Category: N

Nutcracker fracture

Posted on March 16, 2023 by - Fractures, Midfoot, N

A nutcracker fracture is a type of foot fracture that occurs when the cuboid bone, located on the outer side of the foot, is crushed between the heel bone and the fourth and fifth metatarsal bones.

This type of fracture can occur as a result of a sudden injury, such as a fall or a direct blow to the foot, or from overuse or repetitive stress on the foot. Symptoms of a nutcracker fracture of the cuboid may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot.

Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam and imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment for a nutcracker fracture of the cuboid may depend on the severity of the fracture, but generally involves immobilizing the affected foot with a cast or brace and allowing time for the bone to heal. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the fractured bone and stabilize the foot. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore range of motion and strength to the affected foot.

Why are my feet numb?

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - Frequently asked questions, N, Neurology

Numbness in the feet can be caused by various reasons, including poor circulation, nerve damage, injury, infection, and certain medical conditions. Some common causes of numbness in the feet include:

  1. Peripheral neuropathy – damage to the nerves in the feet caused by diabetes or other medical conditions.
  2. Poor circulation – reduced blood flow to the feet caused by conditions such as peripheral artery disease or Raynaud’s disease.
  3. Tarsal tunnel syndrome – compression of the nerve that runs along the inside of the ankle.
  4. Morton’s neuroma – a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes.
  5. Spinal cord injury or disease – damage to the spinal cord can cause numbness or weakness in the feet.
  6. Injuries – trauma to the feet, such as a broken bone or sprain, can cause temporary numbness.
  7. Vitamin deficiencies – deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as B12, can cause numbness in the feet.

If you are experiencing persistent numbness in your feet, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Netball injuries of the foot & ankle

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - N, Sports

Netball is a high-impact sport that involves quick changes in direction, jumping, and landing, making the feet and ankles particularly susceptible to injury. Some common foot and ankle injuries that can occur during netball include:

  1. Ankle sprains: Netball players are at high risk of ankle sprains due to the constant changes in direction and jumping.
  2. Achilles tendonitis: Overuse and repetitive strain on the Achilles tendon can lead to inflammation and pain, especially in players who do not stretch adequately.
  3. Plantar fasciitis: This is a painful condition caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
  4. Metatarsal stress fractures: The repetitive impact and stress on the feet can cause tiny cracks in the bones of the feet, especially in players who train excessively.
  5. Turf toe: This is a sprain of the big toe joint that can occur when the toe is bent too far backward.
  6. Sesamoiditis: The sesamoid bones are small bones under the big toe joint, and excessive pressure or strain on these bones can lead to inflammation and pain.

To prevent these injuries, netball players should wear appropriate footwear, stretch and warm up before playing, and practice proper landing and jumping techniques. They should also ensure that they have adequate rest and recovery time between matches and training sessions.

Nerve injuries of the foot

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - N, Neurology

Nerve injuries of the foot can occur as a result of trauma, compression, or certain medical conditions. Some common nerve injuries of the foot include:

  1. Morton’s neuroma: This is a common condition where the nerve between the third and fourth toe becomes compressed and irritated, causing pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot.
  2. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: This is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve in the ankle becomes compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot.
  3. Peripheral neuropathy: This is a condition where the nerves in the feet become damaged, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling.
  4. Plantar fasciitis: Although not strictly a nerve injury, plantar fasciitis can cause nerve compression and pain in the heel and sole of the foot.
  5. Trauma: Injuries such as fractures, dislocations, and sprains can damage the nerves in the foot, causing pain, numbness, and other symptoms.

Treatment for nerve injuries of the foot depends on the cause and severity of the injury. Conservative treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy may be sufficient in mild cases. More severe cases may require medication, injections, or surgery to relieve pain and restore function.

Necrotising fasciitis of the foot

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - Infections, N

Necrotising fasciitis of the foot, also known as flesh-eating disease, is a rare but serious bacterial infection that affects the soft tissue beneath the skin, including the fascia and muscle. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Necrotising fasciitis of the foot can occur after an injury or a surgical procedure on the foot, but in some cases, it can occur spontaneously without any apparent cause. The bacteria responsible for the infection are usually Streptococcus or Staphylococcus, which can enter the body through a cut or wound on the foot.

Symptoms of necrotising fasciitis of the foot include:

  • Pain and swelling in the affected area
  • Redness or discolouration of the skin
  • Blisters or skin lesions that rapidly spread
  • Fever and chills
  • Nausea and vomiting

If you suspect you have necrotising fasciitis of the foot, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the infected tissue, along with intravenous antibiotics and supportive care. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary to prevent the spread of the infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for a successful outcome.