There is a complex interplay of structures in the feet that provide stability, balance, and propulsion during walking and other activities. Bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons work together in the feet to move the body biomechanically. Assessing normal foot biomechanics helps podiatrists, or foot doctors, diagnose and treat various foot issues. By using their knowledge of normal foot biomechanics, podiatrists can identify abnormalities or dysfunctions that may contribute to foot problems, such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, or plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists may analyze a patient's gait, foot structure, and range of motion. This allows them to develop personalized treatment plans that may include orthotic devices, exercises, footwear modifications, or other interventions to address underlying biomechanical issues. If you are suffering with abnormalities in gait, range of motion, or the feet in general, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Charles Perry, DPM from 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 offices located in Cambridge and Zanesville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries encompass various conditions affecting the Achilles tendon, the large tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Tendonitis involves inflammation of the tendon due to overuse or repetitive stress, causing pain and swelling along the back of the lower leg or above the heel. Tendinosis refers to chronic degeneration of the Achilles tendon, often resulting from untreated or recurrent tendonitis. This condition may manifest as persistent pain and stiffness in the affected area. Paratenonitis affects the outer layer of the tendon, causing pain and swelling around the tendon rather than within it. Insertional Achilles tendinitis occurs at the point where the tendon inserts into the heel bone, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes the formation of a bony bump. Treatment may involve rest, anti-inflammatory medications, custom-made orthotic devices, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to repair or remove damaged tissue. If you suffer from Achilles pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a treatment plan tailored to your condition and the severity of the injury.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Charles Perry, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor 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 Cambridge and Zanesville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Good foot hygiene is an important part of overall health and involves several key practices. Daily foot care should include washing your feet with soap and water to remove dirt and bacteria, and thoroughly drying them afterward to prevent fungal infections. Applying moisturizer can help keep the skin from becoming dry and cracked. Nails should be trimmed straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown toenails and infections. A daily inspection of your feet for any cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling can help to catch potential problems early, especially for those with diabetes or circulation issues. It is also important to keep your shoes clean on the inside and outside. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, enhance these daily practices by providing professional assessment and treatment of any foot issues. Podiatrists can offer advice tailored to your specific foot health needs and create plans to maintain overall foot wellness. To help support your foot health and overall quality of life, make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Charles Perry, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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