What are bone spurs and how do they affect the feet. How can bone spurs be diagnosed and treated effectively. What preventive measures can be taken to avoid developing bone spurs in the feet.

Understanding Bone Spurs: What Are They and How Do They Form?

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony growths that typically develop where bones meet other bones. These smooth protrusions usually measure less than a centimeter in length and form gradually over many years. While bone spurs can occur anywhere in the body, they are commonly found in the feet, particularly at the front of the heel or in the center area at the top of the foot.

The formation of bone spurs is often associated with the natural aging process. As we grow older, the cartilage in our joints begins to break down due to wear and tear. In response, the body attempts to repair itself by creating extra bone tissue, which can result in the formation of bone spurs. This is why age is considered the greatest risk factor for developing these bony growths.

How do bone spurs develop in the feet?

In the feet, bone spurs typically form in response to constant pressure and stress on the bones. This can be caused by various factors, including:

• Poorly fitted footwear
• Excessive weight-bearing activities
• Arthritis
• Injuries to the foot
• Conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet

The body’s response to these stressors is to grow additional calcium deposits on the affected bone, resulting in the formation of a bone spur.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Bone Spurs in Feet

Interestingly, bone spurs themselves are often painless, which is why many people are unaware they have them. Pain typically occurs when the spur comes into contact with surrounding tissues, particularly nerves. When symptoms do manifest, they can include:

• Localized pain in the affected area
• Redness, swelling, and warmth around the bone spur
• Stiffness or limited joint mobility
• Difficulty standing or performing weight-bearing activities

In the case of heel spurs, patients may experience pain similar to that of plantar fasciitis when the spur comes into contact with the plantar fascia. In fact, it’s not uncommon for podiatrists to discover a bone spur while diagnosing plantar fasciitis, with approximately half of plantar fasciitis patients developing heel spurs.

Can bone spurs in the feet be asymptomatic?

Yes, bone spurs can be asymptomatic, meaning they cause no noticeable symptoms. In many cases, individuals may have bone spurs without realizing it until they are discovered during imaging tests for other foot-related issues. However, even asymptomatic bone spurs have the potential to cause problems in the future if they grow larger or begin to irritate surrounding tissues.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Bone Spurs

While age is the primary risk factor for developing bone spurs, several other factors can contribute to their formation:

1. Excess body weight: This puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, including those in the feet.
2. Ill-fitting shoes: Footwear that is too tight or doesn’t provide proper support can lead to bone spurs.
3. High-impact activities: Regular participation in activities that put significant stress on the feet can increase the risk of bone spur formation.
4. Osteoarthritis: This chronic condition causes joint degeneration, which can lead to bone spur development.
5. Plantar fasciitis: Individuals with this condition are at higher risk of developing heel spurs.
6. Flat feet: This foot structure can alter the distribution of weight and stress on the feet, potentially leading to bone spur formation.

Is there a genetic component to bone spur development?

While genetics may play a role in an individual’s susceptibility to developing bone spurs, research in this area is limited. Some studies suggest that certain genetic factors may influence bone metabolism and the body’s response to joint stress, which could potentially impact bone spur formation. However, environmental and lifestyle factors are generally considered more significant contributors to the development of bone spurs in the feet.

Diagnosing Bone Spurs: What to Expect

If you suspect you may have a bone spur in your foot, it’s important to seek professional medical advice. The diagnostic process typically involves the following steps:

1. Physical examination: A podiatrist will examine your foot, looking for signs of swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion.
2. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous foot injuries or conditions.
3. Imaging tests: X-rays are commonly used to visualize bone spurs. In some cases, an MRI or CT scan may be ordered for a more detailed view.

It’s worth noting that bone spurs are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other foot-related issues. This is because many bone spurs are asymptomatic and may not be causing any noticeable problems at the time of diagnosis.

How accurate are imaging tests in diagnosing bone spurs?

