Leisure World News

B26 March 2022 • Wellness • www.lwca.com Don’t Let Stiff Foot Joints Affect Everyday Living! By Reisha Zang One in 40 people over the age of 50 may find themselves limiting their activity because of a condition called hallux rigidus. It is a degenerative disease of the big toe joint and the most common form of arthritis in the foot. As it progresses, the pain in the joint increases and motion decreases. How the big toe moves, or doesn’t, affects the whole body. “People don’t realize the impact their big toe has on their life. It plays a role in balance, shock absorption, and forward movement as you walk,” explains Dr. Daniel Schulman of CiC Foot & Ankle. “When the joint is stiff, it is not able to bend and rotate properly, and it changes how we walk without us even realizing it.” These changes can lead to back or knee pain and discomfort in other parts of the foot. Affecting Daily Life It also affects everyone, from those who just want to be able to run errands or walk around the block to those who enjoy a more active lifestyle. For golfers, in particular, a stiff big toe makes their game suffer. The swing generates a high level of stress on the feet. The motion of the lead foot forces the weight to roll over onto the outer edges of the foot while the back foot rolls in over the arch, tending to flatten it out. When the big toe joint isn’t functioning properly because of arthritis, it throws everything off balance. “It always concerns me to hear that someone isn’t playing as much golf anymore or is sitting on the sidelines of get-togethers with friends and family because they’re hurting” says Dr. Schulman. “There are ways to help alleviate the pain.” The first step is to evaluate the gait cycle. “We need to take a look at what’s happening to your feet when you’re walking,” says Dr. Schulman. “We can do this with a computerized gait analysis, which measures the pressures on different points of your feet when your feet hit the ground.” Treatment Plan A computerized mat collects data to evaluate weight distribution, balance and sway. This information helps foot doctors create a treatment plan. The goal is to protect your feet from the repetitive stress of sports activities and everyday walking. “We have several treatment options to not only relieve foot pain but help improve how your feet work. If we can help your feet function better, in many cases the need for surgery can be avoided or at the very least postponed,” says Dr. Schulman. He urges people to seek help at the first sign of discomfort. The sooner a condition is evaluated, the better the opportunity for effective treatment. “I work closely with my patients. We’re a team, it takes both of us to manage a foot problem. There is nothing to be gained waiting to see if something will go away on its own.” says Dr. Schulman. “My patients are always happy to learn about treatments that will help them feel better.” Don’t delay. Feel better and get help! -Reisha Zang is Director of Communications at CIC. You may contact her at 480-860-6455 or reisha.zang@ciccenters.com . FOOT HEALTH