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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 John Horlebein, DPM from Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Chelan, WA . 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 John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Treatment for hammertoe, a condition where the toe bends abnormally, varies depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment can range from non-invasive approaches to surgical intervention. Initially, a podiatrist may recommend conservative methods, such as wearing roomier, more comfortable shoes to accommodate the deformity and using custom orthotic devices to relieve pain. Stretching exercises may also be recommended to strengthen toe muscles and improve flexibility. For more persistent cases, where the toe becomes rigid or pain is severe, surgical options may be considered. Surgery aims to straighten the toe, and this may involve removing a portion of the bone or realigning the tendons and ligaments. Post-surgery, patients often go through some rehabilitation to restore function and mobility. Consulting with a podiatrist about hammertoe is suggested to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs. 

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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