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Over-pronation occurs when the foot rolls too far inward with each step, placing excess stress on the arch, ankle, and surrounding soft tissues. Instead of evenly distributing weight across the foot, the inward roll causes the inner edge of the foot and big toe to bear too much pressure. This can flatten the arch, limit shock absorption, and strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet and ankles. Over time, over-pronation may contribute to painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, heel pain, ankle sprains, and posterior tibial tendon problems. Over-pronation is often linked to flat feet, but can also develop from weak or imbalanced muscles, loose ligaments, or excessive flexibility in the foot and ankle. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait and foot posture, prescribe custom orthotics, recommend supportive bracing, or discuss surgery for severe cases. If you are experiencing foot pain, especially after activity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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 Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between an ankle sprain and a broken or fractured ankle. A sprain occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn, while a fracture occurs when a bone in the ankle is broken. Both injuries can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the affected ankle, although an ankle fracture is usually more painful than a sprain. Those who have sprained their ankle may feel a popping sensation at the time of injury and experience ankle instability and a reduced range of motion. Those who have broken their ankle can have trouble bearing weight on the foot and may notice a visible deformity in the ankle, especially in cases where the ankle is also dislocated. If you have symptoms of an ankle sprain or an ankle fracture, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Bursitis in the foot occurs when small fluid-filled sacs, called bursae, become irritated or inflamed. These sacs normally cushion bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction with every step. When overuse, wearing tight shoes, or repetitive pressure disrupts this balance, the bursae can swell and cause pain. Common sites include the heel, the ball of the foot, or around the big toe joint. Symptoms often include tenderness, swelling, and discomfort that worsens with walking or standing for long periods. Athletes and individuals who spend hours on their feet are more prone to foot bursitis, as are those with structural foot issues such as flat feet or bunions. Rest and wearing proper footwear can help ease mild cases, while more persistent bursitis may require medical treatments or targeted therapy. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and relief.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain and discomfort. The big toe is most commonly affected, and risk factors include improper trimming of the toenails, especially when nails are cut too short or rounded at the edges.  Wearing tight shoes that crowd the toes or frequent use of flip-flops, which allow too much motion and pressure, may also contribute. People with naturally curved or thickened toenails, as well as those with toe deformities or excessive foot sweating, are more prone to this problem. Ingrown toenails may lead to swelling, redness, infection, and difficulty walking, if not addressed promptly. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the condition, provide treatment to relieve pain, and, in advanced cases may perform surgery to correct the nail growth pattern. If you are experiencing pain from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Poor circulation in the feet occurs when blood flow is reduced, preventing tissues from receiving enough oxygen and nutrients. This condition can lead to discomfort and complications, if left untreated. Causes include peripheral artery disease, diabetes, smoking, and sitting for long periods of time. Symptoms may involve numbness, tingling, cold feet, swelling, or slow healing wounds. Risk factors include age, high cholesterol, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, identify underlying issues, and recommend treatments such as lifestyle changes, footwear guidance, or medical treatments to improve blood flow. If you are experiencing signs of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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