Stephon Tuitt, a defensive lineman for the Notre Dame is missing work outs due to his injured foot. Tuitt will be out for six to eight weeks while he recovers. For many football players this is a crucial time to show recruiters what they have to offer, and may be the only chance they have to prove themselves. Tuitt suffered a Jone’s fracture, which is caused from forced inversion and plantar flexion of the foot (downward and in motion of the foot). Jone’s fractures are further classified by the location of the fracture, or by the mechanism. The fracture can be an avulsion fracture, stress fracture, or a true Jone’s fracture. Tuitt had what is referred to as a Jone’s avulsion fracture.

A Jone’s avulsion fracture occurs when a piece of the 5th metatarsalis torn off by a tendon. The 5th metatarsal is the long bone on the outer part of the foot. The peroneus brevis attaches to the 5th metatarsal, and is responsible for this type of fracture. Blood flow to this area is sparse, and makes healing of this type of fracture more difficult. Conservative treatment consists of immobilization with a cast and crutches. In cases that do not heal, then surgery may be the only successful option. Surgical treatment consists of fixation of the bone fragment with a screw, and bone graft may also be needed.

In competitive athletes, such as Tuitt, surgery is often the initial treatment in order to decrease the healing time so that the athlete may return to activity. Even though Tuitt is missing out on Pro Day there is speculation that Tuitt may have his own Pro Day at a separate date once he has healed so he will not miss his opportunity to shine. Tuitt may not be at full strength after being out for so long, but he should make a full recovery from his Jone’s fracture.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

More than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy exist, and each type comes with different symptoms, and often a different prognosis. Small sensory fibers transmit pain and temperature sensation, and in small-fiber peripheral neuropathy these fibers are damaged. Large fibers are involved in vibratory sense and proprioception, or being able to sense the movement and orientation of body parts. Believe it or not, peripheral neuropathy can be caused by physical injury, systemic disease, autoimmune diseases, infections, or even be inherited. There is no cure for peripheral neuropathy, and depending on the type and severity, treatment may be less than optimal. Neuropathic pain is often difficult to control, and in diabetics can be the cause of serious complications.

Boston Children’s Hospital has developed a topical skin cream that may relieve the type of neuropathy often found in diabetics, called small-fiber neuropathy. This topical cream cannot regenerate the damaged fibers, but allows a group of factors known as GDNF to stimulate nerve growth. This stimulation improves the health and function of the neurons, and when studied in mice this led to improved sensation, even in diabetic mice with advanced disease. This peripheral neuropathy treatment may help a lot of diabetic patients that have uncontrolled pain and decreased sensation in their extremities. This topical cream can be applied directly to the areas that are most affected, and provide more targeted treatment. The fact that the cream would be applied directly to the source would also mean that there would be less systemic side effects. Currently, the skin cream is being tested to determine if the cream would have any benefit in patients with large-fiber neuropathy.

If this topical cream becomes available it has the potential to help the millions of Americans that suffer from neuropathy. Until then there are still many treatments available to help ease the pain. If you are suffering from neuropathy, contact your podiatrist in Columbus Ohio.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

The phrase, “don’t shoot yourself in the foot”, is a common expression that means to not say or do something that is damaging or careless. However, a 16-year old boy from Chicago made this expression literal when he shot himself in the foot when trying to defend himself from a robber. When the teen was approached by robbers he pulled out his gun, and accidentally fired it, hitting his own foot. The boy was taken to a hospital, and reported to be in good condition.

Gun shot wounds on the lower extremity are not that uncommon, in fact they make up about 5% of all gunshot wounds. Gun shot wounds in the lower extremity are usually not fatal, but still require a lot of care. The anatomy in the lower extremity is complex, and consists of 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments, 19 muscles, numerous tendons, arteries and nerves all in a small amount of space. Treatment varies greatly depending on the amount of soft tissue, bone, arterial, and nerve damage. First, a radiograph and CT will be taken to identify the location of the bullet if the bullet is still in the foot, and also view the extent of the damage. This type of injury will be treated very similar to an open fracture wound so local wound care, tetanus update, and antibiotics are important. Wound cultures will need to be taken, and antibiotic therapy will be adjusted accordingly. If surgery is indicated and the patient is stable, then open reduction internal fixation or external fixation will be done to correct and stabilize the bones. Often skin grafts are needed when there is extensive soft tissue damage. The end result may not be the best in appearance, but the goal is to retain as much function as possible. In the case of injury to blood supply, then surgery will need to be done urgently to prevent gangrene or loss of the limb. Another urgent situation that may arise is compartment syndrome, and will also require emergency surgery to relieve pressure. Special care must be taken to remove all lead fragments that the bullet may have left behind to prevent lead toxicity.

