The accessory navicular is an additional piece of cartilage or bone located in the medial foot arch, alongside the navicular bone. It is present in approximately 10 percent of the population and is considered to be a congenital anomaly. Its origin remains somewhat mysterious, with a suspected genetic link. Accessory naviculars often form during adolescence, in three distinct types. Type 1 is a small, round, or oval sesamoid bone within the posterior tibial tendon. It is not connected to the navicular bone and accounts for a third of the cases. Type 2, which is found in more than half the cases, is a heart-shaped or triangular bone connected to the navicular by a layer of cartilage. The largest accessory navicular, type 3, fuses to the navicular bone through a bony bridge and forms a horn-shaped bone. It is found in about 15 percent of the cases and is often referred to as the cornuate navicular. Many individuals with accessory navicular do not experience symptoms. However, types 2 and 3 may lead to accessory navicular syndrome, causing discomfort and inflammation. A podiatrist can perform tests to recognize the presence of an accessory navicular and suggest an appropriate treatment plan. For help, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Recurrent ankle sprains pose a persistent challenge, impacting both daily activities and long-term joint health. When the ligaments surrounding the ankle undergo repeated stress or fail to heal properly after an initial sprain, individuals become susceptible to recurrent injuries. The telltale signs include swelling, pain, and instability, often accompanied by a popping or tearing sensation. Factors contributing to this cycle of sprains range from inadequate rehabilitation after the initial injury to anatomical predispositions and muscle imbalances. Individuals experiencing recurrent ankle sprains may find their range of motion compromised, affecting mobility and overall foot function. If you have sprained your ankle for the first time, or are experiencing recurrent ankle sprains. It is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong from California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running, a dynamic and invigorating exercise, offers a multitude of physical benefits. However, the repetitive impact of this activity can also lead to potential injuries if not approached with caution. Prevention of running injuries becomes paramount, and a holistic strategy is key to ensuring runners can continue to enjoy their passion without setbacks. Consistent warm-up routines, including dynamic stretches, prepare muscles and joints for the demands of running, reducing the risk of strains. Wearing appropriate footwear that provides ample support and cushioning is essential in maintaining optimal biomechanics during each stride. Gradual progression in training intensity and distance allows the body to adapt, minimizing the risk of overuse injuries. Incorporating cross training activities and strength exercises helps balance muscle development and enhances overall endurance. Active recovery, including stretching and cool-down exercises, is equally vital in preventing stiffness and promoting flexibility. If you have sustained an injury from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.