Bony Bridges

As you can imagine, human feet are incredibly complex and impressive structures. Just think of all the functions that your feet perform every day! Each human foot contains roughly 26 bones and 33 joints. That actually accounts for about a quarter of all the bones in the body! The coordinated movements that we often take for granted require efficient and effective motion between each of those bones and joints. Occasionally, however, some of the bones can develop unions or connections with other bones which can have a big impact on the function and comfort of your feet.
In most circumstances, the connections which reduce or stop motion between bones show up in the middle or hind part of the foot below the ankle. These unions are often bony themselves, but can also be made up of cartilage or fibrous tissue as well. They’re certainly nothing new. Doctors back in the 1700’s first began to describe this condition, and a pre-Colombian Indian skeleton from around 1000 AD even had one!
Unions between bones in the foot may be acquired over time or congenital- showing up in fetuses as early as the first trimester. Some acquired causes may include trauma, arthritis, or even tumors. Either way, they can present in a variety of ways. Patients may experience pain, muscle spasms, decreased motion, or no symptoms at all. Pain is usually localized to the outside top of the foot or the entire rear-foot, and often comes on after activity. Walking over rough surfaces is especially painful. Individuals-especially children-who develop a stiff flatfoot on one side but not the other have a very high chance of having a bony connection in that foot.
Podiatrists perform a number of simple clinical exams as well as radiographic techniques to quickly assess whether an individual has a bony union or not. They’re able to localize the issue and determine the extent of the problem, and of any arthritic changes. After that, a number of conservative measures may be implemented to address the problem. If these measures fail, surgery may be recommended to address the needs of that specific foot.
Physical activity is a critical part of everyone’s healthy lifestyle, and walking should not be painful. If your feet become rigid or uncomfortable, you should have them examined professionally. You’ll be glad you did!

Advanced Foot Care
Robert E. Kuvent, DPM
3225 S Alma School Rd
Chandler, AZ 85248
480.917.2300
http://www.yourfeetfixer.com