Items filtered by date: June 2023

The feet are considered to be one of the most complex parts of the body. Each foot has 26 bones, and a number of ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work in harmony to keep us mobile. The bones in the feet are divided into three categories. Seven bones make up the first group, known as the tarsal bones. These include the ankle and heel bone, in addition to the bones that form the arch. The metatarsals are the next set of foot bones that are found in the center of the foot. They connect the tarsal bones to the phalanges, which is the third group of bones. These are found in the toes, and aid in balancing the body. Some of the foot conditions that can affect the foot bones are arthritis, gout, bunions, and hammertoe. Additionally, the heel bone is targeted when heel spurs or plantar fasciitis develops. If you would like more information about the structure of the foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with interesting foot facts.

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.

A chronic foot wound is a wound on the foot that does not repair itself in a normal or timely manner. Because such wounds can have serious consequences, it is important for those at risk to practice wound prevention and treatment guidelines. Wounds on the feet can include arterial, diabetic, pressure wounds and venous ulcers. When such wounds surface, it is crucial that they be assessed and even biopsied. Treating such wounds is based on the TIME principle which stands for tissue debridement, infection control, moisture balance, and edges of the wound. Once these things are evaluated, treatment is specific to the wound type. Underlying conditions, such as diabetes or vascular disease are also important to manage. If you are someone who has chronic foot wounds, it is highly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can regularly examine your feet and immediately treat wounds that surface.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Jeffrey Lerner from Palm Beach Podiatric Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

The common symptoms that are generally associated with ankle pain include stiffness, pain, and swelling. There is no mistaking an ankle injury and it can temporarily halt everyday activities. Ankle pain can occur from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb or in people who run frequently. Running can cause consistent pressure on the ankle bones and joints. The ankle may gradually weaken and pain may ensue. Many times an X-ray is taken which can rule out a broken ankle. It is beneficial to elevate the ankle, preferably above the heart, to help reduce swelling. Once the ankle begins to heal, specific stretches can be done to strengthen the ankle. If you have ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer the treatment methods that are right for you.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Jeffrey Lerner from Palm Beach Podiatric Center. 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 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.

The joints in the big toe are affected with the condition that is known as gout. This painful arthritic condition happens as a result of excess uric acid in the blood. This can be caused by genetic reasons or from eating foods that are high in purines. These types of foods include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. Gout attacks generally begin at night and may last for several weeks. This condition can be managed when lifestyle changes are implemented, such as replacing some of the foods that are eaten with healthier choices. It is beneficial to engage in a gentle exercise program on a regular basis, in addition to drinking plenty of water daily. People who are overweight may be prone to developing gout, and additional weight may be lost when they limit the type of, and amount of, foods that are eaten. If you have had one or frequent gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist is contacted who can help you to manage, and possibly prevent, this uncomfortable condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Jeffrey Lerner from Palm Beach Podiatric Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.