Our feet and ankles are marvels of engineering, combining intricate structures to support our weight and facilitate movement. The remarkable anatomy of the foot consists of 26 bones, comprising the tarsal, metatarsal, and phalangeal bones, forming arches that provide stability and flexibility. Ligaments connect these bones, acting like tough rubber bands to hold the structure together. Meanwhile, muscles and tendons play a crucial role in moving the foot and toes. The ankle joint forms where the lower leg meets the foot, connecting the tibia and fibula to the talus bone. Ligaments here ensure stability, while the Achilles tendon at the back enables powerful movements, such as running and jumping. Understanding the intricate web of bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons in your feet and ankles can help you appreciate their importance. If you would like additional knowledge about the biomechanics of the feet and ankles, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right footwear helps to maintain foot health and prevent injuries. To make an informed choice, it's essential to understand the differences between walking and running shoes. For walkers, experts recommend lightweight shoes with extra shock absorption in the heel and under the ball of the foot. These features help reduce heel pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot. Some walkers prefer shoes with a rounded or rocker bottom, allowing for a smooth weight shift from heel to toe. Runners, however,  should prioritize overall shock absorption and torsional strength in their shoes to guard against injuries like tendonitis, heel pain, and stress fractures. Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can cause or worsen issues such as toe pain, corns, bunions, ingrown toenails, and postural problems. Inappropriate shoes can also contribute to joint pain and stress caused by arthritis. If you have particular foot or ankle issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help in finding the right shoes for your walking or running experience.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a cluster of inherited genetic disorders that impact the peripheral nervous system. These neuropathies disrupt the intricate network responsible for movement and sensation within the extremities, including the feet. The peripheral nervous system serves as a communication bridge between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease results in a range of symptoms that interfere with this process and dramatically influence foot health. Gradual muscle wasting in the feet and legs is a hallmark of this disease, causing increasing weakness and reduced control over time. This frequently leads to difficulties in mobility and balance. It also can result in high foot arches, known as pes cavus, and clawed toes. These structural changes can further impede proper foot function and comfort. An altered gait, often high-stepping, and a slapping sound when walking are only some of the common symptoms. Poor balance and a risk of falling are others, caused by weakened muscles and loss of sensation. Although there is no cure, it is possible to manage foot-related challenges and potentially slow down the progression of the disease. For guidance, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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