Foot drop is a condition marked by having difficulty lifting or moving the foot and toes. The foot fails to lift properly, causing a gait that looks like marching. Foot drop typically stems from nerve injuries as the result of sports injuries, spinal issues like slipped discs, or neuropathies associated with conditions such as diabetes. Other causes of drop foot  include inherited conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or neurological disorders, such as stroke or multiple sclerosis. Treatment strategies for foot drop are multifaceted, depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Certain exercises can play an important role in strengthening and stretching muscles to improve function. In addition, braces, splints, or custom orthotics may offer external support and aid in maintaining proper foot positioning. In cases of permanent impairment, surgical joint fusion or nerve repair may be necessary. Electrical nerve stimulation devices also can offer promising therapeutic options, particularly for individuals affected by stroke or multiple sclerosis. If you have symptoms of foot drop, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis, followed by the appropriate treatment options. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. 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 our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Improper toenail trimming is a common culprit behind ingrown toenails, a painful condition that occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. The risk of ingrown toenails increases when toenails are trimmed improperly. This includes when toenails are cut too short, rounded at the corners, or not trimmed straight across. To trim toenails correctly and reduce the likelihood of ingrowth, you should follow a few simple steps. Firstly, soften the nails by soaking the feet in warm water for a few minutes. Using sanitized nail clippers, cut the nails straight across, avoiding curved edges. Ensure that the nails remain slightly longer than the skin at the nail's edge. Digging the clippers into the corners of the nails, or trying to create a rounded shape, will increase your chances of developing ingrown toenails. Adopting these toenail-trimming practices will help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet. If you suspect ingrowth, it is suggested you seek an appointment with a podiatrist, who can help you treat ingrown toenails and provide more prevention tips. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM of Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, the importance of wearing appropriate shoes often takes a backseat. However, the effect of choosing the right footwear for your workday cannot be overstated. The shoes you wear play a pivotal role in supporting your feet and maintaining overall well-being. Wearing ill-fitting or improper shoes can lead to a cascade of issues, from discomfort and fatigue to more severe problems like joint pain and posture issues. Investing in the right pair of shoes tailored to your work environment is an investment in your health and productivity. The correct shoes provide adequate support, preventing strain on your feet and lower limbs throughout the day. By prioritizing proper footwear, you not only enhance your physical comfort but also contribute to a more focused and effective work routine, setting the foundation for a successful and pain-free professional journey. If you experience any type of foot pain as a result of the shoes you wear while working, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment options.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Charcot-Marie-Tooth, or CMT disease, is a genetic condition that affects the peripheral nerves. It can be recognized by progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the arms and legs. The condition is named after Jean Charcot, Pierre Marie, and Howard Henry Tooth, the physicians who first described it. Symptoms of Charcot foot often begin in adolescence or early adulthood and may include weakness and wasting of muscles in the foot and lower leg, as well as a loss of sensation in toes, and lower limbs. Additional symptoms can include abnormalities in foot muscles, unstable ankles, cramping in lower legs, and reduced reflexes. Over time, symptoms may worsen, leading to increased muscle and joint pain, neuropathic pain, and walking and mobility problems. Assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, leg braces, special shoes, or orthopedic devices, play an essential role in managing Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of CMT, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive assessment and personalized care planning.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM of Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor 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 New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Experiencing Achilles tendon pain while running can be quite uncomfortable, and preventing injuries is essential. The Achilles tendon connects the major calf muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus, to the back of the heel bone. When it is subjected to excessive stress, it tightens and is forced to work too hard. This can lead to irritation or inflammation, which is commonly referred to as Achilles tendinitis. Over time, scar tissue, which is less flexible than the tendon, can develop on it. If the inflamed Achilles tendon continues to endure stress, it may tear or rupture, resulting in an Achilles heel injury. To address Achilles pain during running, the first step is to stop running when you feel discomfort. It is important to rest and seek professional advice from a podiatrist to assess the condition of your lower leg. Continuing to run with Achilles pain can potentially worsen the injury. If you are experiencing Achilles pain from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM of Rorick Podiatry, PC. 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 our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.