Imaging tests, particularly X-rays, are highly effective in detecting bone spurs. X-rays can clearly show the bony protrusions characteristic of bone spurs. MRI and CT scans offer even greater detail and can help identify any soft tissue involvement or inflammation associated with the bone spur. However, it’s important to remember that the presence of a bone spur on an imaging test doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the cause of a patient’s pain or discomfort. Your doctor will consider the imaging results alongside your symptoms and physical examination findings to make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Bone Spurs in the Feet

The treatment approach for bone spurs in the feet has evolved over time. Today, surgery is rarely the first-line treatment option. Instead, podiatrists typically recommend conservative treatment methods, which may include:

• Cold compresses and ice packs after weight-bearing activities
• Orthotic inserts for arch support (especially for heel spurs)
• Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• Over-the-counter pain medications
• Physical therapy, including stretching exercises
• Rest and activity modification
• Use of a walking boot to relieve pressure on the affected foot

In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when severe pain and mobility limitations persist, surgical removal of the bone spur may be considered. However, this is typically viewed as a last resort after other treatment options have been exhausted.

Are there any natural remedies for managing bone spur pain?

While natural remedies should not replace professional medical advice, some individuals find relief from bone spur pain through the following methods:

• Epsom salt soaks: This can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Massage: Gentle massage of the affected area may help alleviate pain and improve circulation.
• Herbal supplements: Some people report benefits from supplements like turmeric or ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help manage pain for some individuals.

It’s crucial to remember that while these natural remedies may provide symptomatic relief, they do not address the underlying bone spur itself. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Preventing Bone Spurs: Lifestyle Changes and Precautions

While it may not be possible to completely prevent bone spurs, especially as we age, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Maintain a healthy weight: This reduces the pressure and strain on your feet and other weight-bearing joints.
2. Wear appropriate footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide excellent support for your foot type and activity level.
3. Practice good foot hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent infections that could lead to inflammation and bone spur formation.
4. Stretch regularly: Incorporate foot and ankle stretches into your daily routine to maintain flexibility and reduce stress on your feet.
5. Use proper technique during physical activities: Ensure you’re using correct form during exercises to minimize unnecessary stress on your feet.
6. Address underlying conditions: Manage conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet that may increase your risk of developing bone spurs.

How important is footwear in preventing bone spurs?

Proper footwear plays a crucial role in preventing bone spurs, particularly in the feet. Shoes that fit well and provide adequate support help distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing stress on specific areas. This can help prevent the excessive pressure and friction that often lead to bone spur formation. When choosing shoes, consider the following factors:

• Proper fit: Ensure there’s enough room in the toe box and that the heel doesn’t slip.
• Arch support: Choose shoes that match your arch type (high, normal, or low).
• Cushioning: Look for shoes with adequate shock absorption, especially if you engage in high-impact activities.
• Activity-specific design: Use shoes designed for your specific activities (e.g., running shoes for jogging, hiking boots for trails).

Remember to replace your shoes regularly, as worn-out footwear can lose its supportive properties and contribute to foot problems.

Living with Bone Spurs: Management and Quality of Life

For many individuals, living with bone spurs in the feet becomes a matter of effective management rather than complete elimination. Here are some strategies to help maintain a good quality of life:

1. Follow your treatment plan: Adhere to the recommendations provided by your healthcare provider, whether it involves medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
2. Practice self-care: Incorporate regular foot care into your routine, including massage, stretching, and proper hygiene.
3. Modify activities: If certain activities exacerbate your symptoms, consider alternatives that put less stress on your feet.
4. Use supportive devices: Orthotics, cushioned insoles, or supportive footwear can help alleviate pressure and reduce pain.
5. Stay active: While it’s important to avoid activities that cause pain, maintaining an appropriate level of physical activity can help keep your joints flexible and strong.
6. Manage weight: If you’re overweight, losing excess pounds can significantly reduce stress on your feet and alleviate symptoms.
7. Seek support: Connect with others who have similar conditions through support groups or online communities to share experiences and coping strategies.

Can bone spurs in the feet impact overall mobility and quality of life?

Bone spurs in the feet can indeed have a significant impact on an individual’s mobility and overall quality of life. The pain and discomfort associated with bone spurs can make it challenging to perform everyday activities such as walking, standing for extended periods, or participating in physical exercise. This can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, which may have further negative impacts on overall health and well-being.

