Erythromelolgia is an episodic condition that affects and feet and sometimes the hands. Other body parts like faces, ears or the nose may be involved. It is usually bilateral but not always. There is burning pain, including severe redness and increased temperature in the extremity during a flare. The increased temperature may be episodic or continual. Between episodes, the feet are normal in appearance and in examination. There can be early onset – the median age being 10. For adult onset, most cases first occur in the range of 50-60 years.
During a flare
About five percent of those with EM have an inherited gene mutation that causes it; there are usually others in their families with the syndrome. The cause is unknown in the majority of cases. Peripheral neuropathies underlie many, and in some cases may be secondary to other disorders like the blood disease polycythemia (an abnormal increase in the number of circulating red blood cells). Pedorthists are involved in providing information about keeping feet as stable as possible and as cool as possible. Shoes that decrease impact are helpful in reducing the possibility of an episode caused just by walking.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Erythermalgia
- EM
- Gerhardt Disease, Mitchell Disease, Weir-Mitchell Disease
Symptoms:
- Intense burning pain, redness and increased temperature in the foot
- May be bilateral or unilateral
- Episodes triggered by heat, exercise
Signs to look for:
- Intense burning pain, redness and increased temperature in the foot
- May be bilateral or unilateral
Possible Causes:
- Genetic mutation
- Vasomotor abnormalities
- Normal narrowing and widening of the diameter of certain blood vessels
- May be secondary to various underlying disorders
Goals:
- Reduce impact while walking
- Increase stability to reduce shearing and heat production in shoes
- Decrease temperature inside shoes
- Reduce possibility of secondary infection from moisture and heat
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth shoes, double or triple depth shoes with firm heel counter, connecting shank rocker sole and high toe box
- Smart footwear, preferably made with mesh, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear pumps or heels on a minimal basis only
Other:
- Medical treatment as necessary
- Copper, bamboo or silver socks that wick moisture away from the skin and prevent infection
- Cool feet down with fans and cool wraps, not ice or ice water during episodes
- Elevate feet during episodes
Activities:
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Erythromelalgia.org Text: Erythromelalgia.org, Emedicine.com, WebMD.com