What is osteomyelitis? Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone with progressive inflammatory destruction. What causes osteomyelitis? There are many ways a bone can develop an infection, but are mainly categorized into hematogenous (from the blood), contiguous spread (from the surrounding tissue), or direct inoculation ( bacteria being put on the bone). How to diagnose osteomyelitis? Depending on the cause …
Melanoma
What is melanoma? Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer originating from the melanocytes. Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin color. There are 4 main types of melanoma: acral lentiginous, lentigo maligna, superficial spreading, and nodular. The most common type of melanoma is superficial spreading and the most aggressive is nodular. What causes an melanoma? …
Osteochondral defect of talus (OCD/OLT)
What is an OCD of the talus? An ostechondral defect (OCD) is damage to to the cartilage and underlying bone of the talus causing ankle pain. The talus is a bone in the ankle joint that articulates with the tibia and fibula. What causes an OCD of the talus? Typically OCDs are caused by acute traumatic event such as an …
Hallux Rigidus/Hallux Limitus
Hallux rigidus (hallux limitus) What is Hallux rigidus? Hallux rigidus is the development of arthritis in the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint, which over time leads to limited range of motion and pain. Hallux rigidus is a progressive condition, so over time you will develop more joint stiffness and pain. What causes hallux rigidus? Typically hallux rigidus is caused by a biomechanical/structural …
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
What is shin splints? Shin splints is a common issue in people that run, especially in patients that suddenly increase their physical activity. Shin splint pain is localized the the medial part of the tibia where the muscles of anterior compartment originate. The pain is typically only during exercise and resolves with rest. What causes shin splints? The cause of …