Footwear plays a significant role in foot biomechanics, influencing how your body moves and functions. High heels, for example, shift weight forward, altering the natural alignment of the spine and increasing pressure on the forefoot. This can lead to discomfort and long-term issues such as bunions or plantar fasciitis. On the other hand, flip flops offer minimal support, allowing the foot to overextend with each step, which can result in instability and strain on the muscles and ligaments. Lack of arch support in flip flops can worsen conditions like flat feet. Understanding how different types of footwear affect your biomechanics helps in making informed choices. Selecting shoes that provide adequate support, cushioning, and alignment can significantly improve comfort and reduce the risk of injuries, promoting healthier movement patterns overall. If you have developed foot pain from wearing shoes that do not align with your foot structure, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you toward making correct shoe choices.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendinopathy is a an injury that affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This ailment typically arises from overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon, often seen in athletes who engage in activities like running or jumping. It can also develop from sudden increases in physical activity or improper footwear. Symptoms usually include pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, which may worsen with activity and improve with rest. The pain is often felt in the lower part of the calf or directly above the heel. Swelling and tenderness in the affected area are also common. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis to determine the type of injury and offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Lymphedema in the feet occurs when lymph fluid builds up in the tissues, causing swelling. This condition results from a blockage or damage in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream. Lymphedema can be caused by infections, surgery, radiation treatment for cancer, or congenital conditions where the lymphatic system is underdeveloped. People at a higher risk include those who have undergone cancer treatments, have had lymph node removal, or suffer from chronic venous insufficiency. Treatment focuses on managing the swelling and improving lymph drainage. Compression therapy, such as wearing specialized stockings, is commonly used. Manual lymph drainage, a specialized massage technique used by a podiatrist, can help reduce swelling. If your feet are swollen and you are not clear on the cause, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors 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 Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Ingrown toenails are an often painful condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, typically affecting the big toe. This can lead to redness, swelling, and tenderness, with the potential for infection, if left untreated. The most frequent cause of ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming, particularly cutting nails too short or rounding the edges, which encourages the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes can also contribute by putting excessive pressure on the toes. While anyone can develop an ingrown toenail, they are more prevalent among teenagers, athletes, and those with naturally curved or large nails. If there are signs of infection, medical treatment from a podiatrist is important. This medically trained foot doctor can provide expert treatment to relieve pain and fight off infections. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Discoloration of the feet in elderly adults, such as purple, black, or blue hues, often signals underlying health issues. These colors can result from bruising due to minor trauma or falls, which may be more common in those with fragile skin and weakened blood vessels. Poor circulation or conditions like peripheral artery disease can also cause the feet to appear discolored, as blood flow becomes restricted. Additionally, venous insufficiency can lead to the pooling of blood and subsequent color changes. In some cases, these symptoms might indicate more serious concerns, such as blood clots or infections. It is vital for elderly individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention from a podiatrist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. If you are elderly or caring for an elderly person, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can regularly monitor foot health.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.