The Arthritis Solution

13/09/2023

25/07/2023

THE FOOT, KNEE AND HIP CONSTITUTE A KINETIC CHAIN
A study by researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and Harvard Medical School suggests new guidelines may be in order for evaluating and treating lower extremity pain. Investigators set out to determine if there was a relation between foot pain and lower extremity joint pain, and they found a significant association between foot pain and knee or hip pain.
The study shows that a physician evaluating a patient for foot pain should also ask about possible hip or knee pain, and vice versa, so we can address all of a patient's issues. In medicine, many times it comes down to 'what does your MRI look like or what does your x-ray look like?' But it's really important to conduct a thorough medical history and physical exam. A comprehensive orthopedic evaluation may prompt a broader treatment strategy and possibly a referral to another specialist.
Studying the interaction between the knee and the foot, or the hip and the foot is very important because it's a kinetic chain.
The kinetic chain, the notion that the body's joints and segments have an effect on one another during movement, can play a key role in pain. The foot is the first part of the body that makes contact with the ground. Its primary function is a shock absorber. If the shock-absorbing capability of the foot is somehow altered or minimized, it's going to affect other body parts.
The foot is also the foundation of the body. If the foundation is not sound, it could have a deleterious effect on the joints above the foot and ankle, namely the knee and the hip.
Researchers found that foot pain was associated with bilateral and same-side knee pain in men and women. For example, men with right foot pain compared to those with no foot pain were five to seven times more likely to have pain in their right knee or in both knees.
Foot pain was also associated with hip pain on the same side in men. In women, bilateral foot pain was associated with hip pain on both sides, on the same side or on the opposite side.
A theory that may explain study results looks at how an individual modifies his movements and postures when experiencing pain. This can result in malalignment and other problems, and the challenge for physicians is to develop a treatment plan to address all issues. The correlated and compensatory posture and movement theory may explain how multi-joint arthritis develops, as well as other abnormalities and associated pains that can result from overuse or trauma to one or more structures in the kinetic chain.

25/07/2023

Hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, is a deformity of the big toe joint where the toe turns outward towards the other toes.
This causes a bony protrusion to form on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.
The exact cause of hallux valgus is not clear, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic factors, certain foot types, and poorly fitting shoes.
It is more common in women and can be worsened by wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes.
Symptoms of hallux valgus can include pain, swelling, and redness around the affected joint, difficulty walking or wearing shoes, and the development of corns or calluses on the affected area.
Treatment for hallux valgus depends on the severity of the condition and the level of pain and discomfort experienced by the patient.
Conservative measures such as wearing wider shoes or using orthotic devices may help alleviate symptoms, while surgery may be required for more severe cases.
Physiotherapy can play a role in the treatment of hallux valgus, particularly in cases where conservative measures are being used to manage symptoms.
A physiotherapist may recommend exercises and stretches to help improve the flexibility and strength of the muscles and joints in the foot and ankle.
This can help to alleviate pain and discomfort, as well as improve balance and coordination.

25/07/2023

Impingement syndrome is a common condition that affects the shoulder joint, often caused by repetitive overhead activities or abnormal shoulder mechanics that compress or pinch the tendons or bursa in the shoulder.
Symptoms include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.
Conservative measures, such as rest, ice or heat therapy, physical therapy, and medications, are typically the first line of treatment.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Seeking medical advice from a healthcare professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.