NorthPointe News March 2018 Volume 9 Issue 3

NorthPointe Foot & Ankle 27901 Woodward Ave.

Suite 110 Berkley, MI 48072

(248) 545-0100 MichiganFootCare.com

Lee Hoffman, DPM Brian Kissel, DPM

Charles Kissel, DPM Michael Schey, DPM David Ungar, DPM

Marc Weitzman, DPM

MEET OUR PATIENTS

With this month’s newsletter, we are beginning to introduce some of our patients. We hope you enjoy learning about a few of the people you may see in the office or out in the community.

Andr’e Manning

Andr’e Manning is a long-time patient of NorthPointe. He has been treated by Dr. Schey for over 21 years.

After being introduced to our NorthPointe Foot & Ankle practice by his mother-in-law, Mr. Manning relies on our services to keep his feet in good condition and help him navigate through diabetic foot concerns. Mr., Manning lives with his wife, also a NorthPointe patient, in Troy.

We always look forward to his visits and thank him for trusting in our care.

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Doctors@NorthPointeFoot.com

CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY Chronic ankle instability is a condition character-ized by a recurring “giving way” of the outer (lateral) side of the ankle. This condition often develops after repeated ankle sprains. Usually the “giving way” occurs while walking or doing other activities, but it can also happen when you’re just standing. Many athletes, as well as others, suffer from chronic ankle instability.

People with chronic ankle instability often complain of:

A repeated turning of the ankle, especially on uneven surfaces or when participating in sports Persistent (chronic) discomfort and swelling Pain or tenderness The ankle feeling wobbly or unstable

Chronic ankle instability usually develops following an ankle sprain that has not adequately healed or was not rehabilitated completely. When you sprain your ankle, the connective tissues (ligaments) are stretched or torn. The ability to balance is often affected. Proper rehabilitation is needed to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and “retrain” the tissues within the ankle that affect bal-ance. Failure to do so may result in repeated ankle sprains.

Repeated ankle sprains often cause – and perpetuate – chronic ankle instability. Each subsequent sprain leads to further weakening (or stretch-ing) of the ligaments, resulting in greater instability and the likelihood of develop-ing additional problems in the ankle.

In evaluating and diagnosing your condition, the foot and ankle surgeon will ask you about any previous ankle injuries and instability. Then he will examine your ankle to check for tender areas, signs of swelling, and instability of your ankle. X-rays or other imaging studies may be helpful in further evaluating the ankle.

Treatment Treatment for chronic ankle instability is based on the results of the examination and tests, as well

as on the patient’s level of activity. Non-surgical treatment may include:

Physical therapy. Physical therapy involves various treatments and exercises

to strengthen the ankle, improve balance and range of motion, and retrain your

muscles. As you progress through rehabili-tation, you may also receive training that relates specifically to your activities or sport.

Bracing. Some patients wear an ankle brace to gain support for the ankle and keep the ankle from turning. Bracing also helps prevent additional ankle sprains.

Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as

ibuprofen, may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.

In some cases, your NorthPointe Foot & Ankle surgeon will recommend surgery based on the degree of instability or lack of response to non-surgical approaches.

Surgery usually involves repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligament(s). The surgeon will select the surgical procedure best suited for your case based on the severity of the instability and your activity level. The length of the recov-ery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.

High Heel Stress Orthotics Meet Patient Lashawna Peeples

Lashawna Peeples is a down-to-earth person that loves her family!

Ms. Peeples is new to NorthPointe Foot & Ankle. She is a former shuttle bus driver that resides in Detroit.

Ms. Peeples has been to the NorthPointe Medical Building in the past, which is how she found us.

When she began to experience problems with her ankle, she knew right where to turn! Dr. Schey is now helping her through her ankle issues.

When possible, Lashawna enjoys getting out and travelling.

Thank you for choosing NorthPointe Ms. Peeples! We are sure Dr. Schey will have you feeling better in no time!

Orthotics, also known as orthoses, refers to any device inserted into a shoe, ranging from felt pads to custom-made shoe inserts that correct an abnormal or irregular, walking pattern. Sometimes called arch supports, orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably. While over-the-counter orthotics are available and may help people with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of

symptoms that prescription foot orthoses can since they are not custom made to fit an individual's unique foot structure.

Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main cate-gories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.

Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.

Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.

Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.

If you are experiencing foot pain, balance or instability issues, consult with your NorthPointe Foot & Ankle podiatrist about the best treatment options for you.

Nearby Walking Trails - Keep Feet Moving

Walking and biking are heart-healthy activities that encourage family communication and offer opportunities for outdoor learning. The Oakland County Parks system offers more than 70 miles of paved and natural trails for walking, jogging, skating and biking.

Dogs are welcome on trails but must be on a six-foot leash at all times, unless inside the dog parks at Lyon Oaks, Orion Oaks or Red Oaks.

The Oak Routes network of trails, pathways, and blueways traverses much of the 910 square miles of the county. This non-motorized system serves a diverse range of users, providing safe and well-maintained linkages to important natural, cultural and civic destinations and other points of interest within and outside of the county.

Think Spring! Get your feet moving on an interesting Oakland County Trail! www.oakgov.com/parks