A degenerative foot disorder is one that occurs gradually over time as a result of damage to cells, muscles, tendons or ligaments. The foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments, which according to the National Institutes of Health makes it especially susceptible to damage and injury. Combine that with the fact that the foot has to endure the stress from the weight of the body daily, which makes it a target for degenerative disorders.
Achilles Tendinosis
Achilles tendinosis, also called degenerative tendinopathy, is a chronic condition caused by the degeneration of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon, like any other tendon, can sustain injuries that result in tiny tears in the tendon. Normally the tendon repairs these tears, but in some people the blood supply to the Achilles tendon is not sufficient. Without sufficient blood, the tendon does not repair itself. As more and more tiny tears occur, the tendon thickens and becomes weak and painful. Because the tendon cannot repair itself, treatment is difficult, but physical therapy, stretching and wearing braces may help. Surgery may also help, but depending on the amount of deterioration, a successful outcome is difficult to predict.
Flat Feet
Flat feet result when the posterior tibial tendon, which is responsible for creating and maintaining the arch in the foot, becomes stretched or torn. This can happen over time, especially in overweight people and can even cause the other supporting ligaments in the foot to stretch or tear. The resulting flat foot can cause pain, and the foot may become stiff. As the disorder deteriorates further, the joints in the back of the foot can become stiff and limit movement. Treatment may involve the use of supportive orthotics or surgery to repair the tendon or in extreme cases the insertion of bone grafts to rebuild the structure of the foot.
Foot Ulcers
A foot ulcer is the breakdown of skin and the formation of an ulcer caused by friction or pressure. Normally people can feel when there is uncomfortable caused by shoes; however patients with diabetes do not have normal nerve function and feeling in their feet. Because of abnormal sugar levels, the nerves in the feet are unable to send the proper signals to the brain; this condition is known as neuropathy. Over time the condition becomes worse, and feeling in the feet is lost. Foot ulcers can grow very large and if left untreated can lead to bone infections.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative condition caused by the deterioration of the fatty tissue known as the heel pad. In addition, the ligaments that attach to the heel can become inflamed through wear and tear and unusual stress to the heel. This disorder is more commonly seen in those who are overweight, especially overweight women according to information provided by the Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction. Treatment involves heel stretching exercises and providing support to the heel by using a silicone heel pad.
