Treatment Options for Tarsal Coalition
Do you suffer from foot pain, stiffness, and limited motion? You could be dealing with a tarsal coalition, a condition where two or more bones in your feet join abnormally. This abnormal fusion leads to various foot problems, pain during activity, and reduced mobility. Thankfully, there are treatments available to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. In this blog post, we'll look into tarsal coalition treatments from a podiatrist.
Conservative Treatments
If your tarsal coalition is diagnosed in its early stages, your podiatrist may recommend conservative treatments. These methods could include rest, ice, compression, elevation, and physiotherapy to stretch and strengthen your feet. In some cases, the podiatrist will prescribe custom orthotics or braces. These treatments help alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage.
Steroid Injections
Another common tarsal coalition treatment is corticosteroid injections. These injections help reduce inflammation and ease pain. However, they are not recommended for long-term use as they can weaken the surrounding bones and tissues. Your podiatrist will work with you to determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs.
Surgery
Surgery is often the last resort for tarsal coalition treatment. If conservative treatments haven't helped alleviate your symptoms, your podiatrist may recommend surgical intervention. Depending on the case, the procedure may involve separating the abnormally fused bones in younger patients or inserting screws to stabilize the bones and hold them together permanently in older patients. Your podiatrist will discuss the risks and benefits of each surgical option with you.
Aftercare
After treatment, it is essential to maintain good at-home care to help prevent complications and recurrence. Your podiatrist may recommend physical therapy, wearing appropriate footwear with orthotics, and attending regular checkups with your podiatrist to track your progress. Your podiatrist will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and tips to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Why See a Podiatrist?
Podiatrists specialize in treating foot and ankle conditions and possess the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and treat tarsal coalition. They can help determine the best treatment option based on your needs and lifestyle. With their help, you can manage your symptoms and achieve the best possible outcome.
Tarsal coalition can be a painful, frustrating, and sometimes debilitating condition, but with the proper diagnosis and treatment from a podiatrist, you can make significant steps towards recovery. Whether through conservative treatments, steroid injections, or surgery, there are options available to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. For more information, contact a podiatrist near you.