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Facts About Foot Anatomy

The foot is a complex structure made to support movement, balance, and weight. It is built from key bones, such as the talus, calcaneus, and cuboid, along with many smaller bones that work together through a network of 33 joints. Numerous tendons and ligaments connect these bones and allow the foot to move smoothly while providing strength and stability. These parts work as a unified system to help you stand, walk, and adapt to different surfaces. A podiatrist can evaluate how well your foot structures are functioning, identify sources of pain, and recommend treatments that restore comfort and mobility. If foot pain is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Approaches for Healing Complex Diabetic Foot Wounds

Diabetic foot wounds can be stubborn and difficult to heal, often requiring more than standard dressings and rest. Advances in care have introduced therapies that improve circulation, encourage new tissue growth, and reduce infection risk. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is one option that supplies extra oxygen to the tissues, helping speed up repair. Negative pressure wound therapy uses gentle suction to remove fluids and promote blood flow. Skin substitutes and growth factor treatments can also stimulate healing when traditional methods fall short. Each therapy is chosen based on the severity of the wound and the overall health of the patient. The goal is always to restore mobility, prevent infection, and avoid complications that could lead to surgery. If you are living with a complex diabetic foot wound, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to discuss the best treatment plan for you.

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. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. 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 contact our office located in Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Strengthening Foot Flexibility for Ballet with Simple Stretches

Ballet requires strength, balance, and flexibility in the feet to perform graceful movements. Regular stretching can enhance foot control and reduce injury risk. Toe tapping increases circulation and activates small foot muscles, while foot circles and ankle rolls improve joint mobility. Elastic band exercises build strength in the arches and ankles, and heel raises help stabilize the lower legs for better pointe work. These exercises support flexibility and endurance essential for dancers. A podiatrist can evaluate alignment, recommend proper footwear, and design a customized stretching plan to enhance performance. A podiatrist can offer a professional foot assessment to help keep your feet strong, flexible, and ready to perform beautifully. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury in ballet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions and foot flexibility exercises.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Foot and Ankle Injuries Common to Football Players

Football players are at high risk for foot and ankle injuries, with lateral ankle sprains being the most common. These occur when the ankle twists outward, stretching or tearing ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Risk factors include previous ankle injuries, inadequate warm up, uneven playing surfaces, and ill-fitting footwear. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend bracing or taping, design rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and stability, and guide a safe return to play. Early treatment prevents chronic instability and long term complications. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions and prevention tips.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

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