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Foot Notes
Posts for tag: arthritis
If your golf swing is suddenly out of whack, you might be unconciously compensating for pain in your feet. The three most common foot problems that could be ruining your game are Arthritis, Heel Pain and Neuroma.
Arthritis is an inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints, generally accompanied by an increase in the fluid in the joints which can cause a stiffening of your ankle joint, leading to instability which will ultimately affect your swing. It can also cause pain in the joint of your big toe, hindering your ability to follow-through. Arthritis of the foot and ankle can be treated in many ways, including:
- Physical therapy and exercise.
- Anti-inflammatory medication and/or steroid injections into the affected joint. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications.
- Orthotics or specially prescribed shoes.
Heel Pain or Plantar Fasciitis is caused by the inflammation of the connective tissues on the bottom of the foot. It can be very painful, like a knife jabbing in your foot and can make it difficult to maintain a solid stance during your golf swing. The condition is often successfully treated with conservative measures, such as the use of anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, stretching exercises, Orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Newer shockwave therapy is often used in severe cases that don't respond to more conservative treatments.
A Neuroma is an enlarged, benign growth of nerves, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Neuromas are caused by tissue rubbing against and irritating the nerves often as a result of poorly fitting shoes. Symptoms may include sensations of thickness, burning, numbness, tingling, or pain in the ball of the foot which can make it painful to transfer your wait from one foot to the other during your golf swing. Treatments generally include wearing corrective shoes or orthotics and/or cortisone injections. In severe cases, surgical removal of the growth may be necessary.
Other foot problems can also cause problems like calluses and corns from ill-fitting shoes so it is important to make sure that your golf shoes are comfortable and fit properly. And consider Orthotics for a truly customized fit!
If you are experiencing one of these conditions or any other foot problems that may be hampering your game or life in general, please contact us to make an appointment for a consultation with one of our foot care specialists..