Moreover, chronic foot pain can affect mental health, potentially leading to stress, anxiety, or depression. It’s crucial for individuals living with bone spurs to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive management plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with this condition.

By implementing effective pain management strategies, making appropriate lifestyle modifications, and maintaining a positive outlook, many people with bone spurs in their feet can continue to lead active, fulfilling lives. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist can help ensure that the condition is well-managed and that any changes in symptoms are addressed promptly.

Bone Spur Treatment, Symptoms, and Prevention

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Bone SpursDr. Mikkel Jarman2023-03-02T13:47:48-07:00

Also known as osteophytes, bone spurs may occur anywhere on the body, including the feet.

Preferred Foot & Ankle Specialists

Bone spurs are bony growths that typically develop where bone meets bone. The growth is smooth and usually measures less than a centimeter in length. It takes years for a bone spur to form, one reason that age is the greatest risk factor.

Although bone spurs may form anywhere, they’re most often found in the feet, hips, shoulder, knees, and spine. When they occur in the foot, they typically form at the front of the heel or in the center area at the top of the foot.

What Are the Symptoms of Bone Spurs?

The bone spur itself is painless, which is why people often don’t realize they have one. When the patient does experience pain, it is because the spur touches other tissue, particularly nerves.

In addition to pain, patients who have a foot or heel spur may experience:

• Redness, swelling, and/or warmth at the affected area
• Stiffness or other limitations that affect joint mobility
• Difficulty standing or performing weight-bearing activities

Heel spurs often come into contact with the plantar fascia, which causes pain similar to that of plantar fasciitis. It is not uncommon for a podiatrist to discover a bone spur when diagnosing plantar fasciitis. In fact, around half of plantar fasciitis patients develop heel spurs.

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What Causes Bone Spurs?

Age is the greatest risk factor for bone spurs, whether on the heel or at the top of the foot. This is due in part to wear and tear that occurs over time, causing cartilage to break down. When that happens, your body creates extra bone in an attempt to repair itself, which may lead to bone spurs.

You’re also more likely to develop osteoarthritis as you age. This chronic condition causes the bone and joint degeneration that lead to the body creating excess bone – and the bone spur.

In addition to age, common bone spur causes include:

• Excess weight
• Shoes that are too tight
• Shoes that don’t provide proper support
• Regular weight-bearing activity that puts a lot of stress on your feet

Your risk is also greater if you have plantar fasciitis or flat feet.

Can Bone Spurs be Treated?

These days, treating bone spurs with surgery is rare. Instead, podiatrists rely on conservative treatment options. These may include:

• Cold compresses and ice packs after performing weight-bearing activities
• Orthotic inserts that offer arch support (specifically for treating heel spurs)
• Cortisone injections to help ease inflammation, stiffness, and pain
• Over-the-counter pain medications
• Physical therapy that includes stretching exercises, particularly before bed
• Resting the foot, particularly after performing weight-bearing activities
• A walking boot to help relieve pressure on the affected foot

If you experience severe pain and/or mobility limitations, you may be a candidate for surgery to remove the bone spur. However, your podiatrist should attempt conservative treatment options first.

Can You Prevent Bone Spurs?

Much depends on how early you begin practicing healthier lifestyle habits. That’s because one of the best things you can do to protect your feet from heel spurs is maintaining a healthy weight. This reduces the pressure and strain placed on your body.

It also helps to wear shoes that fit well and provide excellent support. Our article, Choosing the Right Shoe for Your Activity, is a good starting point.

Diagnosing Bone Spurs

After performing the physical exam, Dr. Jarman orders diagnostic tests of your feet. Typically, this means an x-ray, but it could also be an MRI or CT scan. If tests reveal bone spurs, the doctor begins treatment.

If you have recurrent heel or foot pain, call Preferred Foot & Ankle today at 480-497-3946.

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Bone Spurs in the Feet

When your foot is injured, the rest of your body suffers. Not only do the feet provide balance and mobility, they also serve as shock absorbers for the rest of your body. So if you are diagnosed with a bone spur in the feet, expect your feet to be anything but happy.

