All You Need To Know About Bone Spurs

September 8, 2019

A bone spur is an abnormal bone growth.

Bone spurs, also referred to as osteophyte, can occur throughout the body, and along bone edges. Common sites include the spine, neck, and in the foot, specifically in the heel and toes (as pictured in this blog post).

What is a bone spur?

Osteophyte is bony outgrowth at the intersection of your bones. Osteophyte occurs because of damaged joints and develops when the body tries to heal itself from injury. A bone spur can be visible in the form of a hard bump. In other cases, it may not be apparent at all that you have a bone spur.

What can cause a bone spur?

Osteophyte forms when the body tries to repair itself, so there are underlying causes to how and why a bone spur forms.

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and occurs when the cartilage between your bones begins to wear down. Because joint cartilage cannot be repaired, the problem often gets worse if not treated or addressed correctly.

In response, your body forms extra bone to stabilize the damaged joint. One can develop osteoarthritis, and thus a bone spur, because of overuse – running, ballet, and any other sport that puts enormous pressure on your feet – as well as an acute injury, obesity or being overweight, and wearing tight shoes. Overuse can result in osteophyte because of ligament damage and your body attempts to fortify itself by building calcium deposits.

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteophyte include pain, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, grating sensations, swelling, and seeing bony projection itself.

You may experience loss of flexibility as your joints lose their full range of motion, as well as swelling due to the damaged tissue being inflamed. You may also hear and feel grating due to the bones rubbing together.

These symptoms are particularly prevalent in athletes who participate in high-impact sports. Those who run, or do gymnastics and ballet are particularly prone, as are older people. Symptoms may get worse over time if not addressed. Plus, you may experience any combination of these symptoms.

Typically, if you have a heel spur, you will notice a bony projection on the underside of the foot. Meanwhile, if you have a bone spur in your metatarsal or toe, there may be a protrusion on the top of your foot. If the growth is serious enough, you may need new shoes to accommodate the growth.

Treatment

Treatment isn’t always necessary, since a bone spur may not cause you any pain or reduce your quality of life.

If you experience pain, visit a professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. It should be noted that you cannot remove the bone spur without surgery. But, if you fix the problem at its root, and take certain precautionary steps, bone spurs won’t necessarily be painful, and surgery won’t be necessary. In any case, surgery is a short-term solution as a bone spur can re-develop.

Certain treatments include weight loss, changing shoes, hot and cold therapy to reduce inflammation, and anti-inflammatories.

If you do require surgery, the course of action is to either remove the bone spur entirely or to fuse the bones together. Recovery time can vary, and as always, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Prevention of bone spurs

To prevent bone spurs, in essence, you want to reduce your risk of osteoarthritis. Common preventions include:

Orthotics, which can help support your feet if you have high or low arches.
Avoid wearing shoes tight in the toe and heel region, and find footwear that best suits your foot type by visiting a specialist. Our foot clinic is open six days a week and offers a large selection of supportive and cushioning footwear.
Follow the RICE method – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – after intense exercise to allow your body and feet to recover.
Visit a doctor if you notice early signs of a bone spur, or osteoarthritis.

Visit us at 2481 Bloor St. W, Toronto or call us at 416.769.3338(FEET) to book an appointment for your foot care needs and treatment.

