Items filtered by date: May 2023

Tuesday, 30 May 2023 00:00

Complex Foot Anatomy

One of the functions of the feet is providing mobility and supporting the weight of the body. The feet are considered to be one of the most complex structures in the body, and are constructed of 26 bones, several muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There are numerous foot conditions which can develop from enduring an injury, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. There are several types of bones that are found in each foot. These are referred to as the phalanges, which are the bones in the toes, and the metatarsals that are found within the flat part of the foot. All the foot bones work in synchronized harmony, and most people are unaware until there is foot pain. An injury can occur to parts of the foot other than the bones. A ligament is defined as a strong tissue that connects the bones together. An injured ligament may require a longer recovery time as a result of limited blood flow. If you would like to have additional knowledge about how the feet are constructed, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00

High Heels and Morton’s Neuroma

A compressed or irritated growth that is found between the third and fourth toes can represent a foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It is considered to be benign, despite how painful it can be. Wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely can be a common cause for this condition to occur. High heels fit into this category, and women who frequently wear this type of shoe may be affected. People who are afflicted with this ailment often feel they have a small pebble in their shoe or sock, typically on the ball of the foot. This part of the foot is used for standing and walking, which can cause constant pain. Patients who notice the beginning signs of Morton’s neuroma may find temporary relief when better shoes are worn. For more severe cases, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with permanent relief solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Eugene Little, DPM of Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

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A bunion is easy to notice. It is a hard bump on the side of the big toe and will get larger if steps are not taken to reduce it. A bunion generally occurs from wearing shoes that have little room in the toe area, such as high heels. Frequently wearing these types of shoes may cause the other toes to shift together. Corns and calluses may form on top of the toes as they touch the shoe. Bunions can also happen from genetic reasons, or from existing arthritis. The symptoms that are commonly associated with bunions can include pain and stiffness in the big toe, and the gait, or walking style can be affected. Temporary relief may be found when shoes are purchased to accommodate the bunion. Some people find it can help to wear a protective pad on top of the bunion, in addition to taking over-the-counter pain medicine. If you have developed this type of foot condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent relief.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Eugene Little, DPM of Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

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Friday, 12 May 2023 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 09 May 2023 00:00

Health Benefits of Walking

Walking is something nearly everyone learns to do as a child. As an adult, however, it is easy to ignore walking as a beneficial type of exercise. In fact, walking is an aerobic and cardio exercise that can increase strength, improve cardiovascular health, and even help you lose weight. Experts identify five types of walking that can lower blood pressure, increase energy, improve blood flow, and just plain make you feel better. Included are race or Olympic walking, brisk walking, Nordic or pole walking, speed walking, and Chi walking. Each of these walking styles differs somewhat in distance, speed, and other considerations, such as using poles. Probably the most accessible for someone starting out is brisk walking, mainly because there are few rules involved and it is easy to do with a friend. Brisk walking is done at a conversational pace and should not cause shortness of breath. Activating the core muscles is essential to proper walking in any form and also helps to reduce the chance of injury to other body parts. For more information about the benefits of walking as an exercise, 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 Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. 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 Sidney, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 02 May 2023 00:00

Why Do I Have Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels is a foot condition that is more common than many people think. It can happen for various reasons, such as wearing shoes that do not fit correctly and drinking inadequate amounts of water daily. Walking barefoot, in addition to frequently wearing flip-flops or other open-back shoes, may also lead to developing cracked heels. Existing medical conditions, consisting of diabetes, psoriasis, or athlete’s foot, may lead to getting this condition. Obesity may be a reason cracked heels can develop, which can be a result of added weight the body must bear. This is also true of pregnancy, causing cracked heels and swollen feet to happen. Research has shown there may be nutritional deficiencies that can cause this uncomfortable condition, including calcium, iron, and vitamin E. Mild relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer. If you would like additional relief options for cracked heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Eugene Little, DPM from Foot and Ankle Centers of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

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