Pressure on the Foot

Bone spurs in the feet can form as a result of constant friction — the type that puts pressure and stress on the bones in the foot, eventually causing damage. The body responds to the damage by growing calcium on the affected bone. Bone spurs that develop on the toes are called toe spurs; those that develop of the heel are called heel spurs. A bone spur that develops midfoot is a tarsal boss. Prominent bone spur may form in response to arthritis, while some develop bone spurs in their feet due to poorly fitted footwear. Some bone spurs are accompanied by pain, while others are asymptomatic. The most common symptoms that accompany bone spurs in the foot are pain and loss of motion.

Risk Factors

Development of bone spurs may be the result of illness, overuse, bad shoes, or body conditions. For example, those with high or low arches, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and chronic inflammation are more prone to developing bone spurs than those who do not have these conditions. Bone spurs are more common in those who overweight, and the elderly are more likely to develop bone spurs than youth. Shoes are another contributing factor – those who wear shoes that constrict or rub are at a greater risk of developing bone spurs; the same is true of athletes and workman – like runners, ballet dancers and construction workers – who put enormous strain and stress on their feet.

Characteristics of Bone Spurs in the Feet

As mentioned, some people experience painful bone spurs that sideline them from the activities they love, while others go for years not even knowing they have developed bone spurs. As a rule, when bone spurs present, one can expect redness and swelling. Calluses may start to form and pain or achiness may ensue at the spur or any other part of the foot. Stiffness may substitute for mobility, which may become more painful and limited as the spur expands or exacerbates with time.

Diagnosing and Treating Bone Spurs in the Feet

An accurate diagnosis of bone spurs in the feet requires an X-ray. The results of the X-ray can reveal the presence of bone spurs, and from there, your doctor can recommend treatment. To start, your doctor most likely will recommend conservative care, such as anti-inflammatory medications, rest, over-the-counter pain medication, ice, cortisone injections, and rehabilitation to restore strength and flexibility. Your doctor might also recommend assistive devices such as orthopaedic padding and a walking boot. In severe cases where the bone spur is causing nerve compression on the spine, a laminectomy is recommended.

South Texas Orthopaedic Experts

The doctors at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine offer high-quality orthopedic care to their patients in South Texas. By employing the latest orthopaedic techniques to manage the symptoms of bone spurs and any other orthopaedic condition, our goal is to return you to your pain-free, active lifestyle. If you have specific questions or concerns about our treatment, surgical or rehabilitation programs, call us at (210) 692-7400 or request an appointment online now.

Fracture of the foot – first aid, treatment in Moscow

Fractures of the bones of the foot are diagnosed in 10% of patients with injuries of the lower extremities. Damage to bone structures occurs when the foot is twisted, jumped, dropped, hit. If symptoms of a fracture appear, it is urgent to contact a traumatologist in order to avoid the development of complications.

Why do the bones in the foot break?

A fracture occurs when a force is applied to the bone that exceeds the elasticity of the bone structures. These may be traumatic or pathological factors.

Causes of traumatic fractures of the foot:

• vertical fall from a height, with increased fragility of the bone tissue, a fracture can occur even after jumping from a low chair;
• traffic accidents;
• excessive or abrupt rotation, dorsiflexion of the foot;
• heavy objects falling on the leg;
• foot tuck;
• blow, severe bruise.

What are pathological fractures?

Pathological fractures – a consequence of increased fragility of bone tissue. Most often, the problem occurs against the background of a violation of the metabolic processes of mineral substances due to hormonal or age-related changes.

The main pathologies that can cause a fracture of the foot:

• osteoporosis – a violation of the formation of bone tissue, the accumulation of calcium salts leads to a decrease in the strength and elasticity of bones;
• osteomyelitis – an infectious pathology in which the inflammatory process negatively affects the nutrition of the bones, which leads to their weakening;
• neoplasms in the bone marrow, bone tissue;
• genetic pathologies that are accompanied by a violation of the process of building and mineralization of bones;
• beriberi.

Certain drugs also negatively affect bone strength – hormonal agents, anticoagulants, drugs for the treatment of convulsive syndrome and oncological pathologies, lithium-based drugs, tetracycline antibiotics.

What are stress and neuropathic fractures

Injuries occur when the bones of the foot are exposed to traumatic factors of low intensity for a long time. Stress fractures of the foot are often found in dancers, professional athletes, and military recruits often have marching stress fractures.