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

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March 30, 2023

Custom Orthotics: The Solution for Chronic Foot Pain

For those with chronic foot pain, it can be downright impossible to achieve pain management on a substantial level. But if you wear custom orthotics with your shoes, long-lasting comfort may be just around the corner. Custom orthotic insoles are among the most popular medical devices chiropodists offer their patients. Per Harvard Health , foot specialists prescribe orthotic inserts when the "muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, or bones are not in an optimal functional position and are causing pain, discomfort, and fatigue." The key word here is "custom," meaning these insoles are specifically designed for your unique needs and tailor-made to target each individual's chronic pain. They are not the same as insoles you can buy over the counter, which appeal to the masses. But it's not enough to simply take our word for it. Understanding the science behind custom orthotics and how they aid so many different foot issues is important. In today's blog, we'll explore three main topics: How custom orthotics treat chronic foot pain What conditions can you treat with custom orthotics? How to acquire custom orthotics How Custom Orthotics Treat Chronic Foot Pain Orthotics have one main job: to correct the foot's walking and standing position. Those with a painful foot condition, or those predisposed to developing one due to flat feet or high arches, often adapt slightly unusual walking patterns to compensate for their less-than-ideal foot structure. The two main ways we do this include: Overpronation (flat feet): When the foot and ankle roll slightly inward and downward with every step. In this case, orthotics adjust your foot's position by offering sufficient arch support. Underpronation/Supination (high arches): When the foot's heel leans outward, putting excess weight on the outer edge of the foot. Orthotics can correct this by stabilizing the foot's steps. Orthotics also help with chronic foot pain caused by joint and muscle conditions like arthritis and pain caused by severe foot deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes. They do this by placing the foot in a position that reduces excess force and pressure on the foot's mot vulnerable and painful areas during movement. Not only does this relieve strain, but proper alignment of the feet can also help avoid future back, knee and hip pain. What Foot Conditions Can You Treat With Custom Orthotics? Custom insoles can help treat a wide array of common foot issues. Some of these: Plantar fasciitis: Orthotics support the foot's arch and provide extra cushioning and shock absorption for the heel. Osteoarthritis: Orthotics immobilize, support, or correct the joints' movements while stabilizing walking. Bunions: Orthotics help reduce excessive pressure on the big toe joint. Morton's neuroma: Orthotics prevent the rolling together of bones in the metatarsal arch (the arch responsible for distributing weight, located just behind the ball of the foot). Metatarsalgia: Semirigid orthotics reduce pressure in painful areas and support the feet. Achille's Tendonitis: Orthotics reduce the load and strain on the Achille's tendon while supporting the foot as the tissue heals. Gout: Supportive orthotics with sufficient cushioning can help with gout attacks by reducing joint pressure. Hammertoes: Orthotics counteract the muscle-tendon imbalance that causes hammertoes. They also align the bones in the foot and provide cushioning in crucial areas. How to Acquire Custom Orthotics The best way to secure the perfect pair of custom insoles is to schedule the appropriate appointments with your chiropodist. They start with a thorough biomechanical assessment that includes a test of your range of motion and weight-bearing tendencies, as well as a gait analysis. Following this, your chiropodist will use one of several casting techniques to make custom orthotics by capturing your foot in the ideal position. And lastly, you can schedule an appointment for a fitting when your orthotics arrive to ensure they're working properly. Check out our main orthotics page to read more about securing custom orthotics. You can also learn more about the benefits of custom orthotics and the several different kinds by viewing our comprehensive guide to orthotics.

