A good diagnosis for foot and ankle problems

During a normal day, the average person will take thousands of steps.  Foot and ankle problems can cause pain with each of these steps, or just during athletic activities and exercise. These limitations can have a dramatic effect on a person's quality of life.

The causes are varied, ranging from degenerative conditions such as arthritis, to acquired or congenital deformities, to fractures and overuse injuries.  Evaluation starts with a thorough history and physical examination followed by appropriate imaging studies, such as digital XRays and possibly an MRI.

These modern diagnostic techniques help us better understand the problems. As well, the technological advances help find subtle anatomic abnormalities that in the past may never have been recognized.

Treatments are as diverse as the causes. Both surgeries and other non-operative treatments have improved dramatically in the last 15 years, making them safer, more effective and even more predictable.

Bracing, shoe modifications and inserts, physical therapy, and possibly surgery may be used in the treatment plan. Most importantly though is education. By involving the patient in the decision-making process to determine the course appropriate for his/her life, the medical specialist link the quality of life expectations with the physical function.

Without a healthy, pain-free foot even low levels of activity can become overwhelmingly difficult.

Dr. Crary and his partner, Dr. Woll, are the foot and ankle specialists at Rebound  Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Both have extensive experience in treating all facets of foot and ankle problems at Southwest Washington Medical Center.