A stress fracture can be caused by flat feet, rheumatoid arthritis, and other diseases that affect bone structures.

Neuropathic fracture of the predominantly fifth metatarsal often occurs in people with severe diabetes mellitus. Against the background of polyneuropathy, the sensitivity of the legs is disturbed, the person does not feel the blow, does not control the force of the impact.

General and specific manifestations of damage to the bones of the foot

Fracture of the bones of the foot is accompanied by sharp pain, which gradually becomes aching. The pain syndrome is caused by damage to the periosteum, which contains many nerve endings and pain receptors. The affected area swells, hematomas appear, the skin becomes cyanotic and hot, joint mobility is impaired. The crunch of bone fragments is rarely observed, since the bones of the foot are rigidly fixed by elastic structures.

Symptoms of a calcaneus fracture

When the calcaneus is fractured, the pain is severe or moderate. The heel area swells, reddens, sensitivity in the damaged area increases. Bruises, abrasions often appear around the heel, which can reach the arch of the foot. With massive swelling, blisters form 36–48 hours after the injury.

If the fracture is open, the wounds are located on the medial side. If the neurovascular bundle is damaged, severe bleeding is observed. Sometimes, due to circulatory disorders, ischemia develops, which can cause the death of the limb. If the nerve endings are damaged, the sensitivity in the heel area is reduced.

Signs of a fracture of the talus

When the talus is injured, sudden sharp pain occurs, which is more intense when the upper part of the foot is palpated. The foot and the ankle joint swell, bruises form on the inner surface of the ankle. With any movement of the ankle, the pain syndrome increases.

There is crepitus, increased sensitivity in the damaged area.

Manifestations of midfoot and forefoot fractures

The main symptom is severe pain in the forefoot that worsens with pressure. The edema may be slight or extensive with severe deformity. Often formed hematomas, abrasions.

How to recognize a stress fracture?

Signs of a stress fracture of the foot include dull, aching pain that covers the entire foot. At the initial stage, discomfort worries only during walking and physical exertion. But gradually unpleasant sensations arise even at rest. Puffiness, redness, deformation are weakly expressed.

Classification of fractures

There are different parameters for classifying fractures of the lower extremities.

When a crack is detected, an incomplete fracture is diagnosed. If the bone is completely or partially destroyed – complete. If there are wounds in the damaged area – this is an open fracture, if the integrity of the skin is not broken – closed.

Classification depending on the location of the fracture line:

• transverse – the fracture is across the bone;
• oblique – the bone breaks at an angle;
• longitudinal – the fracture line is located along the bone;
• helical – the fracture runs in a spiral;
• polyfocal – two or more large fragments are visible on the x-ray;
• comminuted – an injury in which several fragments of bone are formed;
• fragmented – diagnosed when a large number of fragments are detected;
• compression – a consequence of squeezing the bone, accompanied by deformation, flattening of the damaged bone structure;
• impacted – wedging of fragments into each other;
• detachable – a fragment is separated from the bone, most often this occurs at the points of attachment of the ligaments.

Foot fractures are intra-articular, in which, in addition to bones, cartilage, ligamentous apparatus and capsules are damaged. Often such a fracture is accompanied by other injuries of the limbs. Periarticular fractures are localized between the diaphysis and the end of the joint, often impacted. A diaphyseal is a fracture in the middle part of the bone, mainly with a displacement.

Classification of leg fractures by levels

There are three levels in the lower limb, each of which can cause damage to various bone structures.

Fracture of the femur

The group of femoral injuries includes:

• fracture of the head and neck of the femur C is most often intraarticular, occurs in elderly people with osteoporosis, often such an injury leads to disability;
• pertrochanteric and intertrochanteric fractures – intra-articular;
• diaphyseal fractures – accompanied by a strong displacement of fragments, sharp pain, swelling, the injured limb is shortened;
• hip condyle fracture – intra-articular, often diagnosed in elderly people after a blow or fall on the knee.

These are severe injuries that are accompanied by severe pain and profuse blood loss.

