Items filtered by date: July 2023

Anyone with a second toe longer than the big toe has a condition known as Morton’s toe. This abnormality is generally the result of a congenital condition or a genetic disposition. Girls are more likely to have a Morton’s toe than boys. Morton’s toe is a misnomer, as the problem in bone structure is not in the toe, but in the first metatarsal beneath the big toe. This condition brings with it a host of foot problems, the most important of which is overpronation. This, in turn, can cause further problems with the feet, such as pain in the ball of the foot, Morton’s neuroma, and stress fractures in the metatarsals. Morton’s toe may also be responsible for weak ankles, shin splints, or tight calf muscles. An orthotic device that offers arch support and a metatarsal pad can help to relieve the cascading effects of Morton’s toe as it keeps the foot aligned. A change in footwear to shoes with a wide and roomy toe box also can relieve some discomfort. A surgical remedy is considered to be a last resort. For help with problems associated with Morton’s toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One of the most common causes of pain under the foot is a condition known as plantar fasciitis. Thought to be an overuse injury, plantar fasciitis is inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs from the toes to the heel. It is imperative to avoid further stress on the foot until the pain subsides, but at that point, a few simple exercises can help to overcome the ailment through stretching. The first exercise calls for sitting in a chair with one leg crossed over the opposite thigh. Gently pull the toes of the painful foot toward the shin with one hand, while slowly massaging the length of the sole of the foot with the other hand. Do this 10 times for 10 seconds each and repeat. If the plantar fasciitis is also in the other foot, change sides. Next, kneel on a mat with your toes tucked under and the heels facing upward, while supporting your weight on your hands. Sit up until you feel a gentle stretch. Hold for a minute and repeat three times. Do two sets. For further help with the pain of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Patients who have poor circulation may notice their feet are cold, regardless of the temperature in the room. Additionally, having swollen feet may also be a sign of poor circulation. This may be a result of reduced blood flow, possibly causing the kidneys to function improperly. People who are constantly tired may have poor circulation, which can come from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. A weakened immune system and poor circulation may be linked together, possibly improving with regular exercise. Poor circulation can cause the scalp to become dry, and may lead to a gradual loss of hair. Patients who are afflicted with this condition may notice their nails are affected, as they can become fragile and break easier. If you have the above symptoms and your feet are affected, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat poor circulation.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Athlete’s foot is a pesky kind of foot condition in which the skin between the toes becomes irritated and flaky due to a fungal infection. Interestingly, athlete's foot is contagious because the fungal infection can spread from one person to another. There is a very particular way in which an athlete’s foot infection spreads between people. Namely, when an individual with athlete’s foot walks barefoot on a surface, they leave behind fungal spores. These spores can attach to many things such as shoes, clothes, furniture, and more. When another person comes into contact with these spores, they can also contract the fungal infection. If you have athlete's foot or are looking to protect yourself from developing it, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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