Many joints in the body can sometimes crack, and this can be common in the back and neck. The toes are no exception. Sometimes, when the joints in the toes crack, it is generally harmless. However, other times, cracking in the toes may be a sign of something more serious. Cracking of the joints in the toes is referred to as crepitus. This may be indicative of a more serious condition, possibly arthritis, or a kind of foot fracture or toe injury. Conversely, when cracking in the toes is harmless, it may be explained by cavitation. Cavitation is defined as a vacuum that forms in the fluid surrounding a joint. If you are someone that experiences frequent toe cracking, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.
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 Shreveport, Bossier City, and Natchitoches, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout is a form of arthritis that can be extremely painful. Gout occurs as crystals that form in the joints of the big toe from consuming purine-rich foods. These foods include red meat, shellfish, and drinks that contain large amounts of sugar. These purines convert to uric acid, and an abundance of uric acid can cause the big toe to become inflamed. The toe may turn red and become swollen, causing the skin to pull tightly surrounding the affected joint. Many people make lifestyle choices that may lead to developing gout. Being overweight, drinking excess alcohol, and eating foods laden with purines may contribute to the onset of gout. There may be existing health conditions like high blood pressure or thyroid disorders that can lead to increased uric acid levels. If you have had one or many gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this uncomfortable condition.
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Natchitoches, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
An abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe is a sign of hammertoe, a deformity caused by a weakening of the muscles, tissue, and tendon in the joint. A hammertoe also can be the result of arthritis or a genetic predisposition to joint problems. Trauma, injury, or improper footwear may also be factors in the formation of a hammertoe. Symptoms include pain when flexing the toe or wearing shoes. The toe may also become reddened. In many cases of hammertoe, a corn or callus develops on the raised portion of the joint as it rubs against the inside of a shoe. When trying to determine the best way to deal with a hammertoe, a podiatrist may take X-rays to determine the toe’s current bone and ligament structure. In some cases, taping and padding of the toe can reduce painful effects. Anti-inflammatory or cortisone injections also can lessen the discomfort in some cases. Orthotic devices and surgery are other options for hammertoe treatment. For more information on dealing with a hammertoe deformity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
Pain in the affected toes
Development of corns or calluses due to friction
Inflammation
Redness
Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Natchitoches, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
People who have had a corn on their foot are often bewildered by the amount of pain and discomfort this small hardened area of skin can cause. A corn develops as a result of excess friction that can be caused by the shoes or socks that are worn. They may also develop from having an underlying bone condition, or possibly from a misaligned toe joint. Hard corns can form on the side of the pinky toe, and soft corns are found between the toes. There is another type of corn that grows on the sole of the foot, referred to as seed corns. Some people find temporary relief by placing a protective covering over the corn, in addition to wearing shoes that fit correctly. Mild corns may be treated topically by using prescribed medicine, or it may require minor surgery for permanent removal. If you have a corn on your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer a treatment method that is correct for you.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them? Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
Well-fitting socks
Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Natchitoches, LA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
