The biomechanics of the foot describe how the foot moves and absorbs force with each step. When the foot lands, it must support the body’s weight, adapt to the ground, and push off smoothly for the next step. This process relies on many small bones working together with muscles, ligaments, and tendons to create balance and stability. If any part of this system is not functioning properly, it can lead to pain, poor alignment, or strain in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, identify imbalances, and recommend treatments or custom orthotics that improve how your foot moves. If you have foot pain or are noticing changes in the way you walk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. 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 one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Preventing falls at home begins with creating a safe and supportive environment. Start by checking all walking surfaces to ensure they are even, dry, and free of loose rugs. Good lighting is essential and helps you see obstacles clearly, especially in hallways and stair areas. Rearranging furniture to open pathways and removing clutter can greatly reduce the risk of tripping. Falls can lead to foot conditions, such as sprains, fractures, heel pain, and tendon injuries that may worsen without proper care. A podiatrist can evaluate any foot or ankle injury, improve stability, recommend supportive footwear, and provide fall prevention guidance tailored to your needs. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat these types of injuries, and guide you on additional fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of heel pain. It occurs when the strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes irritated at its attachment to the heel bone. This fascia helps support the arch and absorbs stress during walking, running, or standing. When excessive tension develops, microtears form in the fascia. The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp or throbbing pain that is often worse with the first steps after rest. Although sometimes referred to as heel spur syndrome, the pain is not caused by a bone spur, but by inflammation of the plantar fascia itself. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, repetitive stress from sports, and biomechanical issues like overpronation. A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate gait, and suggest a variety of management solutions. Included are custom orthotics, immobilization, injections, and specific exercises. When conservative methods fail, surgery may be an option. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tophi are firm deposits that develop beneath the skin when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, often as a complication of long-standing gout. In the feet, tophi may develop around the toes, ankles, or Achilles tendon, creating swollen lumps that can interfere with movement, and cause pain if inflamed. Over time, untreated tophi can damage cartilage, tendons, and other soft tissues, making it difficult to walk comfortably and leading to stiffness or deformity. In some cases, the skin may become stretched and break open, leaking chalky material made of uric acid. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of joint involvement to determine treatment. Options include reducing the size of the tophi or removing them surgically if they impair function. Surgery may also be considered if tophi are particularly large or threaten joint health. If you have developed tophi from gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A rupture of the Achilles tendon, the strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often causes sudden pain in the back of the ankle and difficulty pushing off the foot. An Achilles tendon rupture usually occurs during activities that involve a quick change in direction or an explosive push from the foot. When the tendon tears, patients often describe hearing or feeling a “pop,” followed by swelling and weakness when standing on the toes. A podiatrist can diagnose this injury through a physical exam and imaging tests to confirm the extent of the rupture. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear and can involve immobilization with a boot or surgery to repair the tendon. Early, controlled movement during recovery helps maintain strength and flexibility while reducing the chance of re-injury. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM of Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.