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The foot bones are responsible for the mobility of the body, in addition to providing mechanical support for the soft tissues. This is necessary to support the body’s weight while standing and moving. Three categories of bones are in each foot. The tarsals consist of seven bones that are located in the ankle area. The bones in the toes are known as phalanges and connect to the metatarsals, the third group of bones. Additionally, the foot is divided into three areas referred to as the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. Each part of the foot has different functions which work in unison to help you walk and run. The bones in the foot may break when enduring a stress fracture or from a sudden injury. If you would like additional information about the bones in the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact John M. Fanelly, DPM from Northeast Philadelphia. 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
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 Philadelphia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
For some seniors that have yet to retire, working in the office can present dangers to the health of their feet. For instance, as a senior gets older, they can become increasingly susceptible to suffering from falls or trips that can lead to foot conditions like fractures. There are certain steps that a senior might consider taking in their office to prevent falls or trips. Specifically, many workers might have extension cords and wires surrounding their desks. This can present a significant tripping hazard, making falls more likely. A senior worker might consider cleaning up the cords to minimize any potential tripping hazards. Additionally, a senior worker could possibly ensure that the floors in their office space are dry. In other words, having liquids on the floor can increase the likelihood of falls. If you are someone that is a senior and is still working in the office, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to learn more about fall prevention and the effect falling can have on the feet.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with John M. Fanelly, DPM from Northeast Philadelphia. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Philadelphia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Even novices to the field of podiatry might be familiar with what some people call a twisted ankle. But what exactly does it mean to twist one’s ankle? The answer is that twisting the ankle is another way to say that the foot is inverted or moved outwards in an awkward position. As a result of this, an individual might suffer an ankle sprain. The patient’s outer, or lateral, ligaments might be stretched past their natural point, contributing to the sprain. There are many common symptoms associated with a sprained ankle. For example, a person might experience pain, swelling, or bruising. Importantly, a sprained ankle is distinct from a broken ankle, which occurs when the ankle bone becomes fractured. If you are someone that is currently living with a twisted or sprained ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to schedule an appointment today.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact John M. Fanelly, DPM from Northeast Philadelphia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Philadelphia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There is a small percentage of people worldwide who are affected by the foot condition that is known as gout. It is a form of arthritis and can cause debilitating pain and discomfort. Gout occurs due to excess uric acid in the blood. The excess uric acid may be caused by eating foods with large amounts of purines. These can consist of shellfish, red meat, and sugary drinks. Gout may also occur from genetic reasons, and it may be more prevalent among men who are over 40 years old. The abundance of uric acid converts to crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe, and in addition to the pain, there may be swelling and redness. The range of motion in the toe may be temporarily reduced, and the pain may radiate to the other joints. Gout attacks may be prevented when healthy foods are eaten, including vegetables, whole grain foods, and dairy products that are low in fat. If you suffer from gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact John M. Fanelly, DPM from Northeast Philadelphia. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Philadelphia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Anyone who has walked a long distance in brand new shoes has probably encountered a blister or two. Blisters on the feet often form when shoes are too tight, socks are too thin, and feet are too moist. The main cause of a blister is friction. The skin on the feet can be irritated by rubbing against the inside of a shoe. This causes a reaction from the body to protect itself. The top layer of skin separates from the rest and allows serum to collect underneath, forming a cushion between the layers. Pain from a blister can be prevented by implementing a few easy measures. Changing the shoes to a wider toe box will allow the toes to move freely. If you plan to take a long walk or to exercise, try wearing socks with a double layer that helps provide ample cushioning. Antiperspirant foot sprays can help to keep excessive moisture from building up inside the shoes. Runners who are prone to developing blisters may wish to try using low friction insoles in their shoes. Finally, choose footwear which is made of more flexible materials to reduce friction. If you have developed a blister that will not heal, or if a blister has become infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact John M. Fanelly, DPM of Northeast Philadelphia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Philadelphia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
