Items filtered by date: October 2024

Achieving proper running form is essential for enhancing performance and reducing the risk of injury, particularly when it comes to the feet and ankles. A key aspect of effective running is maintaining a midfoot strike, which helps to distribute impact evenly and minimize stress on the joints. Runners should aim to keep their feet directly beneath their bodies during each stride, promoting better alignment and balance. Additionally, maintaining a slight bend in the knees can prevent excessive strain on the ankles and feet. Strengthening the ankle muscles through exercises such as calf raises and ankle mobility drills can improve stability and support. Wearing proper footwear is also essential, as shoes should provide adequate cushioning and support based on individual foot mechanics. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you on techniques for proper running form.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. 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 office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is caused by an excess buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of sharp, needle-like crystals in the joints. Gout often affects the joint at the base of the big toe, resulting in sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. The affected area may feel warm, tender, and inflamed, making it difficult to put weight on the foot. These intense symptoms typically occur at night and can disrupt sleep. After the initial flare-up of gout, the extreme pain may subside, but discomfort and joint stiffness may persist for several days. Gout also may impact range of motion in the affected joint. Risk factors include a diet high in purine-rich foods, such as red meat and seafood, as well as excessive alcohol consumption and certain medications that raise uric acid levels. Other contributing factors include kidney disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters form when friction or pressure causes the outer layers of the skin to separate, leading to the formation of a small pocket of fluid. This often happens from wearing shoes that do not fit or from excessive walking or running, increasing the likelihood of skin irritation. Blisters act as the body’s natural defense, protecting the underlying skin while it heals. Wearing shoes that are too tight, damp socks, or having an irregular foot shape can increase the risk of blisters. While most blisters heal on their own, recurrent or painful blisters may signal an underlying issue. A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics or recommend footwear changes that can help to prevent further occurrences. For those with conditions like diabetes, a podiatrist’s guidance is especially important to prevent infections and ward off more serious complications. If you frequently have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out why.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunion correctors are popular devices designed to straighten the big toe and provide relief for people with bunions. While they may help reduce discomfort when worn, they have not yet been shown to be effective in permanently realigning the toe or eliminating the bunion. Some people report pain relief while using these devices, especially when walking or standing for extended periods. However, research is inconclusive about whether bunion correctors prevent further progression of bunions. At this point, surgery is the only proven method for removing bunions. Even so, it is typically reserved for cases causing significant pain or gait problems. A podiatrist can advise by prescribing custom orthotics, recommending changes in footwear, or performing surgery. If you have a problematic bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and suggested treatment options. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pediatric foot and ankle pain can arise from various factors, including skeletal maturity, minor trauma, repetitive stress, and abnormal biomechanics. As children grow, their bones and joints are still developing, which can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain due to changes in skeletal maturity. Minor trauma, such as a twist or bump, can also result in localized pain. Repetitive stress from activities like running or sports can strain growing tissues and cause discomfort. Abnormal biomechanics, including issues like flat feet or improper foot alignment, can contribute to chronic pain and discomfort. Addressing these causes with appropriate interventions, such as proper footwear and medical evaluation, is essential for managing symptoms. If your child has foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from ABC Podiatry. 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 office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.