There is exciting news from the medical field for a promising new material to treat patients with pain and stiffness caused by arthritis in the toes.  A report in Europe finds that around half a million British citizens have painful arthritic toes, which is mainly in the big toe.   A newly available implant, Cartiva, can now stop pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. Hillingdon, Middlesex resident Val Cornwall had the operation done in February 2011 and is now as active as ever. The implant is made of a putty-like material and was placed between the bones of Cornwall’s toe to keep them from rubbing together, acting as a shock absorber similar to cartilage. Cornwall’s operation took 40 minutes under general anesthetic. The next morning, she left the hospital with painkillers to ease the healing process.
As of the summer of 2015, Cartiva is still not yet available in the United States.  It is available in Europe, South America, and Canada however.  Further FDA testing and grading will determine its fate for use in the U.S.A.
The feet are one of the most common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are suffering from the pain of arthritis in your feet or ankles, see Dr. Neal Mozen, D.P.M. of Foot Health Care Associates. Dr. Mozen will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Arthritic Foot Care

In an average lifetime, we walk approximately 75,000 miles. This can put a great deal of stress on the 26 bones and 30 joints that we have in our feet. As we get older, our feet lose flexibility and elasticity. Our shock absorbers weaken, and if arthritis comes into play, the joints become inflamed and distorted. Arthritic foot care and treatment would become imperative at this point.
It is best to take care of your feet by wearing well-fitted shoes. Certain conditions may develop when you wear shoes that don’t fit properly, for example hammertoes, neuroma, and bunions. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room in the shoe can help your feet be comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with arch support will help; it is also a good idea to buy shoes that contour to your foot.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

-Specific exercises may help; stretching the Achilles tendon can prevent further pain and injury. Stretching can also increase your mobility.
For more information about Arthritic Foot Care, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Southfield, Novi, and Livonia, MI. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
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