Items filtered by date: October 2023

Foot drop, a condition that affects one foot and impedes the ability to walk normally, can stem from various causes. Most commonly, foot drop results from peroneal nerve injury, often linked to sports injuries or surgical incidents, like hip or knee replacements. Spinal problems, such as slipped discs, may also compress the peroneal nerve, as can prolonged leg crossing, kneeling, or squatting. Peripheral neuropathy from diabetes can damage nerves and weaken muscles, potentially leading to foot drop. Extended immobility, such as hospital stays, can cause muscle weakness, including those governing foot movement. The main symptom of foot drop is a marching gait that requires a higher lifting of the knee with each step to allow the toe to clear the ground. Addressing foot drop can involve customized exercise regimens to strengthen and stretch leg and foot muscles. Devices, including braces, splints, or shoe inserts may help to promote foot stability and reduce fall risks. Electrical nerve stimulation aids nerve activation, which may be beneficial for stroke or multiple sclerosis patients. Surgery may be considered in cases of permanent foot drop, involving joint fusion for stability or nerve repair and grafting to restore function. For a clear idea of how to manage foot drop, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. 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 our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As we age, it is helpful for our homes to be a sanctuary of comfort and safety. For the elderly, preventing falls is paramount to maintaining independence and overall well-being. Simple yet effective home preparations can make a world of difference. This can begin by decluttering living spaces and removing tripping hazards like loose rugs or cords. Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and along staircases to provide stability. Adequate lighting is important, ensuring that every corner is well-lit, regardless of day or night. Non-slip mats in the bathroom and a shower chair can reduce the risk of slips and falls during bathing. Regular maintenance is essential, so fix unstable floorboards, uneven tiles, or loose handrails promptly. Falling can seriously affect the feet, and may lead to difficulty in accomplishing daily activities. If you would like more information about how to protect your elderly loved ones from falling in the household, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional effective fall-prevention tips.

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 Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. 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:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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 offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Excessive foot sweating, known as focal hyperhidrosis, is a common but distressing condition. It involves uncontrollable sweating of the feet even when not hot or physically active. Treatments can help manage its impact. Normal sweating occurs when you are hot, exercising, anxious, or nervous, as the nervous system triggers sweat glands to cool the body. Medical conditions, including diabetes, menopause, thyroid problems, and nervous system disorders, can cause excessive sweating of the feet. Some medications may contribute to this as well. While excessive sweating itself does not harm health, it can significantly affect quality of life, causing emotional distress, skin conditions, and discomfort. Diagnosis involves a medical evaluation to rule out underlying causes. Treatment options can include medications, therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. Moderate relief can consist of keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing moisture-wicking socks made from breathable fabrics, and seeking emotional support if needed. If you suffer from excessively sweaty feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and treatment.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Troy Wilde, DPM of Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can greatly improve the quality of life for anyone with ankle pain and discomfort. This procedure involves making small cuts around the ankle and looking inside the incisions with an arthroscope to identify and correct issues. Recovery time can vary from person to person, but generally, patients can expect a few weeks to a couple of months for a full recovery. The first week or two may involve some discomfort and limited mobility. Most patients can resume driving within a few weeks after surgery, but it's important to consult with your podiatrist beforehand. Returning to work and sports activities may take longer, often between four to eight weeks or more, depending on the nature of your job or the intensity of your sport.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels may be fashionable and elegant but often come at a painful cost for your feet. Several reasons contribute to the discomfort and pain associated with wearing high heels. Inflammation, pain, and calluses can be caused by excessive pressure as the body weight is forced onto the balls of the feet. Additionally, posture may be affected, as wearing high heels can tilt the body forward. This can lead to strained muscles in the arches. Foot conditions such as bunions and hammertoes may develop as pointed-toe high heels can compress the toes. Many people who frequently wear high heels develop a shortened Achilles tendon that may lead to stress on the overall foot and leg. If you have questions or concerns about the effects of high heels and the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.