17 May What is Osteochondritis?
Are you familiar with osteochondritis? Osteochondritis occurs when a piece of bone in a joint dies and later separates from the rest of the bone. It can occur in any joint of the body, but is most commonly noticed in the feet, ankles, and knees. Osteochondritis can be caused from a few different things.
- Ischemia: This is when the bone is not getting enough blood, therefore, not receiving nutrients to stay alive and attached.
- Genetic factors: Often times inherited from a parent.
- Stress on the joint: Any constant stress on a joint including any athletes who over work their joints can be left with osteochondritis.
In some cases of the loose fragment of bone may remain in place, and over time repair on its own. In most cases, the loose bone fragment will fall into joint space. This is when patients with osteochondritis will experience the following symptoms.
- Pain is the most common symptom. Walking, running, or stairs may become difficult.
- The area surrounding the joint will usually swell and become very tender.
- The joint affected will experience a decrease in range of motion. Some cases can leave the joint feeling nearly immobile.
Fortunately, there are several treatment methods for osteochondritis. Every patient and every joint calls for a different solution. A nonsurgical solution for those experiencing this pain in the feet and ankles can be a visit to a podiatrist! Cherrywood Foot Care, located in Bellmore, helps patients cope with the symptoms of osteochondritis regularly. We have four advanced and experienced doctors who take pride in reducing their patients pain. If you are living on Long Island and are looking for pain relief, we urge you to call us. Our office happily accepts new patients and is accepting of a wide variety of insurance plans! Call us today and let us help you walk pain-free again!