
To learn more about what we can do to help with your condition, call our office at 817-416-0970. We will thoroughly diagnose your condition and present you with treatment options. From there we will guide you along your road to recovery.