Eleanor Leinen was devastated when she learned she had type 2 diabetes. Learning she would have to wear special shoes that were unsightly and extremely expensive did not help the situation. Leinen refused to wear the shoes, which did not help her once the condition worsened causing her to develop her own diabetic shoe brand, Walk Another Way. “That started me on a mission to change the look of orthopedic and diabetic footwear for fashionable and trendy women,” Leinen stated.

Proper foot care is important for biomechanics of the feet, which incorporate the parts that manage the movement of your feet. To learn more, consider speaking to Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.

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 to the area.

Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.

Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. 

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Biomechanics and its related study deal with forces that act against the body and affect things like our movement. In podiatry, biomechanics are studied to determine the movement of the ankle, toes, and the foot, as well as the forces that impact them. Podiatrists who train in this specialty are able to effectively diagnose and treat conditions that affect people’s everyday movement.

Regardless of your lifestyle, age, or any other factors, many people experience foot problems throughout their lives. Twists and turns, improper balance, and added weight are just a few of the things that can add stress to the feet. These issues can also limit our bodies’ mobility that we often take for granted. Pain in the feet and ankles can also trickle up towards the lower legs, knees, hip, and even back area. This affects the way you move around on a daily basis.

The history of studying biomechanics dates back to ancient Egypt at around 3000 B.C., where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded. Throughout the centuries, advances in technology, science, and an understanding of the human body led to more accurate diagnosis of conditions such as corns for example. In 1974, biomechanics garnered a large audience when Merton Root claimed that changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot. He proposed that corrections of certain conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area. Due to his research, we still use his basic principle of foot orthotics to this day.

As technology has improved, so have the therapeutic processes that allow us to correct deficiencies in our natural biomechanics. Computers can now provide accurate readings of the forces, movements, and patterns of the foot and lower leg. Critical treatment options can be provided to patients now who suffer from problems that cause their biomechanics to not function naturally. The best results are now possible thanks to 3D modeling and computing technologies that can take readings and also map out what treatment will do to the affected areas.

These advanced corrective methods were able to come to light thanks to an increase in both the technologies surrounding biomechanics and also the knowledge of how they work naturally. For example, shoe orthotics is able to treat walking inabilities by realigning the posture deviations in patients caused by hip or back problems. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve movement and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. Speak with your podiatrist if you have any of these problems.

Why is shoe fitting important? Professional fitting for shoes can make a critical difference in how your feet perform in physical activity. Getting the right footwear also ensures maximum comfort and stability for your feet. Shoe experts can help assist with an analysis of your gait, the right size of shoes for your feet, and recommend an ideal brand and style for your specific feet. What shoe experts also take into consideration is your “fitness goals, previous footwear experiences,” exercise history, past or current injuries, and any other additional information. Fitted shoes can help with preventing injuries and also facilitate with the healing of current injuries.

Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, proper fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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The plantar fascia exists as a fibrous band that supports the foot’s arch. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is strained or torn, resulting in the area becoming swollen. Plantar fasciitis can be caused by several factors. Poorly-fitting shoes can contribute to the onset of plantar fasciitis, as well as a change in foot mechanics. Treatment options for plantar fasciitis involves resting the feet, DIY treatment at home, and physical therapy. Treating your plantar fasciitis immediately is optimal for ensuring that the condition does not become worse or chronic.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. For more information about your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

·     Excessive running

·     Non-supportive shoes

·     Overpronation

·     Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

·     Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices

·     Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis

·     Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

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While anyone can contract a nail fungus infection, certain people are more at risk. Older adults are at greater risk for developing nail fungus because of the reduced blood flow to the lower extremities. The elderly are also prone to slow-growing nails. Other people at risk include people who perspire heavily, such as athletes or construction workers. For unknown reasons, males seem to develop nail fungus more often than females do. Individuals with weakened immune systems or circulation troubles are also at greater risk.

While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, doing so is not impossible. For more information about your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments

Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.

Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well

Alternative Treatments

There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.  

