Items filtered by date: October 2024

Foot bone anatomy is essential for understanding how the foot supports movement and balance. The foot is divided into three main sections, which are the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. The hindfoot consists of the talus and calcaneus, or heel bone, which play a critical role in weight bearing and shock absorption during walking and running. The midfoot comprises five tarsal bones that provide flexibility and stability, allowing for efficient movement. The forefoot includes the metatarsals and phalanges, which are vital for balance and propulsion. Together, these sections work in harmony to absorb impact, support the body, and facilitate walking, running, and jumping. A strong understanding of foot bone anatomy helps in identifying potential issues and developing effective treatment strategies for foot-related problems. If you have developed a foot condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot problems.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Walking sticks can be an excellent tool for enhancing stability. They can reduce  the risk of falls, particularly for people who have balance problems or for those who walk on uneven surfaces. The additional points of contact with the ground provided by walking sticks can help distribute body weight. This reduces strain on the feet and alleviates pressure that might otherwise lead to pain or even injury. Walking sticks also promote better posture, which reduces foot fatigue during prolonged walks or hikes. When used correctly, walking sticks can assist in maintaining balance and controlling foot movements, which helps minimize slips and trips. It is important to adjust the walking sticks to your height to ensure they provide adequate support for your walking style. A podiatrist can evaluate your specific needs and guide you on whether walking sticks are appropriate for your foot health. If you need an assistive device for walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if walking sticks are right for you.

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 Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. 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 Vancouver, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Fabry disease is a rare genetic disorder caused by the buildup of a fat-like substance called globotriaosylceramide due to a deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A. This buildup affects various parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, nervous system, and skin. In terms of foot involvement, Fabry disease can cause burning pain, tingling, and numbness, primarily due to nerve damage, or neuropathy in the feet. This discomfort often becomes worse by physical activity or heat. Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure enzyme levels, genetic testing to confirm mutations, and tissue biopsies to detect GL-3 accumulation. Early diagnosis is imperative as symptoms can progress. If you have foot discomfort or neuropathy, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment to help relieve symptoms.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Sarah Urton, DPM from Kitsilano Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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