March 27, 2023

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms and Treatment

Do you experience heel pain when you walk or stand? Is the pain exceptionally sharp in the mornings or evenings? You might have a foot injury called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, becomes strained or injured. This can cause tiny tears in the fascia, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. In this blog post, we explore what is plantar fasciitis, its common symptoms, and treatment options. What is plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is pain or soreness in the heel and sole. It occurs when the band of tissue between your heel and toes on the underside of the foot - called the plantar fascia - becomes inflamed or irritated. The plantar fascia absorbs shock and supports the arch of the foot. Small tears can occur in the tissue when it is repeatedly strained, leading to inflammation and pain. This condition is common in athletes, runners, and people who stand for long periods. Most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis symptoms includes: Sharp or stabbing pain in the heel or arch of the foot, especially in the morning or after periods of rest. Pain that worsens with weight-bearing activity or standing for long periods. Stiffness or aching in the bottom of the foot. Swelling or redness in the heel or arch. The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a pain in the heel or arch of the foot. You may experience pain in the surrounding areas due to plantar fasciitis, but discomfort is typically in the underside of the midfoot. Pain can be more intense during certain times of the day. You may experience plantar pain, even a sharp stabbing sensation, in the morning and evening. Next, let's tackle effective treatment methods for plantar fasciitis to help you recover from this foot condition as soon as possible. Plantar fasciitis treatment methods Plantar fasciitis treatment depends on the severity and longevity of the pain. Try the following treatment methods to see what works best for you. RICE: Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation The "RICE" method is a commonly recommended treatment for minor injuries, including sprains, strains, and bruises. RICE stands for: Rest: Reduce and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, and rest the foot as much as possible. Resting may include taking a few days off exercise or wearing more supportive shoes around the house to strengthen your feet. Ice: Use cold therapy by applying an ice pack or dipping your feet in an ice bath or tub for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation and pain. Compression: Compression sleeves can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow to the feet and legs. You can also choose to wear a splint at night to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon while sleeping. Elevation: Lifting your feet above your heart by elevating your legs and feet can reduce swelling. The RICE method works best in the first 48 to 72 hours after injury or aggravation, but can be effective throughout the treatment stage. Afterward, you may gradually move the affected area and do gentle exercises to help you recover. Shockwave therapy Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that leverages sound waves to kickstart healing. A handheld device delivers the waves on the underside of the foot. The high-energy sound waves stimulate the growth of blood vessels and encourage better blood flow to the affected area. Greater blood flow can help reduce pain and inflammation and promote tissue regeneration. Shockwave therapy requires a series of sessions. Each session last 10-15 minutes, and the number of sessions varies based on the severity of the injury. Did you know Feet First Clinic offers shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis? Book an appointment online or call us at (416) 769-3338. Stretching exercises Stretching exercises can help relieve the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Specifically, stretching the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon can effectively treat heel and arch pain. Here are some stretching exercises that may help with plantar fasciitis: Calf stretch. Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at shoulder height. Step back with one foot and keep it straight, with the heel on the floor. Lean forward with the other foot, keeping both heels on the floor until you feel a stretch in your calf. Plantar fascia stretch. Sit in a chair with one foot on your opposite knee. Grab the base of your toes with one hand and your heel with the other. Gently pull your toes back toward your shin until you feel a stretch in the arch of your foot. Towel stretch. Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Place a towel around the ball of your foot and hold both ends of the towel with your hands. Pull the towel toward your body until you feel a stretch in your calf and the bottom of your foot. Generally, we recommend holding stretches for 20-30 seconds and switching sides. You should feel a light stretch and shouldn't strain the movement, or you risk overextending your muscles. Orthotics Custom orthotics are shoe inserts that fit your feet and address biomechanical issues that may contribute to plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics can help curb plantar fasciitis by doing the following: Reduce pressure on the plantar fascia by redistributing pressure away from the plantar fascia, which can help reduce pain and inflammation. Correct foot mechanics, including flat feet or collapsed arches. Provide cushioning and support. Improve overall foot function by addressing underlying biomechanical issues and providing support and cushioning to the foot. It's important to note that custom orthotics are not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be appropriate for everyone with plantar fasciitis. Consult a chiropodist to determine if custom orthotics are right for you. Taping Taping isn't just for athletes. Elastic therapeutic taping techniques can limit unwanted movements that increase strain on the plantar fascia. Taping can act as a lock on your feet to reduce overextending any aggravated muscles in your feet. Research finds that "in the short-term, taping is beneficial in treating plantar fasciitis. The best evidence exists for low-dye taping and calcaneal taping." The tape provides stability and structure to the muscle group. Our chiropodists at Feet First Clinic can tape your feet and toes to help treat plantar fasciitis. Self-massage Self-massage can be a helpful way to relieve some of the pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. Here are some techniques you can try at home: Ball roll. Sit on a chair and place a tennis or massage ball under your foot. Roll your foot back and forth over the ball, applying pressure to the arch of your foot. Thumb press. Sit on a chair and cross one leg over the other. Place your thumb on the arch of your foot and press firmly, moving your thumb in a circular motion. You can also use your other fingers to help support your foot and apply additional pressure. Toe stretch. Sit on a chair and cross one leg over the other. Grab your toes with one hand and gently pull them back toward your shin until you feel a stretch in the arch of your foot. Hold for a few seconds and release. Heel squeeze. Sit on a chair and place a small hand towel on the floor before you. Place your heel on the towel and squeeze your heel toward your toes, scrunching the towel. A chiropodist can recommend additional exercises for you or demonstrate how to do these self-massage techniques to do them properly on your own.

