Little under two years ago, Serena Clarkson was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder nearly eighteen months ago. As a result, the Hartsford resident had to receive six surgeries within a single day. In order to maintain her condition now and provide some mobility, Clarkson wears an ankle-foot orthotic.
“Even with the AFO I’m up to 2,249 feet a day and that’s it,” Clarkson said, “that’s all I can walk. I have an ankle stabilizer I wear on the left leg, and I’m pending surgery on that one.” According to statistics, 2.5 million Americans suffer from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder.
Nerve disorders affects more than mobility. If you are struggling with foot or ankle pain, see podiatrist Paula F. Raugellis, DPM of Greene Podiatry Assoc Inc. Dr. Raugellis can treat your podiatric needs.
Nerve Disorders of the Foot and Ankle
There are two nerve disorders of the foot and ankle called Interdigital Neuroma and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. These conditions affect the hands as well, and are caused by stress and genetics. People who suffer from Interdigital Neuroma and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome are prone to serious pain and inflammation in the area.
Pain that is associated with Interdigital Neuroma is often from local inflammation in the nerves in the front of the foot. Symptoms include pain, burning, and/or tingling sensations of the toes.
There are several steps a doctor will take to determine if one has Neuroma such as: radiographs, MRIs, and bone scans. Surgery is not required in many instances, and should only be considered when the patient is suffering from persistent pain.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that is less common than Interdigital Neuroma. It only seems to affect patients who have severe ankle pain which begins in the bottom of the foot extending all the way to the calf. In other instances one may encounter partial numbness and atrophy if the cases are extreme.
EMG tests are often provided to diagnose Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. If a patient shows signs of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrom, an MRI will be used to see the compression of the nerve. As always, if symptoms do persist, surgery may be required.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
Read the Full Article on Nerve Disorders of the Foot and Ankle