$Unique_ID{BRK01155}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases, Musculoskeletal System and
Connective Tissue}
$Title{Have You Ever Heard of "Deutschland" Disease?}
$Subject{fracture march Deutschlaender}
$Volume{N-17, M-17}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Have You Ever Heard of "Deutschland" Disease?


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QUESTION:  Another puzzler for your seemingly inexhaustible knowledge of
medical trivia.  Have you ever heard of "Deutschland" disease?  Does the name
imply that it is a condition found mostly in Germans?  I have a personal
reason for asking this question but my own research has been totally
unsuccessful.  Can you help?

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ANSWER:  This condition is not named after the country or its inhabitants but
the doctor, Dr. C.W. Deutschlaender who first described the ailment in 1921.
Also known as "March Foot" or "March Fracture" it is a stress fracture of the
second or third metatarsal, with the formation of a bone callus around the
fracture.  Its symptoms are a mild, persistent pain in the foot which comes on
after walking or running.  There is tenderness on the bottom of the foot and a
lump can be felt in the area of the fracture.  A period of rest can help but
check your running shoes (yes?) for fit and change the brand if necessary.  I
suspect you are already under proper medical care, and strongly advise that
you follow your physician's instructions to the letter.  Your prognosis is
excellent if you give your foot a much deserved rest.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
