Unexpected Discoveries in Podiatry
Dr. Jeffrey Hurless, a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon at Neuhaus Foot & Ankle in Nashville, vividly recalls a young patient who came in with a painful blister on his big toe. As Hurless began to remove the blister’s top layer, a surprising event occurred. A plastic toothpick shot out from the boy’s foot with such force that it flew over Hurless’s shoulder and hit the wall. The boy then remembered stepping on something days earlier, but he hadn’t realized what it was.
These unexpected moments are what make Hurless’s work intriguing. They provide a break from routine cases like foot warts and bunions. Hurless enjoys the challenge of removing foreign objects, finding it rewarding for both himself and his patients.
Common Foreign Objects Found in Feet
Dr. Patrick McEneaney from Northern Illinois Foot and Ankle Specialists frequently encounters foreign objects in patients’ feet. His removals have included fragments of fine china, fishing hooks, needles, metal shavings, and even a dead mouse. Recently, he treated a patient with mysterious foot pain. After exploratory surgery, he discovered a skunk hair embedded in the foot, a result of the patient’s work with animal control.
Dr. Julie Schottenstein, a podiatrist in South Florida, regularly treats patients with foreign bodies in their feet. In Florida, where people often go barefoot, threats like sea urchin spines and palm fronds are common. Schottenstein has removed several venomous sea urchin spines, which can cause tissue death and require surgical intervention to prevent infection.
The Risks of Hair Splinters and Other Intruders
Hair splinters, whether from humans or animals, can be surprisingly painful. Schottenstein often asks patients if they have pets, especially wire-haired dogs, which are prone to causing these issues. The sharp, tapered ends of their fur can pierce the skin like needles.
If you suspect a foreign object in your foot, it’s crucial not to attempt removal at home. Self-treatment can lead to infection and complications. Instead, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. They will take a thorough history, conduct an exam, and possibly use X-rays to locate the object. The removal process typically involves using a scalpel to isolate the object and fine forceps to extract it.
When to Seek Professional Help
In some cases, foreign objects don’t need removal if they’re not causing discomfort. McEneaney recalls a patient with a BB in his foot from childhood, and Hurless once treated someone with a drill bit piece in her foot for 20 years. If the object is deep and not bothersome, it may be best left alone.
Children often experience foot pain without recalling the cause. McEneaney shares an instance of an 18-month-old with a chicken bone in his foot, unnoticed by the parents. People with diabetes are also at risk due to potential nerve damage, which can prevent them from feeling objects in their feet.
Preventive Measures for Foot Safety
To avoid foreign objects in your feet, wearing shoes is essential, especially outdoors. Sandals don’t provide enough protection during activities like lawn work. Keeping floors clean and thoroughly cleaning up broken glass can also prevent injuries. Regular foot inspections are advisable, especially after spending time outside. Schottenstein recommends using a flashlight and mirror to check the soles of your feet at night.
By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of painful intruders in your feet and maintain better foot health.
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🔗 **Fuente:** https://time.com/7287613/objects-found-in-feet-podiatrists/