Items filtered by date: May 2023

The foot bones are responsible for the mobility of the body, in addition to providing mechanical support for the soft tissues. This is necessary to support the body’s weight while standing and moving. Three categories of bones are in each foot. The tarsals consist of seven bones that are located in the ankle area. The bones in the toes are known as phalanges and connect to the metatarsals, the third group of bones. Additionally, the foot is divided into three areas referred to as the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. Each part of the foot has different functions which work in unison to help you walk and run. The bones in the foot may break when enduring a stress fracture or from a sudden injury. If you would like additional information about the bones in the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from The Foot Institute. 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 Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Getting the correct shoe size requires trying shoes on and walking around to ensure they are comfortable. Measuring the feet with a Brannock device, often available in most shoe stores or departments, or outlining the feet on paper and cutting them out to have a pattern to be compared to shoes can also help. Other recommendations for ensuring proper shoe size include making sure there is a thumb’s worth of room between the tip of the toes and the front of the shoe and a finger’s worth of space between the heel and the back of the shoe to prevent unwanted friction and a host of resulting foot problems. Wearing the socks intended to be worn with shoes when trying them on and trying on shoes later in the day, when feet are at their largest, can help in getting the correct shoe size and fit. If insoles in new shoes are not substantial and do not provide adequate cushioning, they can be swapped out for those providing extra support and comfort. If you are having trouble finding the best shoe size for your feet and you often have foot discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you on your quest to find the right shoes.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from The Foot Institute. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon, the longest tendon in the body, connects the leg muscles with the heel. It allows you to walk, run, and jump. When the tendon becomes aggravated or inflamed, the condition is known as Achilles tendonitis. There are two types of Achilles tendonitis, insertional and non insertional. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower portion of the heel and can happen to anyone, whether they are active or not. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis is more typical among athletes and affects the middle portion of the tendon. The pain, caused by overstressing or overworking the tendon, is generally set off by a sudden change in the intensity of movement. Tight calf muscles and lack of flexibility, which may be brought on by aging, are other common factors. Overuse, often experienced by runners who increase speed, distance, or frequency too quickly, can bring on Achilles tendonitis. Heel pain is the main symptom felt by sufferers of this condition. To find out whether you have Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Institute. 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 Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Practicing proper safety measures in the workplace is crucial in preventing accidents. This can begin with foot safety and wearing the right shoes during the workday can help to accomplish this. It is beneficial to ensure the shoes worn are slip-resistant, constructed of durable materials, and have adequate arch support. Some jobs require extra foot protection. This can consist of wearing safety boots that have a steel tip. It is helpful to take breaks as often as possible, as this can provide an opportunity to rest and stretch the feet. As the feet are stretched, blood flow may be improved, which can help to prevent injuries and fatigue. Maintaining proper foot hygiene may help to prevent infections, and it is advantageous to inspect the feet for signs of irritation. If you would like more information about how to protect your feet during the workday, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you helpful tips.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from The Foot Institute. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people associate the foot condition that is known as flat feet with difficulty in running. Conversely, there are numerous professional sprinters and athletes who are flat-footed, and  this may provide a special ability that can help to absorb shock. When flat feet are strengthened, it may help an individual to run faster, in addition to possibly having more control on the surface. Research has shown there is a difference between running shoes that are designed for flat feet and shoes that have a high arch. Shoes that are made with an extra cushioned midsole area may be more beneficial for flat-footed runners to wear. There are specific stretches that can be performed which may help to strengthen the arch. If you have flat feet and are interested in running, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can teach you correct stretching techniques which may help you to improve your running practice.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from The Foot Institute. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Westside, Northeast, Eastside, and Northwest, El Paso, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.