As children grow, their gait, or the way they walk, develops in stages that reflect both physical and neurological maturity. It is normal for toddlers to walk with their feet wide apart or appear a bit unsteady at first. Over time, their coordination improves, and their stride becomes more fluid. However, certain patterns like frequent tripping, toe-walking, or limping may signal developmental concerns that should not be overlooked. Early identification of gait abnormalities can help prevent future discomfort or mobility challenges. A child’s foot structure, muscle tone, and even leg alignment all play a role in how they move. Paying attention to how your child walks, runs, and stands can provide early clues to potential issues that may benefit from professional guidance. If you notice irregularities in your child’s gait or foot development, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an exam and necessary treatment.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Running places significant stress on the feet and toes, making them prone to injury, especially over long distances or running downhill. One common issue is runner’s toe, medically known as a subungual hematoma, which develops when the toenail repeatedly strikes the inside of your shoe. This can lead to bleeding beneath the nail, resulting in changes in nail color, pain, and sometimes nail loss. Poorly fitting running shoes, tight socks, and heat-induced foot swelling can increase the risk. The big toe is most often affected, but the second through fifth toes may also suffer damage from shoe pressure or toe-on-toe friction. In some cases, the nail becomes thick, loose, or may fall off entirely. Repeated trauma may also lead to fungal infection or nail deformity. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the injury and determine if the nail bed or bone has been affected. Treatment includes draining any fluid buildup or in some cases removing the damaged nail. If you have problematic or painful toes that impede your running activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Blisters are fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin due to friction, heat, or cold. They commonly develop on the feet as the result of running, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Blisters caused by friction typically appear as raised, clear bubbles of fluid on the skin, while those caused by heat or cold may be accompanied by redness, swelling, or pain. Symptoms include a painful, tender area where the skin has been damaged. Blisters from heat can occur from burns, while cold blisters may form due to frostbite or prolonged exposure to cold surfaces. The pain can range from mild to intense, especially when pressure is applied. A podiatrist can help by providing proper treatment, such as draining the blister, if necessary, dressing it to prevent infection, and advising on how to avoid future blisters. They can also offer guidance on selecting the right footwear. If you have painful blisters on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
