Blog posts of '2017' 'November'

A unique fracture of the calcaneus not found within any fracture classification.

I saw a unique fracture of the heel bone (calcaneus) this week that in 32 years of practice, I don’t believe I have ever seen before.  This fracture is not described in the most common fracture classifications, includi...

Is the Tinel’s sign a reliable diagnostic test?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome describes an entrapment of the posterior tibial nerve at the medial aspect of the ankle.  The posterior tibial nerve descends the leg and splits into three branches.

• First branch – supplies sensation to the plantar heel.  Als...

How does the skin blister and why does it happen?

The formation of a blister is a localized deposition of fluid, most commonly deep to the epidermis, the most superficial layer of skin.  Blistering can occur due to a direct insult to the skin such as friction, an acute temperature injury to the ski...

Patient choice – are there weight limits when using ex-fix?

External fixation (ex-fix) is often used as an adjunct to internal fixation when correcting rocker bottom flat foot due to Charcot arthropathy.  The reason that ex-fix is used is that the frame, or ex-fix device, can be used to carry weigh...