Gunshot injuries to the lower extremity are very serious even though they are not typically fatal. Management of gunshot wounds can be tricky because of the amount of structures in the foot. Treatment may involve multiple procedures, lots of wound care, and even amputation. The best way to prevent this type of injury is simply; don’t shoot yourself in the foot!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

February 11, 2014
For Immediate Release
Contact: Charles Farmer at

884-4400 or 843-8400 after 5 pm
1100 Dennison Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
614-884-4400-office
800-422-7946-toll free
614-884-4484-fax
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Central Ohio Diabetes Association NEWS

Central Ohio Diabetes Association Continues To Celebrate
50 Years of Serving the Community by Hosting
An Open House Promoting Living A Healthy Lifestyle

In 1964, a group of Central Ohio Doctors founded the Central Ohio Diabetes Association with the goal of helping Central Ohioans with diabetes to detect their condition, prevent onset and complications and learn to live well with the challenge of the disease. Now 50 years later that mission continues to be carried out at the Central Ohio Diabetes Association.

On Wednesday, February 26, the Central Ohio Diabetes Association will host a community event, “An Open House Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle,” which is part of its Brush Up Series on Diabetes Care from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the agency Headquarters, 1100 Dennison Ave. For more information call 614-884-4400.

This event is designed to offer clients and neighbors of Central Ohio Diabetes Association information about services and products related to diabetes self-management and also to give them an opportunity to participate in short workshops that offer practical instruction in cooking, stress management and exercise.

Caring for Diabetes is a 24 hour, seven day a week job and no matter how much you know it never hurts to get a “Brush-Up” on how to take care of yourself.

Whether you have diabetes, pre-diabetes or are at risk for the disease, this session could help you or someone you know who is affected by diabetes.

Some of the featured vendors scheduled to attend include: Arena Eye Surgeons, Clintonville Community Resource Center, Columbus Podiatry and Surgery, Inc., Exact Care Pharmacy, Local Matters/Cooking Matters, the Lower Lights Christian Health Center, National Kidney Foundation, OSU Comprehensive Wound Center, Roche AccuChek, Susmita Sadana, PhD, Cookbook Author, United Health Care Community Plan and the YMCA.

Registration is required, please call 884-4400 and ask about the Brush-Up Open House Session.

Ankle joint arthritis can be just as debilitating or more than hip, back, or knee joint arthritis. Ankle arthritis often occurs in people that have had a prior history of traumatic injuries to the ankle, such as ankle fractures or sprains. When a person has debilitating ankle joint arthritis total ankle replacements and ankle fusions are often the treatment of choice when conservative methods have failed. There are many factors that physicians utilize when determining which treatment option is the most appropriate.

Surgical options are only sought once the arthritis begins interfering with daily activities, and pain cannot be controlled with conservative methods. Total ankle replacements can help relieve pain while maintaining motion in the joint. Fusions on the other hand work by eliminating motion entirely, thus eliminating pain. When initially looking at these two options, the total ankle replacement may seem like a no brainer, but as with any surgical procedure there are some cons. Total ankle replacements often fail within 10-20 years depending on the activity level of the patient, and the type of replacement apparatus used. Most people should expect a revision surgery down the road so a replacement may not be ideal for those that want to avoid future surgeries. If the fibula, which is the bone on the outside part of the leg, is not left intact then future revisions may be more complicated. Fusions are also known as an ankle arthrodesis, and are considered to be the “gold standard” as far as surgical treatment. Fusions are often done in younger patients because younger patients are often too active for total ankle replacements to be successful. As newer generation ankle replacements become available the eligibility for total ankle replacements may begin including more people. The average age for total ankle replacement procedures is around 60 years old, and is similar to the average age for other joint replacement surgeries.

