The arches of the foot play a significant role in movement, stability, and shock absorption. The foot has three arches, the medial longitudinal arch, the lateral longitudinal arch, and the transverse arch. These structures are formed by the tarsal and metatarsal bones and are supported by ligaments and tendons. The medial arch, which is the highest and most flexible, distributes weight and adapts to changes in terrain. The lateral arch is lower and provides stability, while the transverse arch helps maintain foot shape and balance. A well-functioning arch system allows efficient weight distribution and reduces strain on the joints. However, arch abnormalities can lead to pain and dysfunction. A low arch, or flat foot, often results in excessive foot pronation, which increases the risk of heel pain and arch discomfort. A high arch may reduce shock absorption, placing excessive pressure on the forefoot and heel. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot’s arch structure, diagnose potential issues, and provide treatment options like custom orthotics, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. 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 Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe often occurs from stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on it, or during sports activities. It typically affects the small toe but can occur in any of the toes. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. The toe may also appear crooked or misaligned, especially in more severe fractures. Treating a broken toe often involves buddy taping, where the injured toe is taped to the neighboring toe for support. In less severe cases, this method can stabilize the toe and allow it to heal. For more serious fractures, a podiatrist may recommend a splint, or, in rare cases, surgery to realign the bones. This type of doctor can assess the extent of the injury, provide pain management, and guide you through the recovery process. They will also monitor for complications, such as infection or improper healing. If you think you have broken a toe, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot wounds can lead to serious complications if not cared for properly. A podiatrist is a trained specialist who takes specific steps to clean and treat a foot wound to ensure it heals effectively and reduces the risk of infection. After the hands are washed, the wound is assessed for any foreign debris, such as dirt or stones. Using sterile gauze or a clean cloth, the wound is cleaned with mild soap and water, and caution is taken to not scrub the affected area. This is followed by applying a suitable antiseptic solution to disinfect the wound. Once the area is properly cleaned and disinfected, the wound is covered with a sterile bandage to create a protective barrier, promoting faster healing. If you have sustained a foot wound, it is suggested to seek professional care from a podiatrist to ensure the wound is treated appropriately and to receive guidance on the best care practices for your specific injury.

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 Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. 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 Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.