Items filtered by date: October 2024

Flat feet, or pes planus, is a common condition where the arches of the feet are either low or completely absent, causing the soles to make full contact with the ground. The causes of flat feet can vary widely, including genetic predisposition, muscle imbalances, and injuries that affect the ligaments and tendons. In some cases, flat feet can develop during childhood as the arches form, while others may experience it as adults due to wear and tear or medical conditions. There are two primary types of flat feet, which are known as flexible and rigid. Flexible flat feet are characterized by arches that appear when sitting but flatten when standing, usually causing minimal discomfort. Rigid flat feet maintain a flat appearance regardless of position and can lead to pain and difficulty with movement. Flat feet can cause pain and discomfort. If you have this condition, iti is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief tips, and guide you on what type of shoes to wear.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 our office located in Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous band that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It enables you to walk, run, and jump. When overstressed, the Achilles tendon can tear or rupture. This causes a sharp pain at the back of the leg or ankle, often accompanied by a snapping sound. Patients may experience trouble standing on their toes, walking, or climbing the stairs. Swelling and bruising surrounding the ankle or foot are other symptoms. Achilles tendon injuries commonly occur during sports involving sudden directional changes, such as basketball or tennis. A diagnosis is usually made through a physical exam, but imaging, like an MRI scan, may be required. Treatment varies based on the severity and may involve a splint, boot, or surgery. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of the Achilles tendon injury and recommend a treatment plan to promote proper healing and prevent re-injury. If you have ruptured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. 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 office located in Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing high heels can significantly alter foot biomechanics, leading to various issues over time. The elevated position of the heel shifts body weight forward, increasing pressure on the forefoot and contributing to the development of bunions. This misalignment forces the big toe to deviate, causing painful deformities. Additionally, high heels can result in ankle inversion injuries, as the instability and lack of support increase the risk of rolling the ankle during movement. Prolonged wear can also lead to osteoarthritis, particularly in the joints of the feet, due to the excessive strain placed on them. Understanding these potential consequences is essential for people who frequently wear high heels. If you have developed a foot condition from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment methods and guide you on choosing different shoe options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Shoe orthotics are custom insoles designed to support and align the feet, improving overall comfort and function. There are several signs that may indicate the need for orthotics. Persistent foot pain, especially after physical activities, can signal an underlying issue. If you experience discomfort in your heels, arches, or toes, it may be time to consider orthotics. Additionally, frequently feeling fatigued or noticing changes in your walking pattern, such as limping or uneven wear on your shoes, can be indicators. People with certain conditions, like flat feet or plantar fasciitis, often benefit from orthotic support. If you have chronic foot pain or minor discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if custom orthotics are right for you.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

The foot and ankle consist of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, forming a complex structure that provides support, balance, and mobility. Key joints include the ankle joint where the tibia, fibula, and talus meet, the subtalar joint allowing side-to-side motion, and the midfoot joints, which contribute to arch flexibility. Biomechanics of the foot and ankle are critical, as they impact walking, running, and overall posture. Improper alignment or function in these joints can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or osteoarthritis, affecting movement and increasing stress on the knees, hips, and lower back. Proper foot care, wearing supportive footwear, and orthotics can help maintain good biomechanics, reduce pain, and prevent injuries. It is suggested that you include regular check-ups with a podiatrist in your health care routine to catch potential problems early, ensuring long-term foot health.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle. 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 Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.