Fracture of the lower leg

The group of injuries to the bones of the lower leg includes:

• fractures of the condyles of the tibia – intra-articular, one or both condyles may be affected, there is swelling, hemarthrosis in the knee joint;
• diaphyseal – fractures of both bones of the lower leg, damage to the fibula and tibia, often accompanied by displacement, there is a crunch and pathological mobility of the injured limb;
• ankle fracture – may be accompanied by subluxation, ligament rupture, displacement.

Fracture of the bones of the foot

Injuries to the bones of the foot include:

1. Fractures of the tarsal bones – damage to the talus, navicular, sphenoid and cuboid bones.
2. Metatarsal fractures are the most common foot injury.
3. Finger fractures.

How to provide first aid in case of fracture of the bones of the foot

In case of fracture of the bones of the foot, it is important to provide first aid correctly and in a timely manner:

1. Call an ambulance.
2. Place the injured limb on a slight hill to avoid severe swelling. If the pain increases in an elevated position, the leg should be laid in a comfortable position.
3. Apply cold to the foot.
4. Treat wounds with an antiseptic, apply a sterile dressing.
5. Fix the limb with boards, plywood. The joint must be fixed above and below the fracture site. If pain worsens after applying a fixing bandage, the splint should be removed.
6. Take pain medication, no more than two doses.

Diagnostic methods

In case of a foot injury, it is necessary to consult a traumatologist. After examining the injured limb, taking an anamnesis and analyzing complaints, the doctor will prescribe the necessary studies to identify the location and type of fracture.

The main diagnostic method is X-ray. The picture is taken in the anteroposterior, lateral, oblique, Broden and projection, which is oriented along the canal of the talus.

X-rays are not always informative enough. A stress fracture of the foot at the initial stage is practically not visualized. Damage to the ligaments and soft tissues are not visible in the picture.

Auxiliary diagnostic methods:

1. CT scan – allows you to see even minor defects in bone structures. It is prescribed if x-rays are not informative enough, with signs of additional pathological processes in the bones, with suspicion of a stress fracture.
2. MRI – allows you to see any changes in soft tissues, nerve endings, blood vessels, ligaments. This is one of the best ways to identify a stress fracture
3. Ultrasound is one of the safest diagnostic methods. But it does not reflect the state of bone structures. Ultrasound can detect only indirect signs of a fracture, inflammation, foci of accumulation of blood or other fluid in the joint cavity.

Methods of treatment

The choice of methods of treatment depends on the type, severity and duration of the injury:

1. If a fracture is not displaced, a cast is immediately applied.
2. In case of a displaced fracture of the foot, open or closed reposition of fragments is performed under local anesthesia. Then a plaster cast is applied.
3. Skeletal traction. Assign for old injuries, when closed reposition is ineffective.
4. Osteosynthesis is a surgical method of bone fusion in severe comminuted fractures.
5. The Ilizarov apparatus is used for comminuted fractures.

Recovery period

Rehabilitologists use the following methods to restore the functions and anatomy of an injured limb:

1. Introducing various drugs into biologically active points of the feet using needles.
2. Therapeutic massage. Helps restore blood flow, reduce pain.
3. Physiotherapy.
4. Wearing an arch support for at least a year after the injury.
5. Therapeutic exercise. The specialist selects a set of exercises that will help you quickly return to a normal lifestyle, avoid lameness.
6. Application of teips. Muscles and ligaments are fixed with special tapes.
7. Pilates, yoga – exercises will help to relax, improve the elasticity of the ligaments and the mobility of the joints.
8. Diet therapy. Products are prescribed to accelerate the process of bone tissue repair.

Why are foot fractures dangerous?

In case of complicated fractures, the lack of proper treatment, there is a high probability of developing arthrosis, dysfunctions of the foot.

Any fracture requires immediate medical attention. The visit should not be postponed, because the callus begins to form very quickly. Specialists of the clinic “Miracle Doctor” in Moscow will conduct all the necessary research and select the best methods of therapy and rehabilitation for various foot fractures. Call us or use the form on the website to schedule an appointment with a traumatologist.

Q&A

Is it necessary to apply a cast in case of a fracture of the bones of the foot?

