The bones of the foot work together in a complex and well-coordinated way during walking to support balance, movement, and shock-absorption. As the heel strikes the ground, rearfoot bones provide stability and weight-bearing support. During mid-stance, the midfoot bones help distribute pressure evenly across the arch, allowing smooth forward motion. At push-off, the forefoot bones create leverage and flexibility for efficient propulsion. Ligaments and muscles support these bones to maintain proper alignment and reduce stress on joints. When bone movement is altered, pain or injury may occur. A podiatrist can evaluate gait mechanics, identify structural concerns, and provide customized treatments such as orthotics and strengthening plans. If you have foot pain while walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Syndactyly is a congenital condition in which two or more toes are joined together at birth by skin or soft tissue, creating a webbed appearance that varies in extent from person to person. In many individuals it causes no discomfort and does not interfere with walking, but some may notice pressure where the toes meet or difficulty finding shoes that feel comfortable. In certain cases, the joined toes can influence balance or the way weight is distributed across the foot during movement. Management depends on how the toes function and whether the connection limits mobility or creates irritation. A podiatrist can assess the structure of the foot, determine the type of syndactyly present, and discuss whether monitoring, footwear guidance, or surgery may be helpful. Once this problem is noticed, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many women who are pregnant notice they may have foot pain. This can be a result of water retention, pressure the growing fetus may exert on the legs, and flattening of the arch of the foot. Women may find mild relief when the feet are frequently elevated, in addition to minimizing the amount of sodium they eat, which is found in many foods and drinks. It is beneficial to incorporate a gentle exercise program into your daily routine, and this may help to increase circulation. Wearing shoes that are comfortable may help the feet feel better, and swollen feet may be minimized when fluids are frequently consumed. If you would like additional information about how pregnancy can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause painful inflammation in the joints of the feet and ankles, making daily movement difficult. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the joints. It leads to stiffness, swelling, and warmth in areas, such as the toes, midfoot, or ankle. The joints most often affected include the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joints at the base of the toes, the subtalar joint beneath the heel, and the ankle joint where the foot meets the leg. Over time, joint damage can cause deformities. Hammertoes, bunions, nodules, and painful calluses can develop from uneven pressure. Circulation problems may also occur, sometimes causing ulcers or skin changes. A podiatrist can evaluate joint involvement through imaging, prescribe orthotics to redistribute pressure, and recommend surgery when necessary. If you have foot or ankle pain from rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.