Items filtered by date: June 2024

Foot pronation is a natural movement where the foot rolls inward during walking or running to absorb shock and adapt to surfaces. However, when this inward roll becomes excessive, it leads to a condition known as overpronation. It can result from flat feet or wearing improper footwear, causing the arch to collapse inward excessively. This misalignment may then lead to plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and knee pain, as it puts strain on muscles and tendons in the foot and lower leg. Conversely, underpronation, or supination, occurs when the foot does not roll inward enough, often seen in individuals with high arches. Underpronation can contribute to problems such as ankle sprains due to inadequate shock absorption. A podiatrist can identify both overpronation and underpronation by examining wear patterns on shoes and assessing gait mechanics. Treatment options include custom orthotics, specific exercises, or footwear adjustments to restore proper foot function and prevent future complications. If you have either of these conditions, It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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.

Achilles tendon ruptures are a significant injury that can often affecting athletes engaged in high-impact sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis. This injury happens when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone tears, typically during a sudden acceleration, jump, or change in direction. The rupture results in immediate pain, swelling, and an inability to push off the foot or stand on tiptoe. Risk factors include inadequate warm-up, tight calf muscles, and previous tendonitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are important and may include surgical repair for optimal recovery. Preventative measures, such as regular stretching, strengthening exercises, and wearing appropriate footwear, can reduce the risk of an Achilles tendon rupture. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can successfully treat an Achilles tendon injury.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida. 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 our offices located in North Miami, and Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the top of the foot can be a troubling and uncomfortable experience that affects mobility and impedes daily activities. This type of pain can result injuries, overuse, inflammatory conditions, or structural abnormalities. One common cause is extensor tendonitis, which occurs when the tendons on the top of the foot become inflamed due to repetitive movements or excessive strain. Additionally, stress fractures in the metatarsal bones, often caused by overtraining or sudden increases in activity level, can lead to sharp, localized pain in the top of the foot. Other causes include conditions like arthritis, nerve compression, or wearing tight footwear that puts pressure on the top of the foot. Identifying the underlying cause of pain in the top of the foot is essential for determining appropriate treatment methods, which may include rest, supportive footwear, or medical intervention. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can identify the cause and offer effective treatment methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot 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 care needs.

A fractured ankle can significantly disrupt daily life, particularly impacting employment. This type of injury often requires an extended period of immobilization, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process to restore full functionality. The inability to walk or stand for prolonged periods can make it challenging to perform job duties, especially in physically demanding roles. Consequently, high rates of unemployment and disability are observed among those with severe ankle fractures. The disruption stems from the need for rest and restricted movement to ensure proper healing, which can lead to extended absences from work. Additionally, the pain and swelling associated with a fractured ankle can hinder mobility and productivity. Without adequate treatment and rehabilitation, complications such as chronic pain, instability, and arthritis may develop, further delaying recovery and complicating return-to-work plans. If you have suffered an ankle fracture, it is strongly suggested that you receive a comprehensive treatment plan from a podiatrist to recover efficiently and return to work as quickly as possible.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.