Kohler’s Disease is a rare condition that affects the foot bones. It is mainly seen in children under the age of 10 years. This disease occurs due to the spontaneous loss of blood supply to a specific bone in the foot. The affected bone can take a year or more to fully recover, which can cause discomfort for the patient during that period. However, with proper diagnosis and timely treatment, the symptoms can be managed effectively.
Symptoms:
The most common symptom of Kohler’s Disease is pain in the affected foot. This pain can be felt while walking or standing for a prolonged period. The foot may also appear swollen, red or warm to touch. Some patients may also have difficulty walking or may develop a limp due to the pain.
Causes:
Kohler’s Disease occurs when there is a decrease or loss of blood supply (ischemia) to a particular bone in the foot. This can happen due to a blockage or compression of blood vessels that supply the bone. However, the exact cause of this disease is still unknown.
Diagnosis:
To diagnose Kohler’s Disease, a physical examination of the foot is performed by a podiatrist or orthopedic doctor. The doctor may also ask for an X-ray of the affected foot to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may also be needed to get a better view of the bone.
Treatment:
The treatment for Kohler’s Disease focuses on reducing pain and promoting healing. In mild cases, rest and decreased activities may be recommended along with the use of over-the-counter pain-relieving medications. In more severe cases, a cast or a boot may be required to immobilize the foot and reduce stress on the affected bone. Foot orthotics or inserts may also be recommended to improve foot function and ease the pain.
In rare cases where the damage is severe, surgery may be required to remove the damaged tissue or bone. However, this is usually the last resort since surgery can have its own complications.
Prevention:
As the cause of Kohler’s Disease is still uncertain, there are no known ways to prevent it. However, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to avoid chronic conditions that can lead to poor bone health.
Conclusion:
If you or a loved one is experiencing pain in the foot, it is important to seek medical attention from a podiatrist or orthopedic doctor. Dr Gilbert Huang DPM is a specialist in foot and ankle care who can help diagnose and treat Kohler’s Disease. With proper diagnosis and timely treatment, the symptoms of Kohler’s Disease can be effectively managed.