The foot is a complex structure designed to support your body and keep you moving with ease. It contains 28 bones that work together with strong ligaments, flexible tendons, and stable ankle joints to create balance and motion. These parts allow the foot to perform essential actions such as plantar flexion, which helps you point your toes and push off while walking. When any part of this structure becomes strained or injured, pain and mobility problems can follow. A podiatrist can evaluate how your bones, ligaments, and tendons are functioning, and provide treatment to restore proper movement and comfort. If you have sustained a foot injury or have difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and answer any questions you may have about foot anatomy.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. 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 Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists or rolls in a way that overstretches or tears the ligaments supporting the ankle joint. This often happens during sports, walking on uneven ground, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. The outer ligaments of the ankle are most frequently injured, leading to pain, swelling, and bruising. In more severe ankle sprains, surrounding tendons or cartilage can also be affected. A podiatrist can perform a physical exam to assess the extent of ligament damage and determine whether the injury involves torn tissue or a fracture. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or an MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and rule out or uncover other injuries. Treatment depends on the severity of the ligament damage and may involve immobilization, supportive devices, or surgery in serious cases. If you believe you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls in older adults often stem from both internal factors, such as poor balance or weakened muscles, and external factors like shoes that lack adequate support. The feet play a central role in stability, especially among the senior population. Even minor problems like corns, calluses, or loss of sensation from neuropathy can affect balance. Ill-fitting shoes, slippery soles, or loose flip-flops increase the risk of slipping. Stiff or worn-down footwear can alter gait and make it harder to react to uneven surfaces. Regular foot exams are important to detect changes in joint flexibility, arch collapse, or reduced feeling in the toes, which can interfere with safe walking. A podiatrist can evaluate foot strength and structure, prescribe custom orthotic inserts for support, and recommend footwear that improves balance and traction. If you have fallen or are at risk for falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and guidance.

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 one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.