High arches, also known as cavus foot, can lead to various foot problems due to the uneven distribution of weight. People with high arches often experience pain on the outside of the foot, ankle instability, and discomfort under the ball of the foot, particularly beneath the first metatarsal. The high arch foot structure puts excessive pressure on certain areas, which can increase the risk of issues like plantar fasciitis. Instability in the ankle can cause people to feel like they are tipping outward, which may lead to lateral foot pain or stress fractures. Diagnosing high arches involves evaluating muscle strength, assessing pain patterns, and using imaging tests, if necessary. A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics to support the foot’s structure and relieve pressure points. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct deformities or address any underlying issues. If you have high arches and are eperiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot stress fractures are hairline cracks in the bones often caused by repetitive strain. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing stress fractures, especially in the feet. People who participate in high-impact activities, such as running, dancing, or gymnastics, face a higher risk of stress fractures from the repeated pressure and pounding on their feet. Women, particularly those experiencing menstrual irregularities, may be more prone to fractures due to lower bone density. Conditions like osteoporosis or insufficient intake of vitamin D and calcium can further weaken bones and increase the risk. Foot structure issues, such as high arches or flat feet, can also lead to stress fractures, as well as wearing poor footwear or sudden changes in activity surfaces. Podiatrists play a key role in diagnosing and managing foot stress fractures. This foot doctor may use imaging techniques such as MRI scans to confirm the injury. If you have foot pain that may indicate a stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause of heel pain that affects the thick band of tissue, known as the plantar fascia, which runs along the bottom of the foot. Pain is usually most noticeable during the first few steps after waking or after long periods of inactivity, but can also worsen with prolonged standing or walking. Discomfort occurs from microtears at the point where the plantar fascia connects to the heel bone, triggering inflammation. Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include excessive standing, increased body weight, aging, a sudden change in activity level, or tight calf muscles. A podiatrist can help by assessing your foot mechanics, recommending specific stretches for the calf and plantar fascia, and suggesting modifications in footwear and activity levels to reduce stress on the affected area. In most cases, non-surgical treatment is effective in relieving symptoms and improving function. If you have heel pain that may be caused by plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Falling outside the home can pose a significant risk, especially for older adults. Falls outside the home can be caused by uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, or crowded areas. Parks, parking lots, and public staircases are common spots where falls may occur, leading to serious injuries like broken bones. Footwear choices play a vital role in preventing falls. Your shoes should offer solid support, fit properly, and have non-slip soles to provide stability. Balance issues, lower extremity weakness, or joint pain can also increase the risk of falls outside the home. A podiatrist can assess these factors, recommend supportive footwear, and suggest custom orthotics to improve balance. This foot doctor can address underlying foot conditions that might compromise your stability or suggest exercises and assistive devices to improve balance. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

When treating plantar fasciitis, custom orthotics offer a personalized approach that targets the specific needs of the patient. They provide support to the arch and cushioning the heel to alleviate pain. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are designed based on the individual’s foot structure and gait to ensure a more precise fit and long-term relief. Other treatments for plantar fasciitis include stretching exercises and anti-inflammatory medications. These methods focus on reducing inflammation and strengthening the muscles around the foot but may not address underlying biomechanical issues. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be recommended, though these options come with potential risks. Custom orthotics, by contrast, are non-invasive and aim to correct abnormal foot mechanics, often preventing the condition from worsening. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help to determine the best combination of treatments for effective pain relief and long-term recovery.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.