Items filtered by date: February 2024

Foot pronation is the natural inward and outward movement of the foot while walking or running. In some cases, it can lead to over-pronation, where the foot excessively rolls inward, which affects gait and weight distribution. Overpronation may begin in childhood as a result of underdeveloped arches, or develop in adulthood due to arch collapse. Causes include genetics, foot deformities, and injuries. Obesity, and conditions like diabetes or arthritis, are other factors in developing pronation problems. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and related foot disorders such as plantar fasciitis or shin splints. Diagnosis involves examination, gait analysis, and imaging tests conducted by a podiatrist. If you have developed signs of overpronation, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options that are best for you.  

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care 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 our office located in Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout pain, a form of inflammatory arthritis, manifests as intense discomfort characterized by sudden, severe joint pain, typically affecting the big toe. Described as excruciating, stabbing, or throbbing, gout pain often strikes unexpectedly and can be debilitating, making even the slightest movement agonizing. The affected joint becomes swollen, tender, and warm to the touch, with the pain reaching its peak within a few hours. Gout attacks frequently occur at night, disrupting sleep and causing considerable distress. Beyond the big toe, gout can also affect joints such as the ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers, causing similar symptoms. The pain associated with gout can persist for days or weeks, gradually subsiding with proper treatment and management. Factors like diet, lifestyle choices, genetics, and underlying health conditions can influence the frequency and severity of gout attacks. Recognizing the distinct sensation of gout pain is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care 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 our office located in Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Proper foot stretching is essential for ballet dancers, who often subject their feet to intense physical demands and experience foot pain. Ballet dancers can prevent injuries and reduce any existing foot pain with regular stretching routines. One good foot stretch for ballet dancers is the Achilles tendon stretch, where the dancer gently leans forward against a wall, keeping one foot back with the heel on the ground. This stretch keeps the Achilles tendon flexible, and helps dancers achieve pointed foot positions required in ballet. Another helpful stretch is a toe stretch, where the dancer sits back on their heels with their toes rounded underneath. This encourages flexibility in the toes and the plantar fascia. Additionally, calf stretches against a wall helps prevent tightness and promotes fuller range of motion during ballet movements. Incorporating these stretches into a regular routine can help ballet dancers improve their foot flexibility, prevent injuries, and maintain agility. If you’re a ballet dancer with concerns about foot pain, or you want guidance about proper foot stretching, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can ensure you’re performing stretches correctly. 

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Understanding the causes of swollen feet, also known as edema, is important as this condition can signal other more serious ailments. Swelling of the feet is often accompanied by tenderness, pain, redness or warmth. In more severe cases, a decreased range of motion, difficulty breathing, and changes in skin color may occur. Injuries such as sprains and bruises frequently trigger swelling, as do infections like cellulitis. Chronic conditions like heart failure and kidney disease can lead to persistent edema, while pregnancy often causes swelling in the feet and ankles due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume. Allergic reactions and certain medications, like NSAIDs and steroids, can also induce swelling in the feet as a side effect. Treatment may include rest, elevation, compression therapy, medication adjustments, or medical interventions, such as drainage procedures or specialized footwear. If you are experiencing persistent swelling in the feet, it is suggested that you seek guidance from a podiatrist who can conduct an exam, identify the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.