Have you noticed discoloration of your toenails? Have they become thickened or brittle? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection. For some, having a fungal nail can be embarrassing. Overcome your embarrassment, and get treated.
High arch pain, or pes cavus, occurs when the foot has an unusually high arch. This puts extra stress on the ball and heel of the foot. Common symptoms include pain, instability, and difficulty walking. Other issues include metatarsalgia, calluses, ankle arthritis, and Achilles tendonitis. High arch pain can be caused by neurological disorders, muscle imbalances, or previous injuries. A podiatrist can help by assessing the foot’s structure and offering treatments, such as custom orthotics and specialized footwear. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pain and improve foot function. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner 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 Hoover,Oneonta, and Munford, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that causes pain and stiffness in the heel and arch. Symptoms include heel pain, aching arches, foot discomfort, and stiffness that is worse in the morning or after long periods of standing. Causes include wearing improper footwear, biomechanical issues, weight gain, aging, or repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, which is the ligament that supports the arch of the foot. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can interfere with daily activities and mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide custom orthotics, recommend stretching and strengthening exercises, and develop a treatment plan to relieve pain. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Non-supportive shoes
Overpronation
Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hoover,Oneonta, and Munford, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Walking shoes and running shoes are designed with different purposes in mind. Walking shoes typically offer firmer soles, greater arch support, and a focus on heel-to-toe movement. Running shoes, on the other hand, provide more cushioning, flexibility, and shock absorption to handle the higher impact of running. Wearing the wrong type of shoe can lead to discomfort or injury, over time. A podiatrist can assess your gait, foot structure, and activity level to help you select the most appropriate footwear. If you experience foot pain or need guidance on proper shoes for walking or running, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on what type of shoes to wear for your desired activity.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hoover,Oneonta, and Munford, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
