A recently published single-blind randomised control trial has demonstrated the clinical efficacy of foot orthoses in the treatment of anterior knee pain (i.e. patellofemoral pain syndrome). 40 subjects with anterior knee pain of at least 6 weeks duration who had not been treated with foot orthoses in the previous 5 years were divided into a control group (n = 20) that received no treatment and an intervention group (n = 20) that received foot orthoses. The clinical observation period was 6 weeks.
Results of the study showed that there was a significant global improvement (i.e. subjective pain reduction) with foot orthoses when compared to control (p = 0.0008). Of the orthosis group, 9 were much improved, 6 were improved, 4 showed no change and 1 dropped out. In the control group, 1 was much improved, 3 were improved, 15 showed no change and 1 became worse. Interestingly, subjects that demonstrated an increased change in midfoot width from weightbearing to non-weightbearing of more than 11.25 mm were more likely to report a successful outcome with foot orthoses (Mills K, Blanch P, Dev P, Martin M, Vicenzino B: A randomised control trial of short term efficacy of in-shoe foot orthoses compared with a wait and see policy for anterior knee pain and the role of foot mobility. Br J Sports Med, 46:247-252, 2011.)
This study adds significantly to other scientific research that also demonstrates the clinical efficacy of foot orthoses in treating anterior knee pain (Eng JJ, Pierrynowski MR: Evaluation of soft foot orthotics in the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome. Phys Therapy, 73:62-70, 1993; Collins N, Crossley K, Beller E, et al: Foot orthoses and physiotherapy in the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome: randomised clinical trial. BMJ, 337:a1735, 2008.)
So if you or anyone you know is suffering from anterior knee pain or other joint pains, come on into our office to get fitted for custom made orthotics. These devices are often covered by insurance companies for eligible patients. Call our office or stop by for more information.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Got Fungus? Zap it!
Do you have thick, yellowish, brittle, and easily cracked or broken toenails without having injured them? They are likely discolored due to a fungal infection called onychomycosis, which is the most common disease of the nails.
The nail weakens as fungi continue to grow through the nail tissue. Since fungus grows faster than the nail, damage increases and the nail becomes more and more unsightly, with the infection spreading to the root or base of the nail.
Yeast and molds are also suspected to cause toenail fungus. These types of fungi exist in warm and moist environments, like shower areas, locker rooms, swimming pools, and even your shoes (as toes are usually encased in shoes). People with circulatory problems, weak immune systems, or diabetes are at greater risk of developing fungal infections as well.
Nail fungus has been difficult to treat with success. The only options in the past have been topical or oral medications, which provide limited benefit. In addition, oral medication may cause liver damage. Now there is a safe, effective laser treatment for nail fungus. The laser destroys the fungus that causes onychomycosis with very little effect on the surrounding tissues. Treatment normally takes fewer than 20 minutes and there is no pain, although sometimes you may experience a warm or tingling sensation. There are no age or health restrictions for laser treatments.
Laser toenail treatment is considered aesthetic (cosmetic). Therefore most health insurance plans do not cover treatment, and it can be costly. Consult with your podiatric physician to determine if this course of action is right for you.
Article courtesy of American Podiatric Medical Association.
The nail weakens as fungi continue to grow through the nail tissue. Since fungus grows faster than the nail, damage increases and the nail becomes more and more unsightly, with the infection spreading to the root or base of the nail.
Yeast and molds are also suspected to cause toenail fungus. These types of fungi exist in warm and moist environments, like shower areas, locker rooms, swimming pools, and even your shoes (as toes are usually encased in shoes). People with circulatory problems, weak immune systems, or diabetes are at greater risk of developing fungal infections as well.
Nail fungus has been difficult to treat with success. The only options in the past have been topical or oral medications, which provide limited benefit. In addition, oral medication may cause liver damage. Now there is a safe, effective laser treatment for nail fungus. The laser destroys the fungus that causes onychomycosis with very little effect on the surrounding tissues. Treatment normally takes fewer than 20 minutes and there is no pain, although sometimes you may experience a warm or tingling sensation. There are no age or health restrictions for laser treatments.
Laser toenail treatment is considered aesthetic (cosmetic). Therefore most health insurance plans do not cover treatment, and it can be costly. Consult with your podiatric physician to determine if this course of action is right for you.
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