March 20, 2023

Foot Arch Pain: Causes and Treatment

Are you experiencing foot arch pain? You’re not alone. The arches of our feet support our weight when we're upright, providing a critical function for the body. Your arch also influences how you move, making it essential to keep them healthy and supported. But, sometimes, pain can creep up. We're here to help. This blog post outlines how foot arch pain develops and how to nip foot arch discomfort early to prevent long-term effects. What is foot arch pain? Foot arch pain can be a subtle or intense discomfort in the curved, raised area along the bottom of the foot (the arch). The arch is the midpoint of the foot between the ball and the heel of the foot. It comprises bones, ligaments, and tendons in the foot, which support the body's weight and help absorb shock during walking and other activities. A person's arch is unique. The height and shape of the arch vary from person to person. Genetics, age, and the type of shoes a person wears all play a role in the arch's shape. Foot arch pain is a common source of discomfort and may occur for various reasons. You may experience pain in different parts of the arch: the medial arch (inside edge), the lateral arch (outer edge), and the transverse arch (middle). Next, we get into the causes of foot arch pain. What causes foot arch pain? Foot arch pain can be acute or chronic, typically stemming from inflammation. Pain can also range from a dull soreness to an intense sensation. Below, we outline the various causes of foot arch pain. Overuse or repetitive stress Foot arch pain can be simply the result of doing too much in too short a period. Repeated stress or overuse of the feet can lead to inflammation and pain in the arches. Overuse is especially prevalent in sports, with running, jumping, or even standing for long periods (like at work or if you stand at your desk while working from home). Flat feet Flat feet occur when the arch comes in complete contact with the ground due to weakened tendons and ligaments that can no longer hold up the arch. While flat feet may not always cause problems, individuals with fallen arches may require treatment such as supportive shoes or custom orthotics to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage. Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis affects the bottom of the foot and causes heel pain. This foot condition occurs when the band of tissue between your heel and toes becomes irritated. Plantar fasciitis can happen for various reasons, such as overuse, repetitive strain, or injury to the foot. People who are overweight, have flat feet or high arches, or engage in activities that stress the feet, such as running or standing for long periods, are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. You may experience pain and stiffness in the heel or arch of the foot, especially in the morning or after walking, running, or standing. Arthritis Arthritis describes conditions that cause inflammation and damage to the joints. Various forms of arthritis can lead to arch pain. Types of arthritis that cause arch pain include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Injury You may experience foot arch pain because of past trauma or injury. Conditions like sprains, strains, or falls can cause arch pain due to acute muscle damage, ligament, and tendon damage. Now that you know the various causes of arch pain, let's get into treatment methods. How can foot arch pain be treated? Foot arch pain treatment can sometimes be frustrating due to our reliance on our arch. Staying off our feet to reduce stress on the arch can be challenging, but fortunately, there are several effective treatment options for foot arch pain. Depending on the intensity of the pain, you may choose a DIY treatment method. If your arch pain is persistent or severe, we recommend seeing a foot specialist to discuss treatment options and create a treatment plan. Rest and ice A mix of rest and ice is an effective treatment method for foot arch pain. First, temporarily reduce impactful activities and allow your feet to rest. Supplement rest with icing to keep swelling and inflammation down. (You can even use a frozen water bottle as an icy massage tool by rolling your feet on the bottle.) Then, when you feel like you're on the upswing, ease slowly back into physical activity. Avoid returning to strenuous activity to allow your body to readjust from rest to being active. Stretching Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and relieve tension in the arches. Here are a few effective stretching and strengthening exercises for arch pain: Place a towel on the floor, and grab the towel with your toes pulling it towards you. Grasp your toes (while seated), and scrunch them towards you to feel a stretch in your arch. Lean against a wall with your arms extended, and move your hips forward to stretch your calves. Shockwave Therapy This non-invasive innovative treatment delivers high-energy sound wave pulses to the affected area. Shockwave therapy triggers your body’s natural healing response to repair the damaged tissue in the arch area and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is scientifically proven to be a highly effective treatment for chronic arch pain caused by plantar fasciitis. It is an excellent supplement to other treatments like orthotics and supportive footwear. Orthotics Custom-made orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning to the arches, which can help reduce pain and discomfort. Orthotics work to correct or accommodate biomechanical abnormalities, foot deformities, and other conditions to improve your gait and manage pain. The purpose of orthotics is to redistribute the force and pressure placed on our muscles and joints when we move. Equal distribution across your feet means fewer aches and pains as your muscles work better in tandem instead of select groups overworking. Supportive footwear Shoes with good arch support can alleviate arch pain, much like orthotics can. Wearing the proper footwear for your feet and the purpose is the least we can do for our feet. Supportive footwear acts to provide both the correct cushioning and Physical therapy Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the feet and ankles. Keeping your feet strong and balanced is vital to proper arch support. Over time, the tendons and ligaments of the arch tend to weaken. Physical therapy can help combat age and fallen arches. Medications You may supplement the above treatment methods with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation. Consult a doctor if you have intense pain or have questions about dosage or the recommended medication.