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

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Blisters may look a little icky, but they serve the primary function of preventing infection when you’ve ruptured your skin’s cell tissue. Jordan D. Metzl, M.D., advises not popping a blister unless it is absolutely necessary, if the blister inhibits physical activity. Knowing how to pop your blister is important to prevent infection. You can do this by using a sterilized needle, then covering your popped blister with antibiotic ointment and waterproof bandages. Oxygen will also help speed up the healing of your blister. Opt for wearing comfortable socks and shoes during the process of healing.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. For more information about your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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Doctor K gives some special advice about how to take care of your feet at home with a DIY pedicure routine. Doctor K suggests soaking your feet in a basin of warm water, then rubbing a pumice stone against your feet skin to remove dead skin cells after drying thoroughly. Moisturize your toenails with lotion, then push the cuticles to the side instead of cutting them. Aftering clipping your toenails and cleaning underneath, moisturize with lotion. Apply nail polish, then disinfect your pedicure instruments with rubbing alcohol or peroxide.

Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Every Day Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.

For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.

Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

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Going barefoot can have various benefits for the feet, including better overall body balance. When barefoot, your feet aren’t confined to the width of your shoes, and your toes are able to spread and grow stronger. Your blood is able to circulate within your feet, and you gain better posture since shoes restrict your pelvic tilt. However, don’t forget to stick to simple precautions when you’re going barefoot as well. There are still the risks of picking up bacterial or fungal infections from wet surfaces or stepping on sharp objects. Wear shoes in cases where you may have an injury or infection on your feet, and opt for safe areas to walk barefoot.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Athlete’s foot is a common form of Tinea, a contagious skin disease that appears as small round patches. Tinea can be caused by fungi and it mostly affects the scalp and feet. Athlete’s foot occurs at least in one in every four adults, and can be contracted by contamination of public areas like pools or saunas. Infections may not usually be serious but can be passed on if your hands and feet are not properly protected in wet areas.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. 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. Speaking to your podiatrist will give you a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.

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

Read more about athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is an extremely contagious infection caused by a fungus that results in itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet. The fungus that causes athletes foot is known as tinea pedis and thrives in moist, dark areas such as shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, commons areas, public changing areas, bathrooms, dormitory style houses, locker rooms, and public swimming pools. Athlete’s foot is difficult to treat as well because of the highly contagious and recurrent nature of the fungus.

Tinea is the same fungus that causes ringworm, and is spread by direct contact with an infected body part, contaminated clothing, or by touching other objects and body parts that have been exposed to the fungus. Because the feet are an ideal place for tinea to grow, thrive, and spread, this is the most commonly affected area, but it is known to grow in other places. However, for obvious reasons, the term athlete’s foot describes tinea that grows strictly on the feet.

The most commonly infected body parts are the hands, groin, and scalp, as well as obviously the feet. Around 70% of the population suffer from tinea infections at some point in their lives, however not all of these cases are athlete’s foot. Just like any other ailment, some people are more likely to get it than others, such as people with a history of tinea infections or other skin infections, both recurring and non-recurring ones. On top of this, the extent to which a person experiences regrowth and recurrent tinea infections varies from person to person.

Sometimes people will not even know that they are infected with tinea or that they have athlete’s foot because of a lack of symptoms. However, most experience mild to moderate flaking, itching, redness, and burning. However, some of the more severe symptoms include cracking and bleeding skin, intense itching and burning, pain while walking or standing, and even blistering.

Because of the recurring nature of the tinea fungus and the athlete’s foot it causes, the best way to treat this condition is with prevention. While it is hard to completely avoid, you can take some preventative measures such as wearing flip flops or sandals in locker rooms and public showers to reduce contact with the floor. It also helps to keep clean, dry feet while allowing them to breathe. Using powders to keep your feet dry is a good idea, as well as keeping your feet exposed to light and cool air, as these are not desirable conditions for tinea to grow. If you do happen to get athlete’s foot, treating it with topical medicated creams, ointments or sprays will not only help eliminate it but also prevent it from coming back.