Bunions refer to abnormal enlargements/lumps overlying the big toe joint or metatarsal joint. It is medically refereed to as a ‘Hallux valgus’ or HAV, and are common causes of pain in the big toe. Bunions can also occur overlying the…
Heel Bursitis is a condition where one of the bursae at the back of the heel becomes swollen, inflamed and painful. A bursa is a fluid filled sac that cushions muscles, tendons and joints. There are 3 main types of…
Bursas are fluid filled sacs located between bone, muscles, tendons and skin. A bursa’s function is to reduce pressure and friction between these tissues by providing cushioning and lubrication during movement. When a bursa is irritated or inflamed causing pain,…
Heel spurs are described as a boney outgrowth on the bottom of the heel bone (calcaneus) that extends into underlying soft tissue of the foot. Heel spurs are often linked with plantar fasciitis. The protrusion of the boney heel spur…
Bruised heels/fat pads, also known as a fat pad contusion, is bruising of the fat pad or surrounding tissues of the heel bone (calcaneus). The bruising can be due to an acute traumatic event, such as landing from a height,…
The Tibialis Posterior tendon originates from the deep posterior upper calf region, and travels down past the medial ankle region and attaches onto multiple bones in the foot. Its main role is to invert the foot (roll the foot outwards)…
Shin Splints refers to pain experienced along the inside, lower third of the leg or ‘shin’ region and is a common complaint of long distance runners. Medical practitioners rarely use the term ‘Shin Splints’ as there is a range of…
Plantar Fasciitis is the most common condition responsible for pain under the heel and/or under the arch of the foot. The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous band that spans from underneath the heel to the front of the toes. …
The Achilles’ tendon is the longest tendon in the body and attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone. It’s main purpose is to assist in pointing of the toes and is active during the propulsive phase of the gait…
Osteoarthritis is the most common ‘arthritic’ condition to affect the joints of the body. It affects a large portion of the population and can be extremely debilitating. An important component of any joint in the body is cartilage. Its main…