March 13, 2023

Effective Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

Arch pain is among the most common forms of foot discomfort. It can be particularly uncomfortable because of how critical the arch and heel are to the foot. The arch is the supporting foundation of our feet and appropriately resembles the shape of an aqueduct. Given the daily demands of life, it's easy to see how these structures can become overworked and damaged. The most common cause of arch pain and heel pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis. Keep reading to learn about the most effective plantar fasciitis treatments, including shockwave therapy, custom orthotics, and pain management solutions, to help you conquer the pain of plantar fasciitis for good. What's plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is when you experience pain or discomfort in the heel and underside of the foot - including the arch. Inflammation or irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that extends between the heel bone and the arch, triggers plantar fasciitis. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis may include: Pain in the heel or underside of the foot. Pain may peak in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Stiffness and tenderness in the foot. Swelling or redness in the foot. Difficulty walking or standing for long periods. What causes plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is a common condition, especially among athletes and people who spend long periods on their feet. Understanding the source of your plantar fasciitis can help determine the best plantar fasciitis treatments for you. Causes of plantar fasciitis include: Overuse: Repetitive activities that stress the plantar fascia, such as running, jumping, or standing for long periods, can overwork the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain. Lower leg biomechanics: Some foot structures can stress the plantar fascia and increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Flat feet or high arches, for instance, may cause plantar fasciitis by adding stress to the muscle group. Footwear: Improper footwear that (1) doesn't provide enough arch support, (2) doesn't have enough support or cushioning, or (3) doesn't fit properly can all contribute to plantar fasciitis. Age: Plantar fasciitis is common in people over 40, as the plantar fascia loses elasticity and becomes more prone to injury with age. Medical conditions: Obesity, diabetes, and osteoarthritis can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Tight or weak muscles: Tight muscles in the calf or foot can put extra stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain. Weight: Sudden weight gain can add stress to the plantar fascia before your body acclimatizes to the high support requirement. The causes of plantar fasciitis can vary from person to person, and a combination of factors may contribute to the development of the condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a chiropodist, can help identify the underlying causes of your plantar fasciitis and guide appropriate treatment. What are the effective treatment methods for plantar fasciitis? There are many effective treatments for plantar fasciitis. Depending on the severity of the condition, you can treat the pain and discomfort yourself or be better off seeing a foot specialist. We recommend the following treatments for plantar fasciitis: Rest Avoiding activities that cause pain can help reduce inflammation and allow the plantar fascia to heal. Rest is the number one treatment method for plantar fasciitis as you remove the source cause. You may only need a few days of recovery, but more severe cases may need up to 4-6 weeks. After adequate rest, you may slowly resume physical activity and be on your feet. Ice Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. You can freeze a water bottle, and rest your foot on top of it while sitting. The cold therapy reduces inflammation. Footwear modifications Wearing supportive shoes or inserts can help reduce stress on the plantar fascia and improve foot biomechanics. You should also remove ill-fitting footwear from your closet. Instead, choose one of our best shoes for plantar fasciitis relief. Physical therapy Physiotherapy and massage therapy effectively treats plantar fasciitis if you prefer not to DIY. At home, you can self-massage by rolling a tennis ball or frozen water bottle under the foot. Self-message strengthens the foot arch muscles and relieves tension in the inflamed plantar fascia. Stretching and strengthening are also critical parts of plantar fasciitis treatment. Towel stretches, calf stretches, tennis ball rolls, and marble pickups can help strengthen the arch and heel. Find out how to effectively do plantar fasciitis exercises here. Shockwave therapy This non-invasive innovative treatment delivers high-energy sound wave pulses to the affected area. It triggers your body's natural healing response to repair the plantar fascia and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is scientifically proven to be a highly effective treatment for plantar fasciitis pain persisting longer than six months. Custom orthotics Custom orthotics and orthopedic shoes support the arches of your feet and reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Both also encourage proper heel-to-toe gait, which, combined with arch support, can prevent a recurrence. Taping Taping isn't just for sports. Elastic therapeutic taping techniques may prevent unwanted movements that increase strain on the plantar fascia. For example, research finds that “in the short-term, taping is beneficial in treating plantar fasciitis. The best evidence exists for low dye taping and calcaneal taping.” Behind-the-scenes, taping provides stability and structure to the muscle group. Our chiropodists at Feet First Clinic can skillfully and therapeutically tape the feet and toes to treat and prevent a variety of foot conditions and deformities.

