Items filtered by date: October 2023

Foot drop, a condition that affects one foot and impedes the ability to walk normally, can stem from various causes. Most commonly, foot drop results from peroneal nerve injury, often linked to sports injuries or surgical incidents, like hip or knee replacements. Spinal problems, such as slipped discs, may also compress the peroneal nerve, as can prolonged leg crossing, kneeling, or squatting. Peripheral neuropathy from diabetes can damage nerves and weaken muscles, potentially leading to foot drop. Extended immobility, such as hospital stays, can cause muscle weakness, including those governing foot movement. The main symptom of foot drop is a marching gait that requires a higher lifting of the knee with each step to allow the toe to clear the ground. Addressing foot drop can involve customized exercise regimens to strengthen and stretch leg and foot muscles. Devices, including braces, splints, or shoe inserts may help to promote foot stability and reduce fall risks. Electrical nerve stimulation aids nerve activation, which may be beneficial for stroke or multiple sclerosis patients. Surgery may be considered in cases of permanent foot drop, involving joint fusion for stability or nerve repair and grafting to restore function. For a clear idea of how to manage foot drop, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. 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 our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As we age, it is helpful for our homes to be a sanctuary of comfort and safety. For the elderly, preventing falls is paramount to maintaining independence and overall well-being. Simple yet effective home preparations can make a world of difference. This can begin by decluttering living spaces and removing tripping hazards like loose rugs or cords. Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and along staircases to provide stability. Adequate lighting is important, ensuring that every corner is well-lit, regardless of day or night. Non-slip mats in the bathroom and a shower chair can reduce the risk of slips and falls during bathing. Regular maintenance is essential, so fix unstable floorboards, uneven tiles, or loose handrails promptly. Falling can seriously affect the feet, and may lead to difficulty in accomplishing daily activities. If you would like more information about how to protect your elderly loved ones from falling in the household, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional effective fall-prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout, often associated with older, overweight men who indulge in rich food and excessive alcohol, is increasingly affecting younger individuals. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid, or urate in the bloodstream. Urate crystals can develop in joints, causing intense and sudden pain, most commonly in the big toe. While gout is more commonly associated with older age, it can affect people of all ages, including young adults and even teenagers. Several factors can increase the risk of developing gout at a younger age, including a family history of gout, consuming a diet high in purine-rich foods, or being overweight. It can also affect people who have certain medical conditions, or who take specific medications. Treatment involves managing acute attacks by taking anti-inflammatory drugs, and urate-lowering medication may be used for long-term prevention. Dietary changes, including avoiding alcohol, may help to prevent gout. If you are a younger person and are experiencing symptoms of gout in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition and provide the correct treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Active kids take about 20,000 steps a day, making the choice of shoes important for their foot health. Conventional shoes can distort natural foot structures, leading to musculoskeletal issues over time. Adult feet and conventional adult shoes share a similar shape, which is not a coincidence. Many foot problems, such as bunions and heel pain, that are seen in western societies are rare in cultures where people walk mostly barefoot. This may suggest that certain footwear affects foot shape negatively. Parents can opt for children’s shoes that are widest at the toes, flat, lightweight, and have flexible soles. Avoid arch support or pronation control features as these can interfere with natural foot development. It is also acceptable to allow your child to walk barefoot occasionally, as feet are adaptable. However, always be cautious about unsafe surfaces. Making these simple choices can contribute to the healthy development of your child’s feet. If you want to make sure that your child’s feet have the best chance of developing healthfully, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and discussion on how to best do this.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures, although often seen as minor injuries, can lead to significant discomfort and prolonged recovery if not addressed properly. Understanding the causes and seeking timely treatment are essential steps toward a smoother healing process. One of the primary causes of these hairline fractures is repetitive stress and overuse, particularly common among athletes and those engaged in high-impact activities. The constant pounding on the bones, such as during running, can weaken them over time, eventually resulting in a fracture. Insufficient rest between activities or abrupt increases in intensity or duration can increase the risk. Identifying stress fracture symptoms is important for early intervention. Pain, localized tenderness, and swelling are common signs, typically worsening with activity and subsiding with rest. Treatment often involves rest, immobilization with a brace or cast, and sometimes crutches are used to reduce weight-bearing. By recognizing the causes and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can recover from stress fractures more quickly and minimize the risk of recurrence. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and guide you toward the correct treatment options. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.