The way you walk can affect the health of your feet and other parts of the body. If your foot rolls outward when you walk it puts extra pressure on the outside of the feet. This action is termed supination, and it can induce pain as well as increase the chance of injury. Supination is thought to be caused by having a high arch and can be worsened if your footwear does not offer the proper support. Pain from supination can be felt in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. It also increases the chances of sprains, strains, and shin splints. It has been found that certain orthotics can help to overcome this gait abnormality.  Features that can help reduce the pain include arch support to keep the foot from rolling outward, a deep heel cup to help stabilize the heel, and extra cushioning for the foot. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can examine your feet and create custom orthotics that will help counteract the problems of supination.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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 Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people who play pickleball love to win. They may work hard at perfecting their sport and unfortunately, their feet may pay the price. The heel of the foot is commonly affected in pickleball players, which may be indicative of plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and is found on the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia may become torn and inflamed from consistently pushing off on the ball of the foot resulting in inflammation. Pickleball is a high-impact sport, and plantar fasciitis is often seen in pickleball players. It can be beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly and to ensure there is adequate cushioning in the heel area. Additionally, players may choose to wear custom-made orthotics, which may be effective in reducing heel pain. If you have tried these simple measures and still have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the exact cause and offer you various prevention techniques. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• 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 Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.