Health & Medicine
2007-01-01 14:58:00
What is wrong with my ankles?
I have noticed that my ankles are turning in toward each other. Why is this and what can I do about it?
ANSWER: A 180-pound person has about 810 pounds of force going through each foot with every step taken. The average person takes 15,000 steps a day. When the talus abnormally deviates (medially, and/or anteriorly, and/or plantarflexes) these forces are transmitted abnormally throughout the foot and eventually pathology ensures. This is what leads to plantar fasciitis/heel spur syndrome, bunions/first ray deformities, tarsal tunnel disorders, lowering of the arch, etc. In addition, the abnormal motion of the talus also leads to excessive motion proximally, leading to knee, hip, and back problems as well.
Currently, the treatment of hyperpronation is arch supports or orthotics. Hyperpronation is caused by obliteration of the sinus tarsi, a normal occurring space formed by the talus and calcaneus. This is an internal problem and therefore external measures are ineffective in preventing the obliteration of this space. Orthotics and arch supports will give some relief, but the underlying problem still exists. Inserts are only effective when worn, are difficult to fit into more than one pair of shoes. Imagine if you have a cancer and are only receiving 20% of radiation/chemotherapy to destroy the cancer. Inevitably the cancer will continue to spread. The same thing is occurring in the feet. Patients are given orthotics that can only control a small amount of the problem; coincidently more damage is occurring to the feet, knees, hips, and back with every step.
Historically, when orthotics were ineffective, the only other option was rearfoot reconstructive surgery. This modality, however, is usually just too aggressive to address this deformity. Typically, there is four to six weeks of non to partial weightbearing, many complications, extensive recovery (four to eight months), and the results are questionable. This type of procedure is irreversible. Most patients would rather suffer with their current condition than undergo the extensive surgery. Meanwhile, with every step taken further damage is occurring to the feet, knees, hips, and back.
The HyProCure is completely different from all of the other stents and implants currently on the market and is tolerated by individuals older than three years of age. It is a fast, reproducible procedure with a quick recovery. Patients are back into regular shoes within a week following placement of the stent. It is a completely reversible procedure and functions all the time, unlike orthotics (have to wear shoes). Most insurance companies cover this procedure. Central Kansas Podiatry Associates is the only podiatry group in the area that is performing this procedure. Call for more information or to schedule your appointment (316) 269-3338.