March 6, 2023

Biomechanical Analysis for Improved Foot and Ankle Function

Our gait, or the way we walk, is like our blueprint. It's unique to every individual. But there are commonalities. Gait reveals a lot about us: gait tells us how we distribute our weight when we walk, the parts of our feet which may experience too much or too little pressure, and areas of compensation. These features factor into our biomechanics – the mechanics of our body's movement. In this article, we'll talk about how a simple biomechanical analysis can help you say goodbye to foot and ankle pain and improve your foot and ankle function. What's a biomechanical analysis? Biomechanical analysis is a helpful tool for identifying and improving foot and ankle function. Biomechanical analysis can explain factors contributing to foot and ankle injuries or dysfunction, and develop interventions to improve function and reduce the risk of injury. A biomechanical analysis also determines our gait and foot type. You may overpronate or supinate, which refers to how far inwards or outwards your ankle rolls when moving. An analysis can also provide details on your foot type: you may have high, medium, or low arches (flat feet). There are three components to a typical biomechanical analysis. Range of motion assessment: A chiropodist examines your range of motion in the major joints of the foot, ankle, hip and knee. They will check how everything in your body is aligned and the symmetry between your body's left and right sides. Generally, a higher range of motion is more ideal as it permits muscles and joints work together in unison equally. Weight-bearing assessment: A chiropodist investigates how your muscles and joints distribute weight through different movements. Gait analysis: A chiropodist carefully examines your gait to see how your feet, joints and muscles move when you walk. They will also examine how you distribute your body weight during each stage of your walking motion. Video analysis may be part of the gait analysis. Video gait analysis equipment records you from different angles while you walk on a treadmill and allows for slow-motion replays to pinpoint exact flaws or trends in your movement. Once a biomechanical assessment is complete, a chiropodist can provide a treatment and prevention plan. How do poor mechanics lead to foot conditions? Abnormalities in your gait can lead to several foot and skin conditions due to uneven weight distribution. Over- or under-pronating (supination) creates a chain reaction in your feet and ankles every time you step by disrupting the proper distribution of weight and impact across your joints and muscles. Over time, specific muscle groups are over (or under) worked, which can cause irritation and, ultimately, pain and discomfort. Common foot and ankle conditions that may stem from poor mechanics include: Bone and heel spurs Blisters Bunions Achilles tendonitis Plantar fasciitis Metatarsalgia Morton's neuroma Capsulitis How can a biomechanical analysis help your feet and ankles? Once a biomechanical analysis is complete, clinicians and researchers can use the information to develop interventions to improve foot and ankle function. Improvements may include: Exercises to strengthen weak muscles Stretching to improve flexibility. Custom foot orthotics or footwear modifications to improve foot alignment. Orthotics are custom shoe inserts specific to your feet. Orthotics aim to correct or accommodate biomechanical abnormalities, foot deformities, and a variety of joint and muscle conditions (i.e., arthritis) to improve your gait and manage pain. They do this by redistributing the force and pressure placed on our muscles and joints when we move. Overall, biomechanical analysis can be a valuable tool for improving foot and ankle function, thereby reducing the risk of injury. By identifying factors contributing to foot and ankle problems and developing targeted interventions, clinicians and researchers can help individuals maintain healthy, pain-free feet and ankles. Who can benefit from a biomechanical analysis? Many people can benefit from a biomechanical analysis to better understand their feet and how they move. A biomechanical analysis can be helpful for those looking to improve their physical performance or function, whether for sports, work, or everyday activities. In addition, those who spend a lot of time on their feet, patients with physical disabilities, and anyone who experiences foot and ankle pain can benefit from a biomechanical assessment.