The imposition of a fixing plaster cast in case of a bone fracture is mandatory. Gypsum prevents the injured limb from moving, helps to reduce the load on the foot, and helps to fix the bones in the correct anatomical position. Gypsum is applied to the entire foot with the capture of the lower third of the lower leg. On average, it will have to be worn for 6-10 weeks, subject to the identification of complications.

When is surgery required for a broken foot?

Surgical intervention is necessary for severe displacement of bone fragments, with a large number of bone fragments. Surgery is resorted to if conservative methods are ineffective. The operation is performed under local or general anesthesia. Fragments are fixed with knitting needles, plates, screws.

What physiotherapy will help you recover faster after a fracture?

Physiotherapy is an important part of the rehabilitation period after fractures. They are prescribed already 2-5 days after the injury. In the first 10 days, procedures are carried out to eliminate pain, swelling, and muscle spasm. These are UHF, magnetotherapy, treatment with interference currents, ultraviolet irradiation, electrophoresis with anesthetics. Then procedures are prescribed that accelerate the process of formation of connective tissue and primary bone callus, help to avoid joint and muscle dysfunction. These are UHF, ultraviolet irradiation and current treatment, electrophoresis with calcium preparations. To consolidate the therapeutic effect, it is necessary to undergo physiotherapy once every six months.

Slowly consolidating fractures – symptoms of trauma, first aid and treatment, rehabilitation – Department of Traumatology NCC No. 2 (CCH RAS)

Fracture is a painful condition in which there is a violation of the integrity of the bone resulting from an injury under the influence of a damaging factor that is stronger than the strength of the bone tissue. Fractures are of two types: open and closed, with and without displacement of bone fragments. After an injury, the bones grow together until a callus is formed. This process is called fracture consolidation . Accordingly, a consolidating fracture is a fused fracture. Distinguish between fast and slow consolidation. Rapid consolidation is the complete fusion of the bones, in which a callus is formed and blood circulation is restored. Delayed consolidation is a bone union disorder with slow callus formation. As a result, the fracture can grow together incorrectly and cause a lot of inconvenience to the patient.

The main causes of injury.

There are general and local reasons due to which the process of bone tissue repair slows down. These include:

• Severe illnesses (diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis)
• Bad habits (smoking, alcohol)
• Depletion of the body
• Old age (over 60)
• Multiple fractures
• Women’s dysmenorrhea
• Entry of infection or foreign bodies into the wound
• Serious soft tissue injuries
• Circulatory disorders

Signs of slowly consolidating fractures.

Signs of delayed callus formation include:

• Unnatural mobility of bone fragments in the area of ​​damage
• Pain in the area of ​​bone injury
• X-ray shows gap between bone fragments

Diagnostics.

You can recognize the slowdown in the process of proper fusion of bone tissues in the area of ​​the fracture:

• during a clinical examination (the doctor, by bending and pressing hard on the area of ​​injury, determines whether the pain persists, whether elasticity and springiness appear at the fracture site)
• by radiography (can only be used 16-22 days after the fracture, the fracture line will be clearly visible on the x-ray, and the callus is vaguely expressed)

List of specialists to contact:

• Traumatologist-orthopedist
• Surgeon

Treatment.

With delayed bone fusion, two treatment options are possible – conservative and surgical.

• Conservative treatment is the prolongation of the immobilization of the fracture, sufficient for its union. A nonunion fracture is treated with the introduction of drugs that stimulate the process of bone formation, it is possible to inject the patient’s blood into the gap between the fragments, and to inject strengthening and tonic injections.
• If the terms of consolidation increase by more than 1.5-2 months, then the patient is prescribed surgical treatment. In the Department of Traumatology, the patient will undergo one of the necessary operations according to indications: extrafocal compression osteosynthesis, bone grafting, tunnelization according to Beck, or surgery with a sliding graft according to Khakhutov.

Rehabilitation.

To speed up the recovery of slowly growing fractures, the following is prescribed:

• Physiotherapy (calcium iontophoresis, UHF, anabolic hormones, quartz irradiation, etc.)
• Therapeutic exercise
• Mud treatment
• Taking calcium preparations in combination with zinc, folic acid, magnesium, vitamins D, C, B.