Question
Dr. Tsatsos:

I have been experiencing off and on an odd discomfort on the bottom left side of my left foot for a few months now.  The best way I can describe it, is that it is similar to a knee giving way which makes you feel like you are going to fall but your body recovers quickly.  My left foot kind of does the same thing.  On a regular normal basis, I do not have pain.  But this feeling of collapse does concern me.  I particularly noticed yesterday when going up and down a small step stool to clean kitchen cabinets. When I step down on the step stool and finally put pressured on my left foot on the floor it would give way then as well.  

What might cause that?  I haven't had an injury that I can recall.  But it does make me nervous that perhaps I will fall eventually because of it and possibly incur other injuries.

Thank you for your response in advance.  

Sincerely,

Mitzi

Answer
Dear Mitzi,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618, Ukranian Village 60622, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says...
Unfortunately as we age, certain people are prone to what sounds like posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Other causes are obesity & avoidance of exercise. Good news is that when caught early-it's progression may be slowed or halted. If it's weight & lack of exercise-that's addressable. Other aids are orthotics or braces.
If you are very active & the orthotics & braces don't help-there are surgical corrections for Posterior Tibial Tendon dysfunction.  

Hope this helps & Good Luck!

The Chicago Podiatrists of AnkleNFootCenters.com are specialists in orthopedics and sports medicine.
We are located in Chicago & Elmhurst

Dr George Tsatsos, Svetlana Zats, Dr Mariano Rivera, Dr Massard & Dr Kurtz
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & 60622. Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661


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