[RC] foot injury - Ridecamp GuestPlease Reply to: Dr. Bruce Weary bweary@xxxxxxxxxxxx or ridecamp@xxxxxxxxxxxxx ========================================== Mel-- Your foot injury sounds complex, and I thought I might be able to make some helpful suggestions. The muscles between your toes are called umbricles, and while you can't contract them voluntarily, they do contract involutarily to stabilize the foot when weight bearing, especially when you "toe-off" during walking, and, as such, are important to leave intact. Depending on how severe your injury is, you may still get some nerve regeneration over the next several months, even years. As long as your fractures have healed, and are stable, surgery would likely be fruitless. You should have what is called a nerve conduction study done, by a neurologist, to determine the location, nature and extent of the nerve damage.This would help predict your recovery and steer your treatment options.You have probably heard of carpal tunnel syndrome occurring in the wrist. There is a similar condition that occurs in the foot called tarsal tunnel syndrome. The joints of the foot are very tightly packed, allowing just enough space for the passage of nerves and blood vessels. One of the after effects of an injury like yours is called joint dysfunction, where these joints become "stuck", and great relief is often afforded by a skilled foot manipulation. In the meantime, alternating heat and cold along with firm massage to your tolerance toward the heart may give some relief after a long day (or ride). Hope this helps. Bruce Weary D.C. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net. Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/Ridecamp Subscribe/Unsubscribe http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/logon.asp Ride Long and Ride Safe!! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
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