What is Morton's neuroma? Morton's neuroma is a swollen or thickened nerve in the ball of your foot. This can happen when your toes are squeezed together too often and for too long. This swelling can make it painful when you walk on that foot. High-heeled, tight, or narrow shoes can make pain worse. What are the...

What is an avulsion fracture? An avulsion fracture occurs when an injury causes a ligament or tendon to break off (avulse) a small piece of a bone that's attached to it. The ligament or tendon also may be damaged. This type of injury can happen in the hip, ankle, knee, heel, elbow, or pelvis. What can cause an avulsion...

What is lumbar spondylosis? Spondylosis is age-related change of the bones (vertebrae) and discs of the spine. These changes are often called degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis. When this condition is in the lower back, it's called lumbar spondylosis. These changes don't always cause symptoms. But they are a...

Tympanocentesis is the removal of fluid from behind the eardrum. The doctor uses a special needle with a tube attached to collect the sample of fluid. A culture and sensitivity test is usually done on the sample of fluid. Before the test, your child may get medicine to help relax. Or a doctor or nurse may apply medicine...

Educating yourself and your family about asthma is essential for you and your child to manage the condition. If you understand asthma, you will have an easier time following the different aspects of treatment, such as avoiding substances that cause...

Screening recommendations for an abdominal aortic aneurysm are different for men and women. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked should have a one-time ultrasound screening for an abdominal...

Topic guides reader through decision to get a pacemaker for heart rate problems. Provides general overview of what pacemakers are and what heart problems can be helped with pacemakers. Lists benefits and possible complications of getting a pacemaker.

Describes heart failure (congestive heart failure). Discusses common causes like hypertension and coronary artery disease. Has info on symptoms. Covers diagnostic tests and treatments. Discusses heart failure classification system and stages of CHF.