Regardless of the location, arthritis is a leading cause for disability, and is an important condition to treat. There are many options available, and the best option varies depending on individual factors. Speak to your Podiatrist if you suffer from painful ankle arthritis, and would like to see what options are best for you.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Chondrosarcoma is the fancy medical term for one of the most common types of bone cancer in the foot. About 30% of tumors affecting the bone are chondrosarcomas. This type of cancer arises from the cartilage cells in bones. This cancer is also known to spread quickly so early diagnosis is important for optimal treatment. Even though this type of cancer is the most common bone tumor that affects the foot, cancer in the foot is very rare.

There are certain conditions that increase the risk of getting a chondrosarcoma. Ollier’s disease and Maffucci’s syndrome drastically increase the risk of getting a chondrosarcoma. Ollier disease is a skeletal disorder that leads to cartilaginous tumors that may end up becoming malignant. Maffucci’s syndrome causes many benign bone tumors to develop, and these benign tumors may become malignant. The tumors that these conditions cause are known as enchondromas. These enchondromas present most commonly on the hands, and sometimes the feet. Enchondromas rarely become malignant, but since they affect the cartilage they usually turn into a chondrosarcoma when they become malignant. The lesion presents as a slow growing mass with mild pain. Some genetic mutations are sometimes responsible for these malignancies, such as RB-1 gene and p53 gene. RB-1 gene is also associated with causing a tumor in the eye. The p53 gene is a tumor suppressor gene so when there is a mutation, then cells can divided uncontrollably leading to a tumor.

Treatment of chondrosarcomas depends on the stage that the cancer is found. Radiation, chemotherapy, and surgical resection are options. If the cancer is caught early, then the tumor may be resected easily and minimal deformity or defect will remain. If the cancer has spread, then an amputation may be necessary. Although this is a very rare condition this type of cancer can be very debilitating if not treated early. Knowing what to look for, and being cognizant of changes are the keys to early detection of any medical condition. Here are some common symptoms of a bone tumor:

• Large mass on bone
• Pain that is present for years, but worsens over time
• Feeling of pressure in the area
• Pain that is worse at night, but relieved with NSAIDS
• Pain is not relieved by rest

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

One out of every three people over the age of 65 falls annually in the United States, and by the age of 80 falling at least once a year is almost inevitable. Falls often lead to hospitalizations, disability, or even death. Because falls are so common there are many devices made to help prevent falls, especially in the elderly.

Balance is the key to preventing falls, and there are many devices that help with balance. Canes and walkers are some of the most common devices used to help people maintain independence and be able to walk more safely. Some Podiatrists make custom Ankle Foot Orthotics that provide ankle stability and help by improving walking speed, stride length, and gait pattern. Tai Chi is an exercise technique that has helped people to improve their balance, and also maintain a healthy lifestyle. Most of these devices and techniques have been used for many years, but there have been some new developments on a shoe that will help the elderly with balance, and potentially prevent falls. This new tech savvy shoe is called the B-shoe (A.K.A. Balancing Shoe), which is made by a company in Israel. The shoe can sense when a person is losing their balance, and performs a backward step to allow the person to regain balance. One of the lead scientists began the project because his own father had fallen, and he was determined to find a solution. The company is working on adding a feature to the shoe that will alert the wearer if there is an object coming up that will cause them to lose their balance. These shoes are not yet available to the public, but may be another option in the future for those that are prone to falls. Until then, here are a few tips to prevent falls:

• Exercise regularly
• Have your eyes checked once a year to make sure you are able to see any potential hazards
• Have your doctor or pharmacist review your medications to ensure that your medications won’t cause dizziness
• Wear shoes that provide adequate support and balance
• Talk with your doctor about using a cane or walker
• Reduce hazards in your home, and have grab bars installed if necessary
• Get screened for osteoporosis

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

There are many types of tumors that affect the foot, and many are benign. Two of the most common types are ganglion cysts and plantar fibromas. Ganglion cysts are also known as bible cysts because common treatment was hitting them with a bible so that the cyst would burst. Ganglion cysts are more common in younger people, while plantar fibromas are more common in older people.

Ganglion cysts often occur on the top of the foot, but are also very common on the hand. The cysts are fluid-filled, occur at joints, and often change size. Ganglion cysts are usually observed for any changes unless they reach a size that causes pain or pressure on nerves or arteries. Immobilization of the area is also sometimes helpful because activity often causes the cyst to increase in size. If they reach a large size, then further treatment may be beneficial. Further treatment of ganglion cysts usually consists of draining the fluid with a needle, or aspiration. Aspiration of the fluid is not always successful because the root of the cyst may remain, and the cyst will return. Surgical treatment may be recommended for recurring ganglion cysts.

Plantar fibromatosis is the most common benign tumor on the bottom of the foot. Plantar fibromatosis is also known as Ledderhose’s disease, which is a thickening of the foot’s plantar fascia. Over time the lump increases in size, and may start causing pain or limitations in activity. This type of benign tumor is often associated with a family history of the disease, or patients with diabetes. Initial treatment is off-loading to avoid direct pressure or worsening of the tumor. Corticosteroid injections and cryotherapy are often used initially before surgical options are considered. Surgical removal of a plantar fibroma is more difficult than removing a ganglion cyst, which is why more conservative therapy is recommended unless conservative methods have failed.

Ganglion cysts and plantar fibromatosis are only two of many types of possible tumors, but they are the most common benign tumors presenting in the foot. These are both very manageable conditions, but with any lump or bump in the foot it is important to see your Podiatrist to rule out something more serious.

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Almost half of people in their sixties and seventies suffer from arthritic foot pain. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are many types of treatments available that focus on pain management. Osteoarthritis typically occurs in older individuals, or people that have had a previous injury. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. Over time the cartilage between joints wears down leading to inflammation, swelling, and pain. In younger individuals that develop osteoarthritis there is usually a history of previous injury, family history of osteoarthritis, or obesity.

The foot consists of 33 joints, but there are a select few that are more prone to osteoarthritis than others. The ankle, the great toe, 3 joints in the hindfoot (talocalcaneal, calcaneocuboid, talonavicular joints), and the midfoot (metatarsocuneiform joint) are the most commonly affected joints. Osteoarthritis can also be caused by abnormal foot structure, such as flat foot or a high arch.

Some people believe that cold, damp weather exacerbates their osteoarthritis, and some even say they can predict the weather. Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include: stiffness, limitation of the joint, swelling, difficulty walking and tenderness that is persistent. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, and can be debilitating. There are many great treatments available, but here are just a few solutions for osteoarthritic foot pain:

1. See your podiatrist at least once a year to monitor changes, and modify treatment
2. Comfortable and supportive shoes are necessary, and sometimes orthotics or ankle braces are also helpful
3. Weight loss
4. Anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDS (ibuprofen) or corticosteroid injections that can be given by your podiatrist
5. Physical therapy and exercises
6. Try a topical medication that has capsaicin, an ingredient that will help reduce pain

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery has opened a new location in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.

Madonna is well known for her music career, and often referred to as the “Queen of Pop”. Madonna recently sustained a foot injury while skiing in Switzerland with her family, and then aggravated the injury by dancing in high-heeled shoes on New Year’s Eve. Madonna bruised a bone in her foot, and was given crutches to help her keep weight off the injured foot. While on crutches, Madonna was spotted at the gym getting in a workout!

A bruised bone occurs with some type of traumatic injury that involves a fall, or twisting motion. The innermost part of the bone is broken, and allows bleeding to occur. The type of bone bruise is classified by the extent of the damage, and also location of the bone that is bleeding. A bone bruise is very painful, and often presents with swelling. To make the diagnosis of a bone bruise an MRI is often necessary because damage to the bone may be minimal, and not detected by X-ray. Treatment consists of pain management, ice, and not placing more stress on the injured bone. Immobilization or bracing is often used to protect the bone from further injury, and allow the bone time to heal. Bone takes longer to heal than soft tissue, and for some people a full recovery may take a few months. On average a full recovery takes anywhere from 2-3 months.

According to reports, Madonna will be off crutches within a week. That is if she does not make her injury worse at the gym!

Please visit www.ColumbusFoot.com for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus Podiatry & Surgery is located on the North side of Columbus, Ohio near Worthington.

Columbus Podiatry & Surgery has opened a new location in Gahanna, near Easton. Please call 614-476-3338 (FEET) for an appointment with a podiatrist in Gahanna, OH today.