Items filtered by date: March 2023

The onset of warm weather in many parts of the world may bring the desire to lose the shoes and walk barefoot. It can be interesting to look closely at the feet, which is often done during the day while the shoes are off. Each foot has 26 bones, several tendons, muscles, and ligaments that work together to make the foot move. The joints in the feet enable the bones to change position, and they are held together by portions of tissues that are stretched between the bones. The soles of the feet have thicker skin than the rest of the body, and they are designed to absorb the weight of the body. The various components of the feet work together to balance and support the body, in addition to providing the ability to move from place to place. If you would like additional information about how the feet are designed, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jeffrey Lerner from Palm Beach Podiatric Center. 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 Wellington and Boca Raton, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When you are ready to buy new shoes, it is important to keep function and comfort in mind. Fashion should be secondary. Tips for helping to pick out the right shoes for you include shopping for shoes later in the day as the feet expand as the day wears on, measuring your feet, and trusting your comfort level at the time of trying on the shoes. Well-fitting shoes will not need a break-in period to feel comfortable. Furthermore, bring the foot coverings you plan to wear with the new shoes to the store, make sure there is at least a half-inch between the longest toe and the end of the shoe, and pay attention to the width as well as the length of the shoes. If you have additional questions about purchasing the right shoes for your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can best direct you.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Jeffrey Lerner from Palm Beach Podiatric Center. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wellington and Boca Raton, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters are common foot injuries that often result from repeated friction of the toes against the inside of a stiff shoe. A blister formation is actually nature’s way of protecting the skin by separating its layers and allowing fluid to form in between them. This fluid is called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin from damage. Three main types of blisters are friction, blood, and heat blisters. There are a number of ways to prevent blisters, such as keeping your feet dry. This is especially useful for runners, who may need to invest in moisture-wicking socks. Another popular prevention method is to wear shoes that fit properly. They shouldn’t be too small, large, tight, or loose, as any of these conditions can contribute to blister formation. If you frequently notice blisters forming in one or more particular spots, try protecting that area with bandages or other coverings. And finally, when you start to feel a blister coming on, stop the activity. If your blister does not heal on its own or becomes infected, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for safe and antiseptic treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Jeffrey Lerner of Palm Beach Podiatric Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wellington and Boca Raton, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a condition that involves the feet. The medical name for this is known as Morton’s metatarsalgia or interdigital neuroma, and it affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. Wearing high heels that do not have adequate room in the toe area is the leading cause of Morton’s neuroma. Wearing these types of shoes may cause this nerve to become compressed and is often painful and uncomfortable. Additionally, it may happen to patients who frequently participate in running and jumping activities, or to people who have flat feet or high arches. Common symptoms that are associated with this condition can include a tingling sensation that may eventually become a sharp and shooting pain. Numbness can accompany this ailment, and relief may be found when looser shoes are worn. If you have this type of pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide treatment options, which may include wearing custom-made orthotics.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Jeffrey Lerner of Palm Beach Podiatric Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wellington and Boca Raton, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.