Items filtered by date: October 2024

Foot bone anatomy is essential for understanding how the foot supports movement and balance. The foot is divided into three main sections, which are the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. The hindfoot consists of the talus and calcaneus, or heel bone, which play a critical role in weight bearing and shock absorption during walking and running. The midfoot comprises five tarsal bones that provide flexibility and stability, allowing for efficient movement. The forefoot includes the metatarsals and phalanges, which are vital for balance and propulsion. Together, these sections work in harmony to absorb impact, support the body, and facilitate walking, running, and jumping. A strong understanding of foot bone anatomy helps in identifying potential issues and developing effective treatment strategies for foot-related problems. If you have developed a foot condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot problems.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that primarily affects the feet. It often starts with feelings of tingling, burning, or numbness. Over time, the damage to nerves can lead to decreased sensitivity. This makes it harder to notice cuts, blisters, or sores, which can later become infected if untreated. The lack of sensation from diabetic neuropathy can also alter how you walk, increases the risk of injuries, or may result in formation of foot ulcers. Untreated foot infections can worsen and may even lead to gangrene or limb loss. A podiatrist plays a key role in helping patients with diabetic neuropathy. This foot doctor can identify early symptoms, treat foot complications, and provide strategies to protect the feet from further damage. Regular checkups, foot exams, and proper foot care routines are essential for maintaining foot health and preventing serious issues. If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for exams and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Intrinsic foot strengthening exercises can play a vital role in alleviating foot and ankle pain, particularly in cases of flat feet. These exercises focus on the small muscles within the foot that support the arch and improve overall stability. One simple yet effective exercise is toe curls, where you use your toes to scrunch a towel or pick up small objects. Another is arch lifts, which involve lifting the arch of the foot while keeping the heel and toes on the ground. A third helpful exercise is the short foot exercise, which strengthens the muscles by attempting to shorten the foot while keeping the toes and heel planted. Regularly performing these exercises can enhance foot strength and support the arch. If you have a foot or ankle condition that causes pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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