March 2, 2023

The Role of Chiropodists in Preventing and Treating Foot Injuries

Many different foot issues fall under the "foot injuries" umbrella. From sprains and broken bones that leave you bedridden to overuse injuries that make your days more painful, it would take a full day to discuss every foot injury in detail! That's why we're aiming to give this article a positive spin by switching the focus to treatment and how a chiropodist can help you. But first, it's important to discern between the two types of injuries and how the type you have will determine your approach to treatment. Today's blog will discuss the following: What are some common foot injuries? Examples of overuse injuries Examples of acute injuries How do chiropodists treat and prevent foot injuries? What Are Some Common Foot Injuries? When discussing foot injury treatment, it's important to distinguish the cause of the injury and whether or not sudden, acute pain is present. Some injuries cause everyday pain flair-ups that can be a real nuisance but aren't enough to make you feel like you must go to the hospital. These are "overuse" injuries because they stem from straining your muscles and joints and withstanding repetitive, mild trauma. These injuries arise when we exert intense physical activity too quickly without proper stretching, exercising and footwear. However, you don't have to be an athlete to succumb to an overuse injury; you can also develop one due to wearing ill-fitting, unsupportive shoes while working on your feet all day. On the other hand, some injuries are sudden and result from a fall or misstep. They can also result from the blunt impact of an object falling on your foot. These are often more debilitating in the days that follow the injury. Examples of Overuse / "Everyday" Foot Injuries Achilles Tendonitis: Occurs due to Achilles tendon inflammation (connects your heel and calf along the back of the foot). Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia). Often caused by overuse, poor footwear choices and repeated walking on hard surfaces. Morton's Neuroma: Results from the irritation and thickening of the tissues surrounding the nerves that lead to your toes. Patients notice pain in the ball of the foot. Shin splints: Pain along the shin bone caused by overworking muscles, tendons and bone tissues, commonly found in athletes and dancers. Heel spurs: A calcium deposit that causes a bony protrusion underneath the heel bone. They may be painless or cause sporadic heel pain. Capsulitis (big toe or second toe): Joint inflammation in the area where the toe's base meets the foot's ball. Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot due to overuse and playing sports with excessive jumping and running. Examples of Sudden (Acute) Foot Injuries Ankle sprains Broken bones in the foot due to blunt force trauma Bruises(contusions) Puncture wounds Ruptured tendons How Do Chiropodists Treat and Prevent Foot Injuries? Overuse / Everyday Injuries Treatment and Prevention Chiropodists are known for successfully treating and preventing overuse injuries. They pride themselves on giving patients the tools to manage pain and improve their quality of life. Some of the most effective services include: Custom orthotic fittings Recommending exercises and stretches Shockwave therapy Footwear modification guidance Periodic foot assessments Custom Orthotic Fittings These inserts fit into virtually all of your footwear, help stabilize your feet and ankles, and take the stress off the weight-bearing areas of the feet. They are one of the most multi-purposeful medical devices for foot injury recovery and can aid almost every foot condition. The goal is to use your foot as the blueprint to create the perfect pair of orthotics that keep your foot in the ideal position for healing and pain management. Recommending Exercises and Stretches for Target Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments and Joints Feet First Clinic's Pinterest Board has several options for stretches that help with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, ankle strengthening, and much more. These routines are also tools you can use to strengthen your foot, protecting you from a future overuse or sudden injury. These stretches and exercises also fit nicely into your foot care regimen! Shockwave Therapy This modern and non-invasive therapy treats soft tissue injuries like Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, Morton's neuroma and muscle strain. After thorough preparation, a chiropodist uses an applicator to deliver energy pulses to the affected areas. It is a quick, pain-free treatment lasting only 5-20 minutes. Footwear Modification Guidance Chiropodists have a keen sense of what shoes to recommend depending on individual needs. A shoe fitting at a foot clinic keeps you from developing an overuse injury and can help in the rehabilitation phase of a more severe injury. Periodic Foot Assessments A foot assessment is like a full body physical that focuses solely on your feet. Likewise, you will need updates on how your overuse or acute injury is recovering and if your progress is continuing along nicely. For those without glaring foot issues, a foot assessment is recommended once per year. If you have a healing injury, you should see your chiropodist for an assessment every six months or less, depending on your situation. Sudden Foot Injuries Treatment and Prevention Now let's get into the more debilitating foot injuries. First and foremost, you shouldn't immediately see your chiropodist after experiencing a blunt form trauma injury, sudden ankle sprain or any other type of acutely painful accident. On the day you sustain such an injury (and the immediate days that follow), you may have to get MRIs or X-ray images in addition to crutches or a physical exam from a physician. You should then practice the R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method from home while you take it easy and avoid walking. However, chiropodists can help immensely with injury recovery after the acute pain phase passes. Chiropody treatment for ankle injuries like sprains or broken bones in the foot typically occurs during rehabilitation or when the patient has begun healing and needs to regain control of their motion via therapeutic intervention. To learn what treatment methods are available, you can simply revert to our list for overuse injuries. You can also use the preventative measures we've already mentioned, but we have a few additional tips worth noting: Reduce your chances of ankle sprains by focusing on stretches that improve ankle flexibility and strength. Watch your step when walking and playing sports to avoid breaking a bone or sustaining a sprain. Wear shoes that offer extra ankle support to avoid sprains. To prevent accidents at home, wear shoes or orthopaedic slippers indoors and take your time walking while tired or impaired for any reason.

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