There are many moving parts each foot is made of. There are 26 bones along with several joints, tendons, and muscles that work together that enable the body to walk, run, and balance. Approximately one-quarter of all the bones that are in the body are located in the feet. Each toe has three joints, and the big toe has two joints. The calcaneus is considered to be the largest bone in the foot, and it forms the heel bone. The muscles provide the ability to move the feet, and each group of muscles provides a different function. The largest ligament in the foot is known as the plantar fascia, and it connects the heel to the toes. The Achilles tendon has the ability to provide mobility to the foot, and if an injury happens to this tendon, walking is often impaired. If you would like additional information about various components of the foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can give you interesting and useful knowledge.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. 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 office located in Duryea, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Healthy feet allow seniors to stay independent longer. Foot care is essential to reaching this goal and keeping senior feet comfortable and healthy. Since the feet take one through a lifetime of mobility, it stands to reason that aging feet need extra attention. Over time, feet become flatter and wider. The fatty padding on the foot naturally wears down, and the bones and joints are exposed to more wear and tear. Simple foot problems, like blisters, can interfere with mobility and balance in older adults. More serious foot conditions, like ingrown toenails, sprains, or fractures, can increase the risk of falling and result in various health conditions. Simple foot care tips to help keep feet as healthy as possible include washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, trimming nails straight across, and examining the feet for abnormalities, such as sores. Wearing properly fitted shoes that are sturdy and low-heeled is recommended. If you are an older person or taking care of one, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist among the doctors you visit to monitor any problems brewing and continue caring for the feet.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, causes the nails to thicken, separate, and discolor. It is an affliction that is difficult to remove and stop from recurring. It is also contagious and can spread to other body parts and people directly exposed to it. Laser treatment uses concentrated light to help kill fungus and prevent its growth. This treatment started in the 1980s, and newer types of laser treatment have been introduced since then. Those who may benefit most from laser treatment for nail fungus include children, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions or problems with medication intolerances. The cost and number of sessions vary, as does insurance coverage. If you have a stubborn case of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to discuss laser treatment as an option.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

A rare condition that is known as erythromelalgia can cause a consistent, intense burning sensation in the feet. It can alter the quality of life, despite the fact it is not a fatal condition. Additional symptoms that are associated with this condition can include swelling, tenderness, and a burning feeling that can radiate to the entire foot. The symptoms often affect both feet and can be severe. This condition may develop from genetic reasons, and can happen as attacks. They can begin with itching, and may progress to severe pain. These attacks can be triggered by warm weather, sweating, exercise, or being immobile for long periods of time. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who  can properly diagnose and prescribe medication that may help the symptoms of erythromelalgia. 

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of David A. Scalzo, DPM, PC and Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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