Question
My 13 year old daughter had an infection(a cyst on her neck) that doctor has her on clindamycin (1800mg day) for 6 months. Antibiotic started in February, ends in August. Spring soccer began in April and when she started running the arches in her feet hurt. Spring soccer only lasted 7 weeks. She was wearing the same shoes and shin guards. I purchased a padding for the arches called struts. This has supported her feet and has helped but if she does a lot of walking without the struts her arches will hurt.

I know that some antibiotics can cause Achilles tendon damage. Clindamycin is not one of them but poly-arthritis is a possible side effect. I cannot wait for this course of antibiotics to be over because I am concerned with what this is doing to my daughters body. Right now I am thinking of seeing how her feet feel a couple of months after stopping the antibiotic but am concerned that this is not the right thing to do.

My question: Based on what information that I have provided, is there anything at this point a podiatrist can know about her feet? Is there inflammation in the arches? Will x-rays show that? I don't want to miss anything but no point in going to another doctor if it is too soon to know what is wrong.

thank you,
Sarah

Answer
Dear Sarah,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says...
Six months is a long time at that dose level. Usually a long course at that dose may involve other specialists & labs.
The arch pain may not be related to the Clindamycin-but a side effect is joint pain-for example the ankle. Call your doctor and mention the joint pain & that you are concerned about the length of time & what is the reason for such a long treatment. If you are not happy with the answer-I suggest you seek a second opinion regarding treatment of the cyst.
A Board Certified podiatrist will tell you the same. If the joint pain does not go away-then perhaps x-rays. Less X-rays are better.
Good understanding will allow you to make a good treatment choice.
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
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661


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