L5 mononeuritis is a rare and often overlooked condition that can cause foot drop, a disorder characterized by difficulty lifting the front part of the foot. This condition occurs when the L5 nerve, located in the lower back, becomes inflamed or damaged. The L5 nerve plays a vital role in controlling the muscles responsible for foot movement, so when it is affected, it leads to weakness or paralysis in the foot and ankle. The primary causes of L5 mononeuritis include trauma, infections, or nerve compression, though it can also result from underlying conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases. Foot drop caused by this rare disorder can significantly impact mobility. If you have this problem, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to effectively manage this condition.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.