Let’s start with some background about the Lisfranc Joint. It is located between the midfoot and forefoot at the joints between the metatarsals and the cuneiforms and cuboid bones [collectively known as the tarsal bones]. There is a special Lisfranc ligament that connects the 2^nd metatarsal to the 1^st cuneiform. Lisfranc joint injuries are rare, but can be difficult to treat as they are often misdiagnosed. So how do Lisfranc injuries occur? It is most commonly occurs in automobile accident victims, military personnel, runners, football players (and other contact sports), and sometimes even a staircase foot slip can all cause the injury. If you fit in one of these categories of personnel and are experiencing pain and swelling in the aforementioned region then please come see Dr. Steinberg, Dr. Yanes, or Dr. Ho at Frederick Foot and Ankle Specialists.

Why should we write about an injury that rarely occurs? Well, simply because if it does occur you should be aware of the symptoms and complications that can arise from the injury. Matt Schaub, of the Houston Texans (NFL), was recently diagnosed (last Sunday!) with a Lisfranc injury. His injury, most likely, occurred as he planted his forefoot to the ground, had his heel in the air and twisted his foot. Obviously, to be certain of the injury Matt Schaub went to see his doctor and a Foot and Ankle Specialist. Coincidentally, that’s part of our practice’s name! Visit us at our locations in Frederick or Urbana, MD to get your consultation of your injury.

We’ll do the necessary tests and referrals to properly diagnose your injury and get you the proper treatment for your ailment. If the injury is stable (bones aligned) we’ll begin with a period of immobilization followed by gradual return to activity. However, if it is unstable surgical treatment may be recommended. Surgery will depend on the amount of swelling the patient presents and the severity of the injury. We want to make sure you get the correct treatment because we don’t want you to experience changes in your foot, such as, widening of the foot. Recovery from such an injury can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year. We’ll definitely make sure to take all the precautions to ensure a fast and speedy recovery!

As always check your feet daily and stop by! It can help avoid future health problems!

By. Dr. Yenisey Yanes

September is the national Peripheral Arterial Disease Awareness Month. Around our clinics in Frederick and Urbana, MD we have tried to let our patients and communities know the seriousness of the disease. However, Dr. Yanes, Dr. Steinberg, Dr. Ho and our staff are only a handful of people and get reach out to the masses. What better way to wrap up the awareness month by addressing our blog community and hopefully a copious amount of individuals searching for more information over the disease.

PAD occurs when blood flow is restricted into the legs and feet. It occurs due to narrowing of the arteries and is a very serious condition. It is often called “The Silent Killer” because people often don't know they have PAD until severe conditions occur, such as heart attack and/or stroke occurs. Many patients don’t report any symptoms or disturbances related to PAD. In fact, only about a ¼ of the patients report having cramping in their legs. The cramping is due to the lack of oxygen and blood flow reaching the legs.

John Madden, an all-time great NFL coach and Monday Night commentator, is a public speaker for PAD. After his wife developed the disease, John Madden was surprised by how unaware he and the public were about the disease. He has made it a goal to make the public aware of this potential silent killer.

 At Frederick Foot and Ankle Specialists we can run diagnostics tests to determine if you have any claudication (blocking of vessels) in your lower extremities. We can provide you with excellent education and proper management if you do have PAD. Remember, PAD is known as ‘the silent killer’ but only because patients are not aware what to look for in their health.

PAD risk is increased in smokers, obesity, high cholesterol and diabetics. Proper diet, regular exercise and possible prescribed antiplatelet medication (discuss this with our doctors) can prevent and control PAD.

As always check your feet daily and stop by! It can help avoid future health problems!