The feet and ankles are complex structures. The 26 bones, several muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together in harmony to achieve balance and mobility. There are three bones that are located in the ankle joint. These enable up-and-down movement, causing flexibility in the foot. Additionally, there are also three bones that are located in the foot and are known as the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. There is soft tissue and cartilage between the bones that hold them together which absorbs the impact of the body and provides stability to the body. There are 20 muscles that are found in each foot, and each group of muscles is responsible for various functions. The toes can lift and curl by using smaller muscles, and the peroneal tibial muscle controls the movement to the outside of the ankle. If you would like additional information about how the components of the feet work together, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide you with interesting foot facts.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot 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
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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The most common cause of blisters on the foot is friction, usually between the foot and the shoe. Damage to the top skin layer can cause it to separate, leaving space for fluid to protect the underlying layers. Walking in tight shoes or wearing shoes without socks are common causes of friction blisters. They are nature’s way of protecting skin that is in danger of being damaged. Most friction blisters do not need medical attention, and if protected by a bandage, they will likely heal on their own in a few days. However, if a blister becomes infected, this may cause redness and swelling, and the blister may fill with pus or blood rather than a clear fluid. At this point, it is wise to seek medical help from a podiatrist, who can examine the blister and offer treatment options. Certain medications and protective bandages may be prescribed. It will also be beneficial to cease wearing the shoes that caused the blister to form. For further guidance, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Brian Shwer, DPM of Southaven Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many people have endured injuries that leave wounds, and this can often affect the feet. Practicing good wound care techniques is essential in having the wound heal properly. Many wounds require the dressing to be changed several times per week, and it is helpful to follow specific procedures to ensure that this is properly done. It can begin with having a bag close by in which the old dressing and gloves can be disposed of. The wound is then cleaned by washing it with lukewarm water. This is followed by applying the new dressing, and making sure it completely covers the wound. If the wound emits an odor, or if the skin surrounding it becomes red and heated, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you on correct wound care treatment.
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 Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. 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 our office located in Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Athlete’s foot can be extremely uncomfortable. It is a foot condition that is caused by a fungal infection of the skin, and generally affects the toes and soles of the feet. The fungus that causes this condition lives in warm and moist environments, such as shower room floors and public swimming pools. Because the fungus is contagious, it is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas. Additionally, it is wise to refrain from sharing shoes, towels, and socks, as this may help to limit the spread of athlete’s foot. Research has indicated there are two types of athlete’s foot fungus. Trichophyton rubrum is classified as long-lasting and may often be recurring. Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a type of fungus that is found between the toes and is treatable, despite its severity. If you have itchy skin on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat athlete’s foot.
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 Brian Shwer, DPM from Southaven Foot Clinic. 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
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 Southaven, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
