Skiing places significant stress on the feet, with several bones playing a critical role in maintaining balance and control. The ankle is vital for flexibility and movement, allowing skiers to adjust their stance. The heel bone, or calcaneus, absorbs the impact from skiing and helps with stability. The navicular bone, located on the inner side of the foot, supports the arch and contributes to shock absorption. The forefoot, consisting of the metatarsals, bears much of the skier's weight, especially during turns and jumps. The toes provide balance and grip inside the ski boot, enabling precise control over the skis. Proper alignment and strength in these bones are important for preventing injuries and ensuring optimal performance on the slopes. If you have injured your foot while skiing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to protect your feet and ankles while enjoying your desired sport.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can stem from a variety of causes, including plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, and metatarsalgia. Plantar fasciitis is often characterized by sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. It is caused by inflammation of the tissue that connects your heel to your toes. Morton’s neuroma, on the other hand, involves a thickening of tissue around a nerve between the toes, causing burning or tingling sensations, or even a feeling like there’s a pebble in your shoe. Metatarsalgia refers to pain in the ball of the foot, often described as a bruising or aching sensation, which can worsen with activity. Treatments include rest, stretching exercises, custom orthotics, and in some cases, anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections. A podiatrist can offer a comprehensive diagnosis and recommend targeted treatments to alleviate pain. If you are struggling with foot discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, occurs when the arteries in your legs become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of fatty deposits, known as atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to the lower limbs, which can cause pain, cramping, or fatigue during activities like walking. PAD not only affects mobility, but can also worsen atherosclerosis over time. As blood flow decreases, tissues in the legs and feet receive less oxygen and nutrients, leading to slower healing, higher risks of infections, and even tissue damage, in severe cases. If you have diabetes or smoke, your risk of PAD and its complications increases significantly. Early detection and management of PAD can help slow the progression of atherosclerosis and protect your health. If you are experiencing leg pain, numbness, or wounds that are slow to heal, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and care.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A toenail falling off due to a fungal infection, known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi invade the nail bed. This causes the nail to thicken, discolor, and eventually separate from the nail bed. This condition often starts with mild symptoms like discoloration, white or yellow streaks, and a brittle texture. As the infection worsens, the nail may become painful, thickened, and eventually detach. Treatment for a fungal toenail infection typically involves antifungal medications, which can be topical, applied directly to the nail, or oral, prescribed by a doctor. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend laser treatment to target and eliminate the fungus. If the nail has already fallen off, additional treatments may be needed to protect the underlying nail bed and promote healthy regrowth. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, offer tailored treatment plans, and monitor progress. If you have had a toenail come off or are experiencing a toenail fungal infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment and care.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.