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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 Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. 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 Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pain on the top of the foot can be a frustrating issue, often linked to several possible causes, including tendonitis, stress fractures, or arthritis. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons in the foot become inflamed due to overuse or wearing improper footwear, resulting in sharp, throbbing pain. Stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bones, usually develop from repetitive stress and can cause consistent discomfort, especially with increased activity. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can lead to pain when bone spurs form in the joints. A podiatrist will first ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam to assess whether the pain is sharp, dull, or worsened by certain activities. An X-ray or an MRI scan may be ordered to detect the cause. Ignoring this type of foot pain can lead to further problems. If you have unexplained pain on the top of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain can arise from various causes that affect your mobility and quality of life. Common sources of ankle pain include sprains, strains, fractures, and conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which connect bones, are overstretched or torn. A strain involves damage to muscles or tendons in the ankle joint. Fractures are breaks in the bone, often resulting from trauma. Other causes, like gout or infections, can lead to severe swelling and pain. Flatfoot disorder and rheumatoid arthritis are also linked to ankle pain, often worsening over time. Managing ankle pain early is important to avoid further injury. A podiatrist can diagnose these conditions through physical exams and imaging studies, followed by a treatment plan to reduce pain and prevent complications. If you are suffering from ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often affects the feet and results in severe pain, redness, swelling, and stiffness. Gout commonly affects the big toe, but it can also target the ankles and any of the many other foot joints. Gout can be triggered by a diet high in purines, which are found in red meats and certain seafood. Alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications are other common factors. People with a kidney condition or who take diuretics for blood pressure control are at a higher risk. During a gout flare-up, the affected area may become hot and extremely sensitive to touch, making everyday activities challenging. Although gout is not curable, it can be managed with the help of a podiatrist through guidance on minimizing future flare-ups. This may include addressing risk factors, such as dietary habits, and prescribing medication to lower uric acid levels. If you are